Sonoma County Rye California 48%

A California rye born when a city dweller's love of Sonoma country turned into a distillery.

Expert description

Sonoma County Rye California is an American rye whiskey, bottled at 48%, from Sonoma Distilling Company. The distillery was founded in 2010 by Adam Spiegel, who grew up in San Francisco and discovered his passion for spirits in 2008 while helping a distiller friend in Santa Rosa. The rye whiskey is double distilled in handmade copper pot stills, made from a mash of 80% unmalted Californian and Canadian rye and 20% malted rye from the UK, giving it a distinctly spicy backbone with nutty and fruity overtones. The whiskey is aged for at least 15 months in smaller casks.

Tasting notes

Nose

The nose offers rye bread, pepper and a hint of nuts.

Palate

The palate is spicy with rye grain, fruit and light sweetness.

Finish

The finish is medium to long, dry and spicy.

Specifications

Name: Sonoma County Rye California
Region/Country: Sonoma County, California, USA
Type: Rye Whiskey
ABV: 48%

Flavour profile

Spicy · Rye-forward · Nutty · Dry

Frequently asked questions about Sonoma County Rye California

What makes this rye whiskey distinctive?

The mash consists of 80% unmalted Californian and Canadian rye plus 20% malted rye from the UK, producing an unusual combination of spicy, nutty and fruity character.

How did Sonoma Distilling Company get started?

Founder Adam Spiegel discovered his passion for spirits in 2008 while helping a distiller friend in Santa Rosa, and opened his own distillery in 2010.

How is Sonoma County Rye California best served?

Neat, on the rocks, or in classic rye cocktails like a Manhattan or Sazerac.

Is Sonoma County Rye California 48% a good gift idea?

Yes, Sonoma County Rye California 48% is a natural choice for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and characterful flavour experiences — especially for the whisky enthusiast keen to explore beyond the most familiar names.

How should Sonoma County Rye California 48% be stored?

Standing upright, cool and dark, like any other spirits bottle. Once opened, the contents keep best if enjoyed within a year or so.

How would you sum up the flavour profile of Sonoma County Rye California 48%?

In short: Spicy · Rye-forward · Nutty · Dry.