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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye is a 12-year Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey released in small batches, bottled at 108 proof, and non-chill filtered for full flavor. This uncut release highlights rich baking spices, stewed fruit, and warm rye complexity—making it one of the most anticipated rye whiskey releases of the year. |
Forget Dry January. It’s Rye January at Whiskey Social.
We’re celebrating the bold, spicy, and unapologetically full-flavored side of American whiskey all month long, starting with Elijah Craig’s newest release: Barrel Proof Rye. Aged over 12 years and bottled uncut, this is the kind of rye that demands attention and earns its place on your shelf.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye is a cask-strength, non-chill filtered Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.
This new limited-edition rye release takes the bold character of Elijah Craig’s signature bourbon lineup and translates it to rye—bottled uncut and straight from the barrel. Each batch includes its own proof, age statement, and batch number (e.g., Batch A925 for September 2025).
Image Source: Elijah Craig
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Each batch of Barrel Proof Rye is aged over 12 years and bottled at cask strength with no chill filtering.
This means you’re tasting the whiskey as close to straight from the barrel as possible—no dilution, no filtration, just the raw essence of Kentucky rye. The September 2025 release (Batch A925) clocks in at 108 proof and 12 years, 3 months old.
This 12-year Barrel Proof Rye offers a rich, full-bodied flavor profile with classic rye character and deep barrel influence.
Nose: Baking spices with a sweet molasses note
Palate: Stewed fruit layered with cinnamon and nutmeg; complex and well-balanced
Finish: Long and warm with butterscotch and a bold rye spice kick
It’s a rare rye expression from one of bourbon’s most respected names.
Elijah Craig is known for pioneering the use of charred oak barrels, and their new barrel proof rye combines deep heritage with modern demand for bold, full-strength whiskey. This is the brand’s first cask strength rye and collectors have taken notice.
Elijah Craig was a Kentucky distiller credited with pioneering the use of charred oak barrels in bourbon.
While he’s often called the “Father of Bourbon,” the brand now acknowledges and actively researches the role enslaved people played in building the bourbon industry—a necessary and ongoing effort toward transparency and equity.
If you’re a fan of high-proof rye, this bottle deserves a spot on your shelf.
With age, proof, heritage, and no shortcuts taken, Elijah Craig’s barrel proof rye is one of the most compelling new rye releases in years. It’s a perfect winter sipper and a strong contender for top rye of the year.
From limited-edition barrel picks to small batch standouts, Whiskey Wednesday highlights one new bottle each week. It's always worth a closer look.
Check out our most recent winter season drops:
12/17/25 New Riff Winter Whiskey: A Bottled‑in‑Bond Bourbon for Cold Weather
12/10/25 Duck Club™ Bourbon: Built for Outdoorsmen, Backed by Riley Green
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