Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey
Photo courtesy of A. Overholt & Company
Distiller Details
A. Overholt & Co. Distillery
Clermont, Kentucky
Website Facebook TwitterPrice Range
Budget — under $20
Where to Buy
THL: What is it?
Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey is a great value option for a straight rye whiskey.
THL: Why should you try it?
This whiskey is different enough from a bourbon to tell the difference, but not nearly as spicy or overbearing as some of the high-power ryes available. There is a prominent apple aroma that is followed by a caramel flavor. The middle-of-the-road style makes this a great choice for rye novices but may leave rye maniacs unsatisfied.
THL: Who makes it?
Old Overholt was one of the few brands that was permitted to sell whiskey during Prohibition because it was labeled as “medicinal.” The medicinal whiskey bottling from this time (1930) was aged for 14 years and was 100 proof. Over time, Overholt reduced the age and the proof to arrive at today’s current bottling after 4 years of aging at 80 proof. See if you can spot a bottle of this hooch in Mad Men episodes, as the label hasn’t changed much and was a favorite of the rye drinkers of the time.
THL: What does it taste like?
caramel apples
THL: How should you drink it?
Phipp’s Fizz is a classic and approachable simple cocktail with a spicy ginger beer that pairs spectacularly with the straight rye whiskey. This is a really refreshing cocktail for the scorching hot days of summer.
Phipps’s Fizz
2 ounces Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey
1/2 ounce Lemon Juice
Dash Angostura bitters
Ginger Beer
Lemon Wedge
Add first three ingredient to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake for 15-30 seconds. Strain into old-fashioned glass with ice. Top with ginger beer, and garnish with lemon wedge.
Other Suggestions:
The Algonquin is another kick-ass cocktail where the peppery dry rye is accompanied by sweet tropical pineapple juice for a fruit-forward drink.
1-1/2 ounces Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey
3/4 ounce French Vermouth
3/4 ounce Pineapple Juice
Stir ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a cocktail glass.
