In the near future, I will introduce legislation to establish Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey as the official spirit of the Commonwealth.

Rye whiskey has deep roots in our state’s history.  Long before Kentucky Bourbon rose to prominence, Pennsylvania distillers were defining the American whiskey tradition with bold, spicy Monongahela-style Rye.  That legacy continues today, as craft distillers across the Commonwealth are once again producing exceptional rye whiskeys using local grain and traditional methods.

Whiskey has a unique history in Western Pennsylvania, which includes the Whiskey Rebellion that took place in Washington County in 1794.  To this day, the City of Washington, Pennsylvania annually holds a festival to recognize the significance of this historical event.  Whiskey Point, located at the intersection of Main Street and Park Avenue in Monongahela, Washington County, was the location of the meeting of 226 whiskey rebels that resulted in the peaceful ending of the Whiskey Rebellion. 

To be considered Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey, it must contain at least 60% rye grain and 75% of all grains used must be grown by Pennsylvania farmers.  Further, the whiskey must be sweet-mashed, reflecting historic Pennsylvania production techniques.  The whiskey must be entered into the barrel at no higher than 110 proof, to preserve the full-bodied character that is traditional to Pennsylvania rye.  Finally, it must be mashed, fermented, distilled, aged and bottled entirely within the boundaries of the Commonwealth. 

These parameters honor both the heritage of Pennsylvania distilling, including support for local agriculture and small business, and the strengthening of the state’s reputation for craftsmanship.

Please join me in recognizing the historical importance of Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey by cosponsoring this legislation to name it as the official spirit of the Commonwealth.