The Ezra Brooks Straight Rye Whiskey 99 Proof is a bold salute to American whiskey tradition, rugged, spicy, and unapologetically full of character. Born from the heritage of the Ezra Brooks brand, which dates back to the 1950s, this rye is made for those who prefer their whiskey with backbone. Distilled and bottled in Kentucky by Lux Row Distillers, it delivers a vibrant, high-proof expression that captures the heart of classic rye while maintaining Ezra’s signature smoothness. The first sip hits with energy, then unfolds into rich warmth, a perfect harmony of grit and grace.

Ezra Brooks Straight Rye Whiskey 99 Proof (49.5% ABV)
Brand: Ezra Brooks | Category: Straight Rye Whiskey | ABV: 49.5% (99 Proof) | Origin: Kentucky, USA | Vol: 750ml

Tasting Profile:
Nose:
Bright and spicy, with aromas of cracked pepper, cinnamon, and orange zest balanced by honey, vanilla, and toasted oak. Inviting yet assertive, exactly what a good rye should be.
Palate:
Lively and robust. Classic rye spice bursts forward, clove, nutmeg, and black pepper, before giving way to caramel, brown sugar, and hints of dried fruit. The higher proof adds richness and warmth without harshness.
Finish:
Long, bold, and dry. Notes of baking spice and oak linger with a pleasant heat that keeps you coming back for another sip.

Production Details:
Crafted from a high-rye mash bill, this whiskey is distilled and aged in new, charred American oak barrels before being bottled at 99 proof. The elevated proof allows for a fuller flavor experience, spicy, sweet, and deeply satisfying. Ezra Brooks, known for its approachable yet punchy style, channels the spirit of classic Kentucky rye while remaining smooth enough for everyday enjoyment.

Perfect For:
Perfect for rye lovers who crave spice and structure. Enjoy it neat to appreciate its layered warmth, on the rocks for a mellowed balance, or in classic cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned, where its proof and spice stand strong against vermouth and bitters.

Expert Notes:
Whiskey critics describe Ezra Brooks Straight Rye 99 Proof as “a workhorse rye with elegance.” It punches above its weight, offering depth, complexity, and balance at a proof that delivers both excitement and approachability. It’s the kind of rye that feels equally at home in a cocktail bar or beside a campfire.

Customer Reviews:
“Exactly what I want from a rye, spicy, rich, and bold without being harsh.”
“Perfect proof. It’s flavorful, versatile, and great neat or in cocktails.”
“A fantastic value, big flavor, long finish, pure satisfaction.”

Interesting Fact:
The Ezra Brooks brand has been part of Kentucky’s whiskey landscape since 1957, once positioned as a rebellious alternative to mainstream bourbons. The rye continues that spirit, authentic, bold, and made for drinkers who appreciate character over flash.

Serving Suggestions:
Best enjoyed neat to explore its spice and sweetness, or with a splash of water to open up the citrus and herbal notes. For a signature serve, try an Ezra Rye Manhattan, stirred with sweet vermouth and two dashes of Angostura bitters, garnished with a cherry and orange twist.

Distillery Background:
Produced by Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, Ezra Brooks is part of a lineage of classic American whiskey brands reborn under modern craftsmanship. Lux Row’s expertise in blending tradition with innovation shines here, the Straight Rye 99 Proof is proof that high-rye, high-proof whiskey can be both fiery and refined. It’s Kentucky soul with a spicy edge, confident, characterful, and unmistakably Ezra.