2025 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass 2nd Edition Rye Whiskey

A little background

Heaven Hill Distillery, America’s largest family-owned and operated distillery, presents the Second Edition of its Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, a limited-edition release in its acclaimed series. Crafted at the Bernheim Distillery in Kentucky, this small-batch expression emphasizes transparency and craftsmanship, showcasing the journey from locally sourced ingredients to final bottling. The Shapira family’s commitment to quality and innovation shines through in this meticulously produced rye whiskey, part of a series celebrated for its detailed approach to whiskey making.

This 2025 edition features a mash bill of 63% rye, 20% corn, and 13% malt, with the corn sourced from Beck’s Hybrids 6225 varietal, grown by Peterson Farms in Nelson County, Kentucky. Distilled at 107 proof and aged for over six years in Heaven Hill’s Cox’s Creek rickhouse, the whiskey is bottled at barrel proof of 105.2 proof (52.6% ABV) and is non-chill filtered to preserve its bold character. Available in 700ml bottles at a suggested retail price of $99.99, this release includes detailed label information about the corn varietal, mash bill, and distillation process, reflecting Heaven Hill’s dedication to transparency and quality.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Gold

Nose

Sweet lemon tea, floral, brown sugar, citrus, and oak.

Palate

Honey, orange citrus, golden raisins, sweet tea, hazelnut, white pepper, clove spice.

Finish

Lime citrus, almonds, sweet tea, chocolate, oak, and rye spice.

In closing

The 2025 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass 2nd Edition Rye Whiskey delivers a light and refreshing experience, with a sweet nose of lemon tea, floral notes, and brown sugar, followed by a waxy honeycomb palate featuring honey, orange citrus, and subtle clove spice. Its pleasantly long finish carries lime citrus, almonds, and rye spice, complemented by an earthy mid-palate note. While it lacks intense flavor “attack,” its delicate profile shines through, enhanced by the innovative grain-to-glass concept and transparent production details. This enjoyable rye is versatile—perfect for sipping neat or elevating a cocktail, especially on a hot day where its sweet, citrus-forward character truly refreshes.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Heaven Hill Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.