Whiskey is a well-known alcoholic beverage enjoyed worldwide, made through the fermentation and distillation of various grains such as malt, barley, rye, corn, and wheat. There are numerous types of whiskeys available, including rye whiskey, which can cause confusion among consumers. This article aims to clarify the differences between whiskey and rye whiskey.
Whiskey
Whiskey, or whisky as it is called in the UK, can be made from many different grains, leading to variations in strength and taste. Scotch, the finest whisky originating from Scotland, is renowned worldwide, along with Canadian and American whiskeys. Regardless of the grain base, the fundamental process of whiskey production involves fermenting the grain mash, distilling it, and aging the product in wooden oak casks.
Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey is made through the fermentation of a grain called rye. However, another whiskey from Canada is also called rye whiskey, even if it may not have been made using rye. For a whiskey to be labeled as American rye whiskey, it must consist of at least 51% rye in the grain mash. Additional requirements include distillation proof up to 160 and aging in charred barrels. Most importantly, rye must be the predominant grain mash for a whiskey to be called rye whiskey.
Key Takeaways
- Rye whiskey is typically spicier and fruitier in smell and flavor compared to other whiskeys, such as malt or barley whiskey.
- Rye whiskey is more popular in the US and Canada and must contain at least 51% rye in the grain mash to be labeled as such.
- Whiskey is a generic term, while rye whiskey specifically refers to whiskey made with the rye grain.
