Sunset Distilling Co. Rye Whiskey is a 100-proof American rye whiskey that captures the essence of Appalachian craftsmanship with bright rye spice, rounded warmth, and a lingering finish that echoes the final glow of mountain sunsets. Hand-finished and bottled in Yellow Spring, West Virginia, this bold yet balanced expression showcases the rugged beauty of the region's distilling tradition.

Born from the rolling hills of West Virginia in 2023, Sunset Distilling Co. represents a new chapter in Appalachian whiskey making. Operating under DSP-WV-21034, this mountain distillery embraces the time-honored tradition of hand-finishing each bottle, ensuring that every drop reflects the care and attention that defines small-batch American whiskey. The spirit itself is distilled in North Carolina before making its journey to the mountain ridgelines where it's carefully finished and bottled.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Bright rye spice, mountain honey, charred oak, vanilla bean, dried orange peel
• Palate: Bold rye grain, cinnamon bark, caramel warmth, peppery spice, toasted grain
• Finish: Long and lingering with rye spice, oak tannins, warm honey

Product Details

Perfect For

• Mountain cabin evenings: Sipping neat by the fire as the sun sets behind the ridgeline
• Classic cocktails: The bold 100-proof backbone shines in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan
• Whiskey exploration: Discovering the emerging craft distilling scene of West Virginia
• Seasonal celebrations: Toasting autumn gatherings with friends and family

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sunset Distilling Co. Rye Whiskey taste like?

This rye whiskey delivers bright, assertive rye spice balanced by rounded warmth and sweetness. The palate showcases bold rye grain character with cinnamon, caramel, and peppery spice, finishing with a long, lingering warmth that exemplifies well-crafted American rye whiskey.

Is this rye whiskey good for cocktails?

Absolutely—the 100-proof strength and bold rye spice profile make this an excellent cocktail base. It holds up beautifully in classic preparations like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, where the rye's peppery character can shine through while the higher proof ensures the whiskey doesn't get lost among other ingredients.

How should I drink Sunset Distilling Co. Rye Whiskey?

This rye whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its mountain character. The 100-proof strength means a few drops of water can help reveal additional flavors while maintaining the spirit's bold backbone. It also excels in classic whiskey cocktails where rye's spicy character is prized.

What makes this West Virginia rye whiskey special?

This rye whiskey represents the emerging craft distilling movement in West Virginia's Appalachian Mountains. Hand-finished and bottled at elevation, it captures the terroir of the region while showcasing traditional American rye whiskey character. The combination of mountain craftsmanship and bold 100-proof strength creates a distinctive expression of Appalachian whiskey making.

Is Sunset Distilling Co. Rye Whiskey similar to other American ryes?

This rye whiskey shares DNA with classic American rye expressions but brings its own Appalachian character to the category. Like other craft ryes, it emphasizes bold spice and grain character, but the mountain finishing process and West Virginia terroir give it a unique rounded warmth that distinguishes it from mass-produced alternatives.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.