Historic Rye Whiskey Returns to Its Pennsylvania Roots
released its Americana Rye whiskey on June 25, marking a return to the region’s pre-Prohibition whiskey heritage. The new expression pays homage to Western Pennsylvania’s role as the original center of American whiskey production, predating Kentucky’s bourbon dominance by decades.
The distillery’s Americana Rye features artwork by Pittsburgh artist Kim Fox of Worker Bird on each bottle. According to the official tasting notes, the whiskey delivers “rich, complex rye whiskey with distinct notes of cinnamon and black pepper.” The limited release is available at Wigle’s distillery location, Ross Park Mall bottle shop, and online for shipping within Pennsylvania and Washington D.C.
“With every sip of Americana Rye, you’re tasting history,” says COO Alex Moser. “This whiskey embodies the rebellious and entrepreneurial spirit of our region, and we’re thrilled to bring that legacy to life.”
The Monongahela Valley’s whiskey-making tradition dates to the late 1700s when frontier farmers converted surplus grain into spirits. This early industry sparked the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, a pivotal moment in American history when Western Pennsylvania distillers protested federal excise taxes.
Stars, Stripes & Spirits Pop-Up Celebrates American Whiskey Heritage
Wigle transformed its pop-up bar at 2401 Smallman Street into “Stars, Stripes & Spirits,” an Americana-themed venue operating Fridays and Saturdays from 5-11 PM through July 12. The space features vintage American decorations, bunting, and classic flags creating a nostalgic Independence Day atmosphere.
The pop-up serves cocktails featuring Wigle’s spirits lineup, including the new Americana Rye. Food offerings include traditional American fair favorites like corn dogs and fried Oreos. Local musician Mike Dunn performs live music on Saturday nights.
Wigle Whiskey’s limited-edition Americana Rye features artwork by Pittsburgh artist Kim Fox and celebrates Western Pennsylvania’s whiskey heritage.
Wigle Whiskey has earned recognition as the Most Awarded Craft Distillery by the American Craft Spirits Association and ranks among USA Today’s top 10 craft distilleries in America. The company maintains grain-to-glass production methods, sourcing from local farmers and hand-crafting each bottle.
The Americana Rye release coincides with growing interest in rye whiskey nationally. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, American rye whiskey volumes grew 1,157% between 2009 and 2021, though the category remains smaller than bourbon.
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