Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye vs Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey: Which Rye Is Better? arrives with the quiet confidence of a spirit that knows its own worth.
Choosing between Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye and Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey can be tough, especially when they compete in the same space. In this head-to-head comparison, we taste them side by side and score every dimension so you don't have to guess.
Whether you're stocking your home bar or picking a gift, this breakdown will point you to the right bottle.
Specifications at a Glance
| Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye | Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | N/A | N/A |
| Type | Rye | Rye |
| Age | N/A | N/A |
| ABV | 49.5% abv | 48.75% ABV) |
| Price | $24.99 | $28.99 |
| Rating | 7/10 | 9/10 |
Nose
Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye: This is a soft nose with some unmistakable alcohol esters. I found a perfume rye with clove rolled into a bread pudding.
Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey: Much to enjoy on the nose, with strong, zesty notes of cereal, vanilla, toasted grains, and blackberry.
Both whiskeys present distinct aromatic profiles. The differences on the nose already hint at the divergent tasting experiences to come.
Palate
Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye: Billowing notes of almond extract which hit and tingle the cheeks. The tingling sensation holds throughout the tasting experience. This is surprisingly robust for being 51% rye without becoming harsh. The mouthfeel is watery with a light pop in the cheeks. There is some white sugar sweetness along with rye berries throughout, but nothing overpowers or really puts itself on display. The finish is sweet with a soft grass note here and there.
Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey: and wish to branch into the vast world of whiskey. My own palate has greatly benefited from studying and broadening my wine knowledge, as Ive found many similarities when practicing intentional tasting. The more one engages with spirits and wine beyond pure enjoyment, the greater the world of flavor opens to them. With this in mind, I feel like Mack was the perfect collaborator on this project, as the whiskey is completely enjoyable and wholly accessible to those drinkers who might not initially be drawn to rye. We review Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey, a collaboration between sommelier and founder of Maison Noir Wines André Hueston Mack and Pinhook Bourbon. (image via Jerry Sampson/Whiskeyful) Tasting Notes: Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey Vital Stats: 97.5 Proof (48.75%
On the palate, the character of each whiskey really comes to life. This is where personal preference plays the biggest role.
Finish
Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye: Comments: $24.99 SRP
Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey: Comments: 97.5 Proof (48
The finish can make or break a whiskey. A long, satisfying finish keeps you coming back for another sip.
Value for Money
Both whiskeys are competitively priced for what they deliver, with Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye at $24.99 and Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey at $28.99.
With both bottles in a comparable price range, the decision comes down to flavour preference rather than wallet size.
The Verdict
Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey edges ahead in this comparison with a rating of 9/10 versus Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye's 7/10. It offers a more refined experience overall.
However, Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye still has plenty to offer, and depending on your taste preferences, it might be the one you reach for more often.
Read the Full Reviews
Final Reflections
Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Rye vs Rye & Sons 2022 Straight Rye Whiskey: Which Rye Is Better? is the kind of bottle that rewards the curious — those willing to sit with a glass and let the story unfold at its own pace.
