Rye

Founded in 2008 by Robert and Sonat Brinecker, Koval was Chicago's first distillery since Prohibition. The name honours both founders' forebears: Sonat's great-grandfather, who emigrated from Vienna to America at the turn of the twentieth century, and Robert's grandfather, who taught him the craft of distilling. This Rye is made from 100% organic rye grain—a rarity in American whiskey, where most distillers use only the legal minimum of 51% rye.

Matured in new American oak from Minnesota, with no additives or colouring. Single barrel, organic, and kosher certified.

The nose presents fresh grain and grass with hints of cinnamon and apple. On the palate, the full character of rye emerges—peppery and spiced, with undertones of honey and vanilla. The finish is light but present, delivering the classic rye burn and a whisper of maple syrup that leaves a pleasant warmth.