Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye makes history as Whisky Advocate’s 2025 Whisky of the Year; the first rye whiskey to earn this prestigious honor.
There’s something electric about watching history unfold in a glass.
When Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye claimed the top spot as Whisky Advocate’s 2025 Whisky of the Year, it wasn’t just another trophy on the shelf, it marked the first time a rye whiskey has ever earned this prestigious honor.
For whiskey lovers in Los Angeles, Manhattan, Miami Beach, and beyond, this barrel proof rye whiskey represents more than exceptional craft. It’s a flavor-packed celebration of patience, tradition, and the bold spirit that defines American whiskey culture today.
Released just months ago in September 2025, this inaugural barrel proof rye from Elijah Craig has already captured the attention of critics and enthusiasts who appreciate complexity without compromise.
At 108 proof and aged over 12 years, it delivers the kind of unfiltered authenticity that serious collectors seek; and the approachable character that makes it perfect for sharing with friends over a weekend in Aspen or a dinner party in Hong Kong.
A 90-Year Legacy Meets Modern Excellence
Elijah Craig isn’t new to the winner’s circle. The brand has built its reputation on producing exceptional barrel proof whiskeys that honor the legacy of Reverend Elijah Craig, often called “The Father of Bourbon.” He’s credited with aging whiskey in charred oak barrels back in 1789—a technique that transformed clear corn liquor into the amber, flavor-rich spirit we know today.
Heaven Hill, the family-owned distillery behind Elijah Craig, has now claimed Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year three times. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon won in 2017, Larceny Barrel Proof topped the list in 2020, and now this rye whiskey continues that winning streak during the distillery’s 90th anniversary year.
“To have Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye recognized as Whisky of the Year during our 90th anniversary year is profoundly meaningful,”
Max L. Shapira
Heaven Hill Brands
“To have Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye recognized as Whisky of the Year during our 90th anniversary year is profoundly meaningful,” said Max L. Shapira, Executive Chairman of Heaven Hill Brands. “For nine decades, our family has remained committed to elevating American Whiskey with patience, integrity, and a deep respect for tradition.”
What Makes This Barrel Proof Rye Special
Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll and his team approached this release with both reverence and a fun-loving sense of adventure. They selected barrels aged 12 years and 3 months, looking for extraordinary depth paired with surprising approachability; no easy feat when you’re working with uncut, non-chill filtered spirits.
The result?
A whiskey that reveals layers of baking spices, gingerbread, and molasses on the nose. The palate unfolds with stewed fruits and cinnamon, while the finish lingers with nutmeg and a generous burst of rye spice. It’s the kind of full-flavored rye whiskey that makes you slow down and pay attention, whether you’re unwinding in a Washington DC townhouse or toasting success at a rooftop bar in Chicago.
According to the Distilled Spirits Council, American rye whiskey has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with consumers gravitating toward bold, authentic expressions. This Elijah Craig release captures that trend perfectly while setting a new standard for what barrel proof rye can be.
The Relatability Factor: Why This Matters Now
Here’s where it gets relatable: barrel proof whiskey isn’t just for collectors with temperature-controlled cellars. Yes, enthusiasts in Berlin and San Francisco are hunting down bottles, but this release also speaks to anyone who appreciates craft and quality. The 108 proof makes it accessible for both sipping neat and experimenting with cocktails—though many would argue that water is the only addition this whiskey needs.
Max Stefka, AVP Global Whiskey Brands for Heaven Hill, emphasized the team effort behind this achievement: “We are honored to see Elijah Craig’s first-ever Barrel Proof Rye recognized at the highest level. To be chosen as Whisky of the Year is a proud milestone for our entire team and we thank Whisky Advocate for the recognition and the value they provide to all whiskey fans.”
“We are honored to see Elijah Craig’s first-ever Barrel Proof Rye recognized at the highest level.”
Max StefkA
AVP Global Whiskey Brands for Heaven Hill
This isn’t stuffy tradition for tradition’s sake. It’s flavor-forward whiskey made by people who genuinely love what they do—and that enthusiasm shows in every bottle of Batch A925.
Where to Find It and What to Expect
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye is available nationwide in 750 ml bottles with a suggested retail price of $74.99. Given the Whisky of the Year designation and the brand’s track record, expect demand to remain high in major markets like Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Manhattan.
This inaugural batch represents the beginning of a new chapter for Elijah Craig’s barrel proof whiskey lineup, expanding the brand’s commitment to offering whiskeys in their purest, most distinctive form. For those building a collection or simply looking to experience award-winning American whiskey, this release checks every box.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye
What makes Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye different from other rye whiskeys?
This is the first barrel proof rye in the Elijah Craig portfolio, aged 12+ years and bottled at 108 proof without chill filtering. It showcases rye whiskey in its purest form with complex layers of spice, fruit, and warmth.
Why is the 2025 Whisky of the Year award significant?
This marks the first time a rye whiskey has earned Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year honor in the publication’s history. It also continues Heaven Hill’s impressive track record, with three Whisky of the Year wins since 2017.
Where can I buy Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye?
The whiskey is available nationwide through select retailers at a suggested retail price of $74.99 per 750 ml bottle. Availability may vary by market.
A Historic Win Worth Celebrating
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye’s recognition as Whisky Advocate’s 2025 Whisky of the Year isn’t just industry recognition—it’s validation of American rye whiskey’s evolution and the craftsmanship that makes it possible. Whether you’re a seasoned collector in Miami Beach or someone just beginning to explore premium spirits in your favorite upscale neighborhood, this release deserves attention.
The combination of 12+ years aging, meticulous barrel selection, and uncompromising presentation creates a barrel proof rye whiskey experience that balances power with finesse.
Visit elijahcraig.com to learn more about this historic release and explore the full Elijah Craig family of whiskeys. Here’s to history in a glass—and to the next 90 years of American whiskey excellence.
As a wine guy who’s getting into whiskey, I’m fascinated by the 12-year aging. That’s longer than most Bordeaux spends in barrel. Respect.
Third Heaven Hill “Whisky of the Year” since 2017? That’s not luck, that’s mastery. My collection just got more expensive.
Been hunting this since October. Finally scored a bottle in Atlanta last week and wow, worth the search. The gingerbread notes are incredible.
Oh great, another “whisky of the year” I’ll never find on a shelf. Cool cool cool.
$75 retail price… so we’re looking at $150 secondary market by next week. Fantastic.
First rye to win Whisky of the Year” sounds impressive until you realize it just means nobody thought to make good barrel proof rye before 2025.
Anyone tried this in an Old Fashioned yet? At 108 proof it should hold up beautifully with just a sugar cube and bitters.