The 2025 rankings for the best rye whiskeys have been announced, showcasing a diverse range of flavors, from spicy and bold to sweet and complex. This year’s list highlights a move toward balance, with distillers embracing nuanced profiles and innovative cask finishes.
Top Contenders for Rye Whiskey Fans
The list’s top performers reveal a continuing appreciation for classic rye character, though with a sharper focus on quality and refinement. Hudson Rye Calvados Cask 7 Year Old takes the 25th spot, offering a surprisingly delicate spice balanced by the subtle apple notes of calvados. Nevada’s Minden Mill Nevada Straight Rye secures 24th, representing an up-and-coming Estate Distillery. Other notable mentions include Stellum Spirits Romulus Rye Whiskey (23rd), with its distinctive ‘Star Trek’ label, Old Forester 117 Series: Bottled in Bond Rye (22nd), and Still Austin 2025 Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey Aged 4 Years (21st).
Cask-Finished Delights
Several cask-finished ryes impressed this year. The Blue Note Honey Rye Cask (18th) and Lost Lantern Honey Rye Cask (16th) exemplify the influence of honey maturation, delivering sweet notes without masking the rye’s inherent spice. Woodinville Straight Rye Whiskey Aged 8 Years (17th) stands out with its exceptionally dark color and robust flavor profile. An unexpected release, Bruichladdich The Laddie Rye 7 Year Old (15th), broadened the appeal of Scotch whisky into the rye category.
Independent Bottlers Shine
The importance of independent bottlers continues to be recognized. Lost Lantern Honey Rye Cask (16th), once again, demonstrated the impact of careful cask selection. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Specialty Barrel: Chinquapin Oak Rye (13th) highlighted the unique characteristics of Chinquapin oak, contributing to a complex and layered flavor.
Kentucky Ryes
Kentucky distilleries remained prominent. Calumet Farm High Rye Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (11th) continued to demonstrate its robust rye character, while Pinhook Vertical Series 9 Year Rye (10th), part of its annual series, showcased the distillery’s dedication to long maturation. Sagamore Cask Strength Rye Whiskey (9th), aged at least seven years, offers a bold and intense experience, while Old Overholt Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey Aged 12 Years (8th) provided a deep, rich flavor.
The Top of the List
Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (4th) solidified its position as a benchmark for American rye, offering a complex and balanced profile. Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof (5th) continues to provide an affordable yet flavorful option. Michter’s 10 Year Old Single Barrel Rye (6th) concluded the top three, demonstrating the distillery’s consistent ability to create exceptional rye whiskies.
