Rye whiskey is a classic American spirit offering bold, dry and spicy elements to any cocktail. It pairs well with everything from brandy and vermouth to nutmeg and apples. Rye cocktails are perfect for the cold weather and there are plenty of ways to enjoy them. Try an updated classic like the Memorial Union Old Fashioned or try something appropriately seasonal like the Mott & Mulberry which features apple cider, maple syrup, and lemon. Here are seven rye cocktails guaranteed to keep you feeling cozy.
For this warm, boozy nightcap, Linda Aldredge uses a blend of whole spices, but home cooks can buy Chai Spice Blend from TeaSource.
Leo Robitschek of The Nomad Bar in NYC uses fresh apple cider and maple syrup in this perfect cold-weather cocktail.
Brian Bartels created this rye- and maple-infused version of Wisconsin's signature brandy cocktail, adding a dash of Grand Marnier and garnishing with the lemon and orange twists.
At San Francisco's Linden Room, Ron Boyd created a floral white vermouth featuring chamomile, dried artichokes, and coriander, which he stirs into his twist on the classic Rob Roy cocktail.
In this intensified Sidecar, Jonny Raglin replaces the orange curaçao with pear and ginger liqueurs and uses two bonded (aged, 100-proof) spirits: Laird's apple brandy and Rittenhouse rye whiskey, which Raglin says tastes like "pumpernickel spice."
This drink takes your usual Manhattan up a notch thanks to three different bitter elements. Created by mixologist James Ives, the Northern Standard is a full-flavored cocktail that uses Knob Creek rye aged in charred barrels to balance out the richness of Carpano. It's equally strong as it is smooth.
Bartender Gui Jaroschy sweetens this rye and beer punch with an easy caraway syrup. For a cheeky garnish, he places two bottles of Miller High Life in the punch bowl for the stragglers who arrive at the end of the night.