Smokeye Hill debuts ‘world’s first’ rye made with heirloom blue corn
Colorado-based Smokeye Hill Whiskey has launched the ‘world’s first’ rye whiskey made with heirloom blue corn, marking the brand’s debut venture beyond Bourbon.
The new rye whiskey, distilled in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, is made using a unique four-grain mashbill that includes rye, heirloom blue corn, yellow corn, and malted barley.
After being barrelled, the whiskey is shipped to Colorado Springs and aged for five years at an elevation of 6,100 feet in 30-gallon American white oak casks that are charred to various levels.
Colorado’s changing climate is said to speed up the ageing process as the barrels expand and contract due to hot summers and cold winters.
With an average ABV of 65%, the small-batch Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey offers aromas of butterscotch, honey, warm spice, and dried fig. The palate displays notes of caramel, cinnamon, baking spice, dried apricot, sweet vanilla, toasted oak, and pepper.
Blake Johns, founder of Smokeye Hill Whiskey, said: “Our Barrel Proof Rye spends five years ageing to develop depth and complexity, before a percentage of our flagship Bourbon is blended in, ensuring that the signature Smokeye Hill profile shines through.
“This rye, like our Bourbons, is about creating something fresh and distinct, while honouring the craftsmanship and character of Smokeye Hill’s Southwestern heritage.”
Smokeye Hill’s identity is firmly established in Arizona, where heirloom blue corn has long been a cherished staple in everyday cooking.
In keeping with the brand’s small-batch ethos, Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey will be limited to fewer than 1,400 cases.
The rye will be available for purchase in October 2025 at a suggested retail price of US$89.99 in select stores across Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Nevada, Washington, and Texas.
Nationwide deliveries are available for online purchases.
Jeptha Creed Distillery utilised heirloom white corn in its Red, White, & Blue Bourbon last year.
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