Redemption’s New Sur Lee Rye Whiskey Embraces Old World Winemaking Technique

Sur Lee Rye Whiskey first-of-its-kind whiskey draws inspiration from the French winemaking process, known as Sur Lie, to create a richer, deeper and more complex profile.

Fast Facts about Redemption Sur Lee Rye Whiskey:

  • Style: Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Mashbill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Proof: 94 (47% ABV)
  • Age: NAS
  • Price: $59.99
  • Availability: Nationwide

Full Details on Redemption Sur Lee Rye Whiskey:

Redemption Whiskey welcomes the award-winning Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey into its highly sought after Specialty Series. This first-of-its-kind whiskey draws inspiration from the French winemaking process, known as Sur Lie, to create a richer, deeper and more complex profile. This approach represents the perfect balance between innovation and tradition by pushing boundaries, while restoring the legacy of rye whiskey.

Redemption’s unique take on the Sur Lie process, influencing winemaking for over 500 years, begins with Redemption’s classic pre-Prohibition rye mash bill that boasts an impressive 95% rye content. Breaking from conventional whiskey-making norms, Redemption adds the flavorful backset that comes off the still during distillation, called the “whiskey lees,” into the barrels before aging. By periodically rotating the barrels during the aging process, the “lees” and whiskey continually interact, naturally infusing the whiskey with even more character. The “Sur Lee” method intensifies the rye’s complexity to further enhance and develop the whiskey. Before bottling, Sur Lee is non-chill filtered to maintain optimal flavors and aromas. The result is a dimensional whiskey with a floral upfront, nutty backdrop and decadent, buttery notes of toasted marshmallow, maple and nutmeg, balanced with a lingering spicy finish.

“Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey represents a bold step forward in rye whiskey innovation,” said Alan Kennedy, Redemption’s Master Blender. “By integrating the Sur Lie method, we’ve crafted a whiskey that not only honors our classic pre-Prohibition rye mash bill but also pushes the boundaries of what rye can be. I’m excited to offer fans a whiskey that truly redefines the category with its unexpected take on aging.”

“When I first conceived of Redemption Sur Lee, I was not sure what to expect,” said Tom Steffanci, President of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, which produces Redemption. “After tasting the first batch I was blown away and we expect the same excitement from Redemption fans as they get the opportunity to enjoy it. Sur Lee is unlike any rye whiskey on the market today and we’re so proud to share it with existing fans and new drinkers alike. I’m not sure we made enough, so get it while you can.”

Redemption Sur Lee is exceptionally smooth and best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. It pairs perfectly with savory dishes, such as steaks, aged cheeses and roasted vegetables, or desserts such as chocolate or hazelnut treats, and classics like pecan or derby pie.

Redemption Sur Lee Rye Whiskey Tasting Notes:

  • AROMA: Floral upfront with nutty, woody undertones
  • TASTE: Round, rich, and soft with nutty, buttery notes balanced with umami flavor
  • FINISH: Sweetness with hints of pie crust, sweet pine, vanilla and dried fig

Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey begins rolling out nationwide both in store and online at ReserveBar.com (with the exception of some states) in late August with a suggested retail price of $59.99 for a 750mL bottle. The bottle design features a silkscreen label and metallic accents that visually convey Sur Lee’s groundbreaking process. For the wine-lovers looking to expand into the whiskey category or the whiskey connoisseur’s next acquisition – and everyone in between – Sur Lee is the perfect gift to unwrap.

For more information about Redemption Sur Lee or Redemption Specialty Series portfolio, visit RedemptionWhiskey.com or follow them on Instagram at @RedemptionWhiskey.

About Redemption:

Redemption is leading the rye revival, with a full range of bold and spicy super-premium award-winning whiskeys that are masterfully aged and blended. Nearly lost for a century, modern drinkers are rediscovering rye’s spicy, rebellious nature, complex enough to be enjoyed neat, with a strong enough backbone to stand up in cocktails. It is a classic American comeback story, one that is only just beginning as Redemption continually pushes boundaries – and expectations – in whiskey innovation. Redemption was awarded a 2023 Growth Brands Spirits award in the Fast Track category from the Beverage Information Group/EPG Brand Acceleration, the 2022 World’s Best Bourbon (2022 San Francisco Spirits Awards) and is the 2021 Rye Whiskey Brand of the Year according to the NY International Spirits Competition.

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