Rock & Rye Whiskey
80 Proof
Annual Release
Spirit Description
Rock and Rye Whiskey is our Woodcock Rye Whiskey that is infused with a variety of fruits and spices and released every October. This infusion includes oranges, lemons, pineapple, horehound drops, honey, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. The resulting whiskey is a well-balanced blend of citrusy notes combined with spicy sweetness that is perfect for fall and winter sipping.
Information & History
Rock & Rye Whiskey has a rich and storied past, rooted in 19th-century American drinking culture. This spirit began as a simple but effective remedy, often crafted by mixing rye whiskey with rock candy and various fruits, herbs, or spices. Originally, it was marketed as a cure-all in pharmacies, where its sweet and smooth flavor made it an appealing tonic for ailments like colds, sore throats, and even digestive troubles.
At a time when whiskey itself was already known for its warming effects, the addition of rock candy provided a syrupy texture that soothed the throat, while fruits like oranges and lemons added essential vitamins. Spices such as horehound, cinnamon, and cloves were common additions, believed to enhance medicinal benefits. Sold in small bottles, Rock & Rye became a popular elixir across America, easily accessible at local drugstores and sometimes prescribed by doctors.
Despite its roots in pharmacy counters, Rock & Rye eventually grew into a beloved cocktail ingredient and sipping spirit, maintaining its nostalgic allure. Today, it’s recognized as a classic American spirit with a nod to its medicinal beginnings, embodying both the flavor and folk remedies of a bygone era.