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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye: The New Standard in American Whiskey

In December 2025, Elijah Craig, a renowned name in premium American whiskies, celebrated a significant achievement. Their latest offering, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye, was named Whisky Advocate's 2025 Whisky of the Year. This prestigious title is a testament not only to the product's exceptional quality but also to Elijah Craig's longstanding commitment to excellence within the whiskey industry.

This is the first year a rye whiskey has received this esteemed accolade, underscoring the historic significance of this recognition—for both the brand and the rye whiskey category. As a symbol of excellence, this award follows in the footsteps of previous accolades, including the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon, which captured the same honor in 2017.

The Journey to Whisky of the Year

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye debuted in September 2025, marking it as the first-ever Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey from the brand's collection. The whiskey is a showcase of superior craftsmanship, with its intricate flavors and bold character reflecting the meticulous selection process guided by Master Distiller Conor O'Driscoll.

The aging process, which lasted 12 years and 3 months, further refined its flavor profile, which is bottled at 108 proof. This uncut, non-chill filtered whiskey quickly garnered acclaim from enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, heralding it as a standout selection amongst its peers.

According to Max L. Shapira, Executive Chairman of Heaven Hill Brands, receiving this award in the year of their 90th anniversary adds an extra layer of significance. He emphasized how this recognition serves as a tribute to the dedication of generations of craftsmen who have shaped the course of Heaven Hill Distillery.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors

Each sip of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye reveals a delightful medley of baking spices, inviting gingerbread notes, and deep molasses undertones, culminating in a palate bursting with stewed fruits and warm cinnamon. The finish is long and satisfying, marked by hints of nutmeg and a robust rye spice, indicative of the whiskey's careful aging and discerning barrel selection.

In the words of Max Stefka, AVP Global Whiskey Brands for Heaven Hill, the team feels privileged to see their first Barrel Proof Rye celebrated at such a high level. The award serves as a proud milestone for everyone involved in the whiskey's creation.

A Legacy of Quality

The Elijah Craig name pays homage to the Reverend Elijah Craig, who is often celebrated as “The Father of Bourbon.” Craig was the pioneer distiller who first aged his whiskey in charred oak barrels, a development that transformed unaged corn liquor into the rich and smooth bourbon we adore today.

Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the Elijah Craig family includes various offerings like Elijah Craig Small Batch, Elijah Craig Straight Rye, and Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon. The brand has built its reputation around attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality, helping to define what makes American whiskey unique.

Availability and Pricing

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye is available in 750 ml bottles at a suggested retail price of $74.99, making it accessible to whiskey lovers nationwide. As it embarks on this new chapter, the brand's commitment to producing whiskeys in their purest, most distinctive form promises a bright future for both Elijah Craig and the American whiskey landscape.

For anyone seeking the epitome of craftsmanship paired with flavor, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye stands as a celebrated achievement and a refreshing addition to any whiskey collection.