Pikesville Straight Rye is a robust, full-bodied rye whiskey poured at Grappa in Queen Anne, Seattle, a higher-strength expression with deep roots in the historic Maryland-style tradition. It is a confident, characterful pour for those who appreciate a rye with real presence.

About the Distillery

Pikesville traces its origins to Maryland in the 1890s, where it was a celebrated rye before Prohibition shuttered the region’s once-booming industry. The brand survived as the last standing Maryland rye and is now produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, which keeps the historic Maryland mark alive using extra-aged barrels drawn from prime warehouse locations.

Style & Mash Bill

This is a straight rye in the Maryland style, built on a mash bill led by rye with a notable measure of corn and a smaller portion of malted barley. That Maryland approach, mostly rye with a generous share of corn, traditionally yields a profile that is a touch sweeter and more supple than the driest, spiciest ryes. Bottled at a higher strength, it carries that character with bold, concentrated intensity.

Tasting Notes

Pikesville offers earthy cocoa and a wisp of oaky smoke on the nose, leading into a palate that is dry and spicy yet brightened by honeyed rye, clove and warm baking spices. Soft vanilla rounds out a long, full finish. Its higher strength lends weight and depth, rewarding a few drops of water or a single large cube.

What to Pair It With

Its strength and spice call for equally bold plates. Pair it with our American Wagyu Steaks for a rich, satisfying match, or with the Spicy Sausage Rigatoni to play the whiskey’s spice against the dish’s heat. A Charcuterie Board also makes a fine companion. Explore the full dine-in menu for more pairings.

How It’s Served at Grappa

We pour Pikesville Straight Rye neat or on the rocks at $14, letting its bold, full-bodied character shine.

FAQ

Where is it from?

Pikesville began in Maryland in the 1890s and is now produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, preserving the historic Maryland rye tradition.

What does it taste like?

It tastes of earthy cocoa and a hint of oaky smoke, with dry, honeyed rye spice, clove and soft vanilla on a long, full finish.

Is it a spicy rye?

Yes, it is a bold, higher-strength rye with real spice, though its Maryland-style recipe lends a slightly sweeter, more supple edge than the driest ryes.

When you are ready to join us, book a table, browse the cocktail & spirits list, and the dine-in menu.