New Brighton Distillery Yamhill Rye is a distinctive Oregon rye whiskey distilled from homegrown Yamhill County grain and aged in local AVA Pinot Noir wine casks at 90 proof. This unique expression marries the spicy character of Pacific Northwest rye with the subtle fruit and tannin influences of Oregon's renowned wine barrels. In the rolling hills of McMinnville, Oregon, New Brighton Distillery crafts small-batch spirits with a commitment to terroir and local ingredients. Their copper pot still, forged from Hungarian-mined copper and German-purified metal, transforms estate-grown rye into this singular expression of Yamhill County's agricultural heritage. The distillery's wine cask aging program creates a bridge between Oregon's whiskey and wine traditions.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh rye spice, grape skin tannins, vanilla oak, dried cherry, hint of black pepper
• Palate: Rye grain sweetness, wine barrel fruitiness, cinnamon bark, toasted oak, subtle grape must
• Finish: Medium length with warming rye spice, lingering wine tannins, oak char

Product Details

Spirit Type	Whiskey Distilled From Rye Mash
ABV	45.0% (90 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	Aged at least 3 months
Distillery	New Brighton Distillery
Region	McMinnville, Oregon
Barrel Type	AVA Pinot Noir casks
Production	Small batch, hand crafted

Perfect For

• Wine Country Evenings: Sipping alongside Oregon Pinot Noir for a complete terroir experience
• Craft Spirit Enthusiasts: Exploring unique American whiskey expressions beyond Kentucky and Tennessee
• Farm-to-Glass Cocktails: Adding Oregon character to rye whiskey cocktails like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds
• Pacific Northwest Gatherings: Sharing local spirits that celebrate regional grain and wine traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does New Brighton Yamhill Rye taste like?

New Brighton Yamhill Rye offers a unique flavor profile that combines traditional rye whiskey spice with wine barrel influences. The Pinot Noir cask aging adds subtle fruit notes and tannin structure to the characteristic pepper and grain sweetness of Pacific Northwest rye. Expect flavors of cinnamon, dried cherry, vanilla oak, and a hint of grape must complexity.

Is New Brighton Yamhill Rye good for cocktails?

Yes, this Oregon rye works beautifully in classic rye cocktails like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds. The wine barrel aging adds complexity without overwhelming the rye character, and the 90 proof provides good structure for mixing. The subtle fruit notes from the Pinot Noir casks create interesting depth in whiskey cocktails.

How should I drink New Brighton Yamhill Rye?

This rye is excellent neat or with a splash of water to open up the wine barrel influences. The 90 proof makes it approachable for sipping, while the unique Pinot Noir cask aging rewards careful tasting. Try it alongside an Oregon Pinot Noir to compare how the same terroir expresses itself in whiskey versus wine.

What makes New Brighton different from other rye whiskeys?

New Brighton Yamhill Rye stands apart through its Oregon origin, homegrown Yamhill County grain, and aging in local AVA Pinot Noir wine casks. This creates a distinctly Pacific Northwest expression that bridges whiskey and wine traditions. The combination of estate-grown rye and wine barrel finishing is rare in American whiskey.

Is the 3-month age statement concerning for quality?

While young, the minimum 3-month age allows the rye's natural character to shine while picking up complementary wine barrel notes. Many craft distilleries release younger spirits that focus on grain quality and unique barrel treatments rather than extended aging. The Pinot Noir cask finishing adds complexity that enhances the young whiskey's profile.

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