This new whiskey — from a distillery in Central Ireland that’s said to be the oldest one continually operating — is a rarity. A century or more ago, rye was used in the mash for Irish whiskey, but it went out of fashion. Kilbeggan, founded in 1757, is now making a copper-still blend with 30 percent rye for a nicely textured dram that’s warm and spicy-sweet, with hints of ginger and citrus.
Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye, $33.99, 36th Avenue Wines & Spirits, 30-14 36th Avenue (30th Street), Astoria, Queens, 718-361-6080, 36thavewine.com.
More on rye whiskeys
Maryland Rye Whiskey Has Finally Returned. But What Was It in the First Place?
You’ve Heard of Tennessee Whiskey? Meet New York State Rye
