Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey (750Ml)

Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey is a classic bottled-in-bond rye that bartenders have trusted for years. It first hit shelves in 1934, right as Prohibition ended. The name comes from Rittenhouse Square, a historic park in Philadelphia. Back then it was sold as a choice Pennsylvania rye.

Today Heaven Hill makes it in Bardstown, Kentucky, in that old Pennsylvania style. The mash is 51% rye, 35% corn and 14% malted barley. The corn gives it a rounder, softer side than many ryes.

Bottled in bond means a strict set of rules. The whiskey comes from one distiller and one distilling season. It ages at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse and is bottled at exactly 100 proof. This bottle carries a four year age statement.

In the glass it shows a deep mahogany color. The nose offers dried fruit, toffee and sweet peppers. The palate is clean and rich, with cocoa, citrus, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla. A maple-like spice lingers on the finish.

Rittenhouse has a long run of praise. It was named North American Whiskey of the Year at the 2006 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Wine Enthusiast gave it 95 points in 2016. It also won Double Gold and Consumers’ Choice at the 2021 SIP Awards.

You can sip it neat, but it really shines in a Manhattan, Old Fashioned or Sazerac. The 100 proof strength stands up to vermouth and bitters without fading. If you want a rye whiskey that works hard behind the bar, this is the one to stock. It also makes a fine, low-cost pour for an easy night at home.