Bella Rio Washington Recipe Rye Whiskey is a 56% ABV American rye whiskey from Kennay Farms Distilling in Illinois, inspired by George Washington's historic Mount Vernon distillery mashbill. This patriotic expression modifies the founding father's original recipe by reducing rye and corn content while adding wheat, creating a mellowed spice profile that honors America's whiskey heritage while offering modern drinkability. Celebrating 250 years of American freedom, this whiskey pays homage to George Washington's pioneering spirit in American distillation. Mount Vernon's whiskey ledgers revealed Washington's original mashbill of 60% rye, 35% corn, and 5% malted barley. Kennay Farms Distilling has thoughtfully modified this historical recipe, incorporating wheat to temper the traditional rye spice and create a more approachable expression that bridges America's distilling past with contemporary craft whiskey innovation.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Warm baking spices, honeyed grain, toasted oak, vanilla bean, dried fruit
• Palate: Soft rye spice, wheat bread, caramel sweetness, black pepper, orchard fruits
• Finish: Medium length with gentle spice, oak tannins, lingering sweetness

Product Details

Spirit Type	American Rye Whiskey
ABV	56.0%
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	No Age Statement
Distillery	Kennay Farms Distilling, LLC
Region	Illinois, USA
Mash Bill	Modified Washington Recipe (reduced rye/corn, added wheat)

Perfect For

• Patriotic Celebrations: Honor American heritage with this historically-inspired whiskey
• Whiskey Education: Experience a modified version of America's first presidential distillery recipe
• Craft Spirit Collectors: Add this unique Illinois craft rye to your American whiskey collection
• Historical Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who appreciate the intersection of history and craft distilling

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Bella Rio Washington Recipe Rye Whiskey taste like?

This rye whiskey offers a mellowed spice profile thanks to the wheat addition, delivering soft rye spice balanced with wheat bread sweetness, caramel notes, and gentle oak tannins. The modified mashbill creates a more approachable rye than traditional high-rye recipes while maintaining characteristic rye whiskey complexity.

How is this different from George Washington's original recipe?

While Washington's Mount Vernon mashbill was 60% rye, 35% corn, and 5% malted barley, Bella Rio's version reduces the rye and corn percentages and adds wheat to create a smoother, less aggressive spice profile. This modification honors the historical foundation while improving drinkability for modern palates.

Is Bella Rio Washington Recipe good for cocktails?

Yes, the 56% ABV and mellowed spice profile make this rye excellent for classic cocktails like Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, and Sazeracs. The wheat addition provides body and smoothness that works beautifully in mixed drinks while the rye character adds necessary spice and complexity.

Should I drink this neat or on the rocks?

This rye whiskey is designed to be approachable neat thanks to the wheat-mellowed profile, though the 56% ABV may benefit from a splash of water or ice for some palates. The historical significance makes it particularly enjoyable for contemplative sipping while appreciating America's distilling heritage.

What makes this whiskey historically significant?

This whiskey is based on George Washington's actual distillery records from Mount Vernon, making it a connection to America's founding era of distillation. Washington operated one of the largest whiskey distilleries in America, and this recipe modification allows modern drinkers to experience a version of our first president's whiskey legacy.

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