Rye whiskey holds a special place in the hearts of whiskey lovers, offering a unique, spicy kick that sets it apart from other spirits. Whether you're a seasoned rye enthusiast or just starting your journey, finding the best rye whiskey at each price point is essential. In this post, we guide you through our top rye whiskey picks across five different price categories, ensuring that no matter your budget, you can enjoy a great rye.
The Rules
To create this list, we’ve broken down our selections into five price categories:
- Under $25
- $25 to $50
- $50 to $80
- $80 to $120
- Over $120
These categories reflect a range of budgets and give a good overview of what's available in the rye whiskey market. We’ve compiled these picks based on our extensive experience reviewing over 400 whiskies on the Film & Whiskey podcast, focusing on both taste and value. Let’s dive into the selections!
The Picks
Under $25: Old Overholt 100 Proof
Finding a good rye under $25 can be a challenge, but Old Overholt 100 Proof makes it easy. This is a staple rye that delivers a surprisingly robust flavor for its price. Bob mentions that “by virtue of being the only one that we can pick from, Old Overholt 100 is your under $25 rye representative.” Brad adds, “There’s just a depth of flavor in the 100-proof version that you can’t quite get from the standard 80-proof.” At around $20, this whiskey offers a classic rye spice with enough complexity to satisfy even seasoned rye drinkers. It’s an excellent option for anyone starting their rye journey or looking for a dependable budget pick.
$25 to $50: Michter’s US 1 Single Barrel Rye
When it comes to rye whiskey in the $25 to $50 range, Michter’s US 1 Single Barrel Rye is the obvious choice. "This is one of my highest-rated ryes of all time on the podcast," says Brad, and for good reason. At around $45, Michter’s US 1 delivers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, with a complexity that punches well above its price. If you’re looking for a rye that offers more depth and nuance than your average bottle, this is the one to get.
Honorable mention goes to Old Overholt 114 Proof, which offers an extra kick of proof and flavor, making it a great alternative if you want something with a bit more punch.
$50 to $80: Hunting Creek Rye
When you step into the $50 to $80 category, there are some fantastic options, but Hunting Creek Rye rises to the top. Bob recalls, “I don’t know if I could get a better rye for $50 than the Hunting Creek.” This whiskey is packed with flavor, offering notes of spice, caramel, and a touch of oak that make it a standout choice in this price range. Brad agrees, calling it “stunning.” If you can find a bottle, this one is worth every penny.
Another strong contender in this category is Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye. At $60, it’s an exceptional value, delivering bold flavors and a higher proof that rye lovers will appreciate.
$80 to $120: Barrel Seagrass
As we move into the $80 to $120 range, one rye whiskey stands head and shoulders above the rest: Barrel Seagrass. Brad says, “This is the easiest choice for any price point of any type of whiskey we’re going to do today.” At $85, Barrel Seagrass offers an incredible combination of flavors, with notes of tropical fruit, spice, and a hint of sweetness that make it an unforgettable pour. It’s a rye whiskey that’s worth every bit of its price and then some.
Honorable mentions go to A Midwinter Night’s Dram and Old Forester Single Barrel Rye, both of which are excellent choices in this category. However, Barrel Seagrass is the clear favorite for its unique and complex profile.
Over $120: Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye
When it comes to luxury rye whiskey, the Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is in a league of its own. Brad describes it as “the heavens opening up,” with an astonishing depth of flavor that includes rich spice, dried fruit, and a velvety finish. At over $200, it’s an investment, but one that’s well worth it for serious rye enthusiasts. This whiskey is the epitome of what a high-end rye should be, and it’s our top pick in the luxury category.
For those looking for an alternative, Barrel Seagrass 16 Year is another fantastic option, offering a slightly different profile but still delivering an exceptional rye whiskey experience.
Conclusion
There you have it—our top rye whiskey picks at every price point. From the budget-friendly Old Overholt 100 Proof to the luxurious Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, these whiskeys represent the best of what rye has to offer. Whether you’re new to rye or a seasoned fan, we hope this guide helps you discover some new favorites.
We’d love to hear your thoughts! What are your go-to rye whiskeys at these price points? Join the conversation on our social media channels, and be sure to check out the Film & Whiskey podcast for more whiskey reviews and recommendations. Cheers!
