Elijah Craig has just introduced a new and exciting addition to its distinguished lineup of whiskeys: Elijah Craig Toasted Rye. This release is a testament to the brand's enduring legacy of innovation and quality in the world of American whiskey. Named after the 18th-century distiller who pioneered the use of charred oak barrels, Elijah Craig continues to honor its namesake by pushing the boundaries of barrel aging and flavor development.
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Elijah Craig, often referred to as the "Father of Bourbon," made history in 1789 when he became the first distiller to use charred oak barrels for aging his spirits. This groundbreaking technique imparted a unique flavor profile to the whiskey, setting the stage for what would become a defining characteristic of bourbon. Today, the Elijah Craig brand, produced by the legendary Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, continues this tradition of barrel innovation with the introduction of Elijah Craig Toasted Rye.
This new offering is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey with a twist. The process begins with fully matured Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, which boasts a mashbill of 51% rye, 35% corn, and 14% malted barley. This carefully crafted rye whiskey is then re-entered at barrel proof into custom-toasted new oak barrels. These secondary barrels, designed in collaboration with Independent Stave Company, undergo a unique toasting process. The barrels are slow-cooked at a lower temperature than industry standards and then flash-charred. This method imparts softer milk chocolate characteristics and a creamy mouthfeel to the whiskey, setting it apart from other finished ryes on the market.
From the moment the whiskey is poured into a snifter, its distinct aroma and flavor profile become evident. The copper-toned liquid exudes a pronounced nuttiness, reminiscent of roasted chestnuts, walnuts, and hot candied almonds often found on city sidewalks. As you take a sip, the characteristic caraway spice of rye is enveloped in a creamy coating of milk chocolate, culminating in a firm, satisfying finish. The custom toasting process of the secondary barrels also contributes to the whiskey's aroma, which features notes of toasted oak, crème brûlée, almond, and hazelnut. These elements combine to create a soft, warm finish with lingering spices that leave a lasting impression.
Max Stefka, the product director for Elijah Craig, highlighted the special nature of this new expression. "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," Stefka said. "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." This sentiment captures the essence of what makes Elijah Craig Toasted Rye a standout in the brand's portfolio.
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is set to be released nationally later this July, with a suggested retail price of $54.99. This highly anticipated release comes four years after the launch of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon, which quickly gained popularity among whiskey enthusiasts. The new Toasted Rye is expected to follow in its predecessor's footsteps, attracting both longtime fans of the brand and newcomers to the world of rye whiskey.
Heaven Hill Distillery, the home of Elijah Craig, has a storied history and a reputation for excellence. Recently, it was recognized as the most-awarded U.S. distillery at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This accolade is a testament to the distillery's commitment to quality and innovation. With the introduction of Elijah Craig Toasted Rye, Heaven Hill continues to build on its legacy, offering whiskey lovers a new and exciting expression to explore.
The Elijah Craig brand has garnered numerous accolades over the years for its various line extensions. Most recently, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923, A124, and Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel received Double Platinum designation at the 2024 ASCOT Awards. In 2023, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B523 won a gold medal from the Bartender Spirits Awards and was named the World's Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine's World Whiskies Awards. Whisky Advocate named Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B517 its "Whisky of the Year" in 2017. These awards underscore the brand's dedication to producing high-quality, innovative whiskeys that resonate with both critics and consumers alike.
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is more than just a new bottle; it represents the brand's commitment to continuous innovation and excellence. By combining traditional rye spiciness with the creamy sweetness derived from the custom-toasted barrels, this whiskey offers a unique and memorable tasting experience. Whether you're a long-time fan of Elijah Craig or new to the brand, Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is a must-try. As it arrives on shelves later this month, it promises to become a cherished addition to any whiskey enthusiast's collection, embodying the rich history and forward-thinking spirit of Elijah Craig.
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About Elijah Craig
Elijah Craig is a well-respected and historic bourbon brand with roots dating back to the late 18th century. The brand is named after Reverend Elijah Craig, a Baptist minister and a key figure in the early days of American whiskey production. Legend has it that Elijah Craig was credited with the invention of bourbon, specifically the process of aging the spirit in charred oak barrels, contributing to its distinct flavor.
Produced by Heaven Hill Brands, Elijah Craig is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The brand's bourbons are crafted using a mash bill primarily composed of corn, along with rye and malted barley, adhering to traditional bourbon-making methods. The whiskey undergoes a meticulous aging process in new charred oak barrels, allowing it to develop its rich and complex flavor profile.
One of Elijah Craig's notable offerings is its Small Batch Bourbon, which is a blend of carefully selected barrels. This expression is praised for its balance of sweet, spicy, and oaky notes, showcasing the brand's dedication to consistency and excellence. Elijah Craig also produces other expressions, including Single Barrel releases and limited-edition offerings, which allow whiskey enthusiasts to explore different facets of the brand's portfolio.
In recent years, Elijah Craig has received acclaim in the whiskey community and has earned numerous awards for its exceptional bourbons. The brand's commitment to preserving tradition while adapting to contemporary tastes has contributed to its enduring popularity. Elijah Craig bourbons are often sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike, making them a significant presence in the world of American whiskey. The iconic and straightforward bottle design, with a small, embossed image of Reverend Elijah Craig, pays homage to the brand's historical roots and legacy.
