rye whiskey

noun

: a whiskey distilled from rye or from rye and malt

Examples of rye whiskey in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While a touch of bitters and a kiss of sugar bring out the best in a bourbon or rye whiskey, most rum lacks the oaky punch or grainy finish that makes the Old Fashioned template shine. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 24 Jan. 2026 It’s built on a base of four-year-old Garrison Brothers Bourbon that was then used to fill 30 ex-rye whiskey barrels in March of 2022. Brian Freedman, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026 Guests can also drink from a seasonal cocktail menu highlighting the distillery's rye whiskey and bourbon selection. Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 11 Dec. 2025 This year also marks the first time that rye whiskey has ever topped Whisky Advocate’s annual rankings. Maggie Menderski, Louisville Courier Journal, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rye whiskey

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rye whiskey was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Rye whiskey.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rye%20whiskey. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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