Seelbach's Christmas Rye Kicks of the 12 Days of Whiskey 🎄
Blake Riber
December 01, 2025
12 Days of Whiskey is our favorite stretch of the year at Seelbach’s. Every drop is intentional: from unique finds, special releases, and the return of some fan-favorite bottles. For 2025 we think we’ve outdone ourselves.
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Let’s kick things off with the debut of Seelbach’s Christmas Rye!

The idea for Christmas Rye came to me about this time last year. For years I would spend Black Friday chasing the Bourbon County Stouts from Goose Island. I loved the tradition of sharing bottles with friends and family during the holidays. I wanted a bottle that represented the holiday season. And more importantly, a celebration of a drink with loved ones. Whether that's Christmas, Chanukah, Holiday gatherings or a slow weekday night around a fire. We designed this bottle to capture holiday flavors. Plus, it’s priced right, so you’ll want to open it right away.Â
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Christmas Rye started with a 7-year rye whiskey that we finished for 3 months in Bruléed Maple barrels. One third of that blend rested in Amburana barrels for 5 days. It's the first sample I've brought home that my wife went for a second pour of! That's when I knew I was on to something great. It starts with bold, spicy rye that wakes up your palate like a snap of winter air. Amburana brings warm baking spices of cinnamon, clove, and a hint of nutmeg. The maple staves add cozy sweetness and rich flavor. These flavors originate from the grain, barrels, and the process of finishing. They don’t come from added flavorings. The result calls to mind holiday breakfasts and cold nights by the fire. If you were a fan or missed out on Penelope Rio, Christmas Rye is the adventure you've been waiting for.Â
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It’s Christmas in a glass—nostalgic, comforting, and made to be shared.
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Rich maple and baking spice on the nose. Notes of cinnamon, candied mint and toffee. The herbal notes of the rye shine on the palate as they’re combined with sweet brûléed sugar. The Amburana adds additional sweetness and spice to remind you of the holidays. This whiskey is amplified through the sweetness and spice. At the end of the day it just tastes like Christmas!