Beyond the Neat Pour: Unlocking the Versatility of Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye in Exquisite Cocktails

At Anderson & Link Whiskey Company, we take immense pride in the distinct character of our Single Malt Rye. Crafted with 100% malted rye, it offers a spicy symphony interwoven with nuanced fruit and earthy undertones – a spirit designed for contemplation and savoring neat or with a touch of water. However, the bold and complex profile of our Single Malt Rye also makes it an exceptionally versatile base for crafting truly memorable cocktails.

While traditional rye cocktails often rely on the assertive spice of American rye whiskey (typically a blend with a lower malted rye content), our Single Malt Rye brings a unique layer of complexity and refinement to the mix. The malting process softens some of the sharper edges while amplifying the inherent spiciness and adding intriguing fruity and bready notes. This opens up a world of cocktail possibilities that venture beyond the classics, offering a sophisticated and nuanced drinking experience.

Join us as we explore some of the best drinks to make with Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye, showcasing its ability to shine in both familiar favorites and innovative concoctions. Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with the distinctive character of our Rocky Mountain-crafted spirit.

Reimagining the Classics: Rye Staples with a Single Malt Twist

Our Single Malt Rye elevates traditional rye cocktails with its added complexity and smoother edges.

• The Manhattan, Refined: The quintessential rye cocktail, the Manhattan, gains a new dimension with our Single Malt Rye. The spicy backbone of the rye harmonizes beautifully with the sweet vermouth and the bitter complexity of Angostura bitters. The subtle fruit and malt notes of our single malt add layers of intrigue that a standard rye might lack.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth (preferably a high-quality Italian vermouth)

    • 2-3 Dashes Angostura Bitters

    • Garnish: Brandied cherry or orange twist

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: Consider experimenting with different bitters, such as black walnut or orange, to complement the unique fruit and spice notes of our rye. A richer, more aromatic vermouth can also enhance the complexity.

    
    

• The Old Fashioned, Elevated: The simple elegance of an Old Fashioned allows the quality of the base spirit to truly shine. Our Single Malt Rye provides a spicy and nuanced foundation that interacts beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar and the aromatic bitters.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • 1 tsp Sugar (or ¾ tsp simple syrup)

    • 2-3 Dashes Angostura Bitters

    • Small splash of water (optional)

    • Garnish: Orange twist

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: Explore using Demerara sugar for a richer sweetness or experiment with orange or grapefruit bitters to highlight different facets of the rye's character. Expressing the oils from the orange twist over the drink is essential to unlock its aromatic potential.

    
    

• The Sazerac, Spicier and More Complex: This New Orleans classic, with its absinthe rinse and Peychaud's bitters, finds a compelling partner in our Single Malt Rye. The rye's inherent spice complements the anise notes of the absinthe, while the malted character adds depth to the overall flavor profile.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • ¼ oz Absinthe (for rinsing the glass)

    • 1 tsp Sugar (or ¾ tsp simple syrup)

    • 2-3 Dashes Peychaud's Bitters

    • 1 Dash Angostura Bitters (optional)

    • Garnish: Lemon twist (expressed over the drink)

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: A slightly longer absinthe rinse can intensify the anise notes. Experimenting with a touch of Creole bitters alongside Peychaud's can add another layer of regional complexity.

    
    

Venturing Beyond Tradition: Cocktails That Celebrate Single Malt Rye's Nuances

The unique profile of Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye invites exploration beyond the traditional rye cocktail repertoire.

• The Rocky Mountain Highball: A simple yet refreshing way to appreciate the nuances of our rye. The carbonation lifts the aromas and flavors, making it perfect for a warm day.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • Top with high-quality club soda or sparkling water

    • Garnish: Lemon or grapefruit twist

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: Infuse a simple syrup with rosemary or thyme to add a subtle herbal complexity that complements the rye's spice. Experiment with different flavored sparkling waters for added interest.

    
    

• The Aurora Sunset: A cocktail designed to highlight the fruitier notes of our malted rye, balanced with citrus and a touch of sweetness.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • ¾ oz Fresh Blood Orange Juice

    • ½ oz Fresh Lemon Juice

    • ½ oz Maple Syrup

    • 2 Dashes Orange Bitters

    • Garnish: Orange slice

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: A small barspoon of a fruit liqueur, such as Cherry Heering or apricot liqueur, can add another layer of fruity complexity.

    
    

• The Spicy Orchard: A cocktail that marries the rye's spice with the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • ¾ oz Fresh Apple Cider

    • ½ oz Fresh Lemon Juice

    • ½ oz Cinnamon Syrup

    • 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

    • Garnish: Apple slice or cinnamon stick

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: A splash of hard cider can add effervescence. Infusing the cinnamon syrup with a touch of star anise can deepen the spice notes.

    
    

• The Rye & Ginger Refined: A more sophisticated take on the classic combination, using high-quality ginger liqueur and fresh lime.

  • Recipe:

    • 2 oz Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye

    • ¾ oz Ginger Liqueur (e.g., Domaine de Canton)

    • ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice

    • Garnish: Candied ginger or lime wheel

  • The Anderson & Link Spin: A few mint leaves, gently muddled, can add a refreshing herbal counterpoint to the spice and ginger.

    
    

The Art of Experimentation: Unleashing Your Inner Mixologist

The beauty of a well-crafted spirit like Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye lies in its versatility and the invitation it offers for experimentation. Don't be afraid to venture beyond these suggestions and create your own signature cocktails. Consider these tips:

• Balance is Key: Aim for a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and bitter elements to complement the spicy and nuanced character of the rye.

• Consider Complementary Flavors: Think about flavors that naturally pair well with rye, such as citrus, spice (cinnamon, clove, ginger), herbs (mint, rosemary, thyme), and fruit (apple, pear, berries).

• High-Quality Ingredients Matter: The quality of your mixers, juices, and bitters will significantly impact the final cocktail. Opt for fresh, natural ingredients whenever possible.

• Taste and Adjust: Cocktail recipes are guidelines. Always taste as you go and adjust the proportions to your preference.

  
  

Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye is more than just a sipping whiskey; it's a foundation for exceptional cocktails that showcase its unique character and complexity. Whether you're elevating classic rye drinks or venturing into new flavor combinations, our single malt rye offers a sophisticated and rewarding experience. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and discover the exciting world of cocktails crafted with the spirit of the Rocky Mountains. Cheers to the art of the drink!