ELLC
ELLC explained that the new expression has been matured in three cask styles. Credit: fred crandon on Unsplash.

UK-based distillery East London Liquor Company (ELLC) has introduced its first rye whisky known as London Rye.

The new rye expression from the company is said to be the first London-distilled whisky available to taste in more than a century.

With 46.8% alcohol by volume (ABV), ELLC’s London Rye has a mash bill of 42% rye and 58% extra-pale malted barley, which are said to have been distilled in a combination of pot and column stills.

ELLC explained that the new expression has been matured in three cask styles.

The rye whiskey was initially matured in a 30l and 60l new French oak casks, with different char levels, and was later matured for two years in ex-Bourbon, and was finished in a PX cask for one month.

“The great thing about producing our whisky in London is that we have a clean slate to be creative.”

ELLC whisky distiller Andy Mooney said: “The great thing about producing our whisky in London is that we have a clean slate to be creative.

“We’ve put a lot of attention and care into our first release of London Rye – from the char levels of the barrels to the exact ABV of the final product; perfect to drink neat the minute you crack open the bottle.”

London Rye is said to offer an aroma of toffee, coffee, tobacco, dark chocolate, leather and fresh ginger with a flavour of dark chocolate, ripe cherry, stewed apple, tahini, hay, sea salt and a hint of smoke.

The company has released only 269 bottles of London Rye and is now available at selected bars and restaurants around the UK, as well as the distillery’s Bow Wharf home, at a recommended retail price (RRP) of £85.