Whisky is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages and is served in a variety of ways in countries around the world. There are many types of whiskeys that have their origins in places as varied as Scotland and Canada, but rye whisky in particular is finding a new audience that appreciates its unique flavors. If you have a small bar at home and looking to add a new bottle or two, read on for just a few reasons why rye merits some serious consideration.

Distinctive Taste

Many people are familiar with the malt-forward flavor of Scotch whisky, as well as the smoother, smoky notes of Bourbon, which must be made with corn as its main grain. But if you are looking to shake things up and experience some different-tasting notes, rye whisky is the way to go. Rye is often described as "spicier" than either Scotch or Bourbon, and many bottles feature primary notes of pepper, fruit, and oak. Many regular rye drinkers also report secondary notes that include baking spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon.

Versatility

No one wants to invest in a bottle that can only be consumed in a single way. A beverage that is limited in its versatility may sit on a home bar shelf or counter for years past its prime and ultimately end up being a wasteful purchase. Luckily, rye is an extremely versatile liquor that can be consumed straight, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. In fact, many of the most popular classic and modern cocktails feature rye as the primary component: the Sazerac, Old Fashioned, and Manhattan are just three examples of bar favorites that you can make at home with a bottle of rye and a handful of other ingredients.

Value

While rye whisky has a long and prestigious history (George Washington himself distilled rye whisky at his estate in Mount Vernon), it had become less popular by the latter half of the twentieth century. And although rye has been making something of a comeback in recent years, many experts in the spirit industry agree that it is still under the radar. As such, rye represents a truly incredible value when it comes to taste and quality. Rather than overpay for another bottle of average wine, think about exploring the world of rye whisky with a bottle from a respected distiller in the U.S. or Canada.

For more information, contact a local company, like Millstone.