The new expression that adds creamy milk chocolate layers to the spice of Elijah Craig Straight Rye through a unique custom toasted barrel process.
Fast Facts About Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Rye
- Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is a new expression that adds creamy milk chocolate layers to the spice of Elijah Craig Straight Rye through a unique custom toasted barrel process.
- The whiskey is finished in custom toasted new oak barrels designed with Independent Stave Company, retaining its status as Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.
- Available nationally by late July 2024, Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is priced at $54.99 and follows the success of the Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon.
New Expression Adds Sweet Complexity with Custom Toasted Barrels
BARDSTOWN, Ky. (July 17, 2024) – Elijah Craig, renowned for its premium American whiskeys, proudly announces the launch of Elijah Craig Toasted Rye. This latest innovation continues the legacy of Elijah Craig, who in 1789 was credited as the ‘Father of Bourbon’ for being the first to char oak barrels. The new Toasted Rye expression infuses creamy milk chocolate layers into the signature spice of Elijah Craig Straight Rye.
Innovative Barrel Finishing Process
The creation of Elijah Craig Toasted Rye begins with fully matured Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, which is then re-entered at barrel proof into a second custom toasted new oak barrel. Designed in collaboration with Independent Stave Company, these barrels undergo a unique toasting process, culminating in a high-temperature phase that embeds phenols into the barrel surface, adding a smoky element to the rye’s spice and sweetness. Unlike many other finished whiskeys, this process retains the classification of Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey since the secondary barrel is both new and charred.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye greets with aromas of toasted oak, crème brûlée, almond, and hazelnut. The palate reveals notes of milk chocolate and subtle baking spices, complemented by a creamy mouthfeel. The finish is soft and warm, with lingering spices.
Expert Insights
Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director, stated, “From the moment our tasting panel tried Elijah Craig Toasted Rye through our ongoing innovation process, we knew this expression was going to be special. The custom toasted barrel from our partners at Independent Stave Company takes an already world-class whiskey and adds in a dessert-like bouquet of flavors.”
Traditional American Rye Mashbill
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is crafted with a mashbill of 51% rye, 35% corn, and 14% malted barley. This traditional American Straight Rye Whiskey relies heavily on corn as the secondary grain, a method adopted by Kentucky Bourbon distilleries post-Prohibition. The secondary barrel finishing period adds balanced toastiness to the classic rye spice.
Availability and Pricing
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye Whiskey will be available nationally by late July, priced at $54.99. The bottle features a distinctive dark green label with the toasted rye designation prominently displayed. This release follows the success of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon, also available at $54.99.
Accolades and Awards
Elijah Craig has earned numerous accolades, including Double Platinum designations at the 2024 ASCOT Awards for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923, A124, and Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel. The brand also won multiple gold medals at the Bartender Spirits Awards and Whisky Magazine’s World Whiskies Awards.
About Elijah Craig Bourbon
Elijah Craig is celebrated as “The Father of Bourbon” for pioneering the use of charred oak barrels. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the largest independent, family-owned distillery in the U.S., Elijah Craig’s lineup includes various acclaimed expressions. The distillery supports the hospitality industry through initiatives like Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, donating over $400,000 to date. For more information, visit ElijahCraig.com.
Experience the latest innovation from Elijah Craig with the launch of Toasted Rye Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and tradition.
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