A Pioneer of Empire Rye

Hudson Do the Rye Thing holds a special place in the American rye revival. Distilled at Tuthilltown Spirits in New York's Hudson Valley, it was one of the first craft rye whiskeys to emerge from the state in decades. The Empire Rye certification means every grain in that 95% rye mash bill was grown on New York farms, giving this bottle genuine terroir that few competitors can match.

Bold Spice With a Herbal Twist

The nose opens with assertive rye spice and bright citrus zest, backed by touches of honey and fresh mint. On the palate, peppery rye grain takes center stage alongside orchard fruit and light toffee, with herbal undertones that add surprising complexity for a relatively young whiskey. The finish stretches out to medium-long, leaving mint and lingering spice with a gentle oak sweetness that reminds you of its time in new charred American oak barrels.

Cocktail Powerhouse

Where Hudson Do the Rye Thing truly excels is behind the bar. The high rye content gives it the backbone to stand up to sweet vermouth in a Manhattan and enough character to drive an Old Fashioned without being lost under bitters and sugar. Its herbal and citrus notes also make it an interesting choice for a Boulevardier, where the mint can play against the Campari's bitterness.

The Bottom Line

Hudson Do the Rye Thing is a well-crafted New York rye that delivers bold spice and genuine provenance at a fair price. It rewards cocktail experimentation and offers enough complexity for neat sipping, though those who prefer softer, sweeter whiskeys may find the assertive rye character a bit much. For fans of spice-forward rye with real regional identity, this bottle belongs on the shelf.