Rye Whiskey
Cocktails with Rye Whiskey
Spice-forward whiskey drinks that name rye — Manhattan, Sazerac, and Vieux Carré — not generic “whiskey” or bourbon builds.
Rye whiskey is grouped on the whiskey spirit hub, but this page is only recipes that call for rye by name. Bourbon Old Fashioneds stay off the list so the spice-forward bottle has its own landing.
Rye Whiskey cocktail FAQ
Can I use bourbon in a Manhattan or Sazerac?
Bourbon makes a softer Manhattan; a Sazerac really wants rye (or cognac, historically). We keep rye as its own pantry key so matches stay honest.
What should I buy first if I like rye cocktails?
A bottled-in-bond or 90+ proof rye, sweet vermouth, and Peychaud’s or Angostura bitters. That set covers Manhattan and Sazerac.