When it comes to providing a tasteful experience tailored to whiskey lovers — and those who don’t know they’re whiskey lovers yet — the owners of Winchester & Rye in Victoria have their pairings down to a science.
The story of Winchester & Rye began with whiskey. And a family history steeped in it. “My great-grandparents made rye-and-corn whiskey during Prohibition, so when we created the restaurant, a real whiskey lounge felt like a natural part of it,” shares Kim Heenie, who co-owns the restaurant with her husband, Kevin. “Rye will always have a special place here. It’s literally in our name. My business is based on my family — her sister was a distiller at a local distillery — my friends, and our strong community ties.” And because family, friends, and community are at the heart of their story, they aim to offer a diverse selection so that everyone can find something interesting that appeals to them.
With so many whiskeys to choose from, what makes it sip-worthy?
“First and foremost, it has to taste good. We look for quality and character, but also balance across the list. Different styles, proofs, and price points, along with bottles that allow our guests to try something they may not have had before.” If you’re not a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, don’t worry, they have something for you, too. “I’ll usually ask what they don’t like about it. Whiskey has such a broad range of flavors that someone who dislikes a high-proof or very oak-forward bourbon may love a softer, sweeter whiskey, or discover that they enjoy whiskey in the right cocktail.”
If you’re having trouble deciding what to order, Kim says that their Old Fashioned and Manhattan are big winners–literally! They both won Silver in the Star Tribune’s Minnesota’s Best Awards this year. Kim believes this reflects their respect for the classics, use of good ingredients, and the craftsmanship that goes into bringing each cocktail to the bar. That balance is key to their other cocktails, too, with flavors like citrus, cherries, blackberries, warm spices, and, she says, just enough sweetness.
“There isn’t much to hide behind in an Old Fashioned, so the whiskey has to carry it. It’s simple enough that you can still taste the character of the spirit, with just enough sweetness and bitters to frame it.” Adding another layer, the team creates their own simple syrup with fresh rosemary, orange, cinnamon, vanilla, and cherry.
Food pairings are also part of the signature formula at Winchester & Rye. “Our food has a lot of flavors that naturally work with whiskey — wood-fired pizza, grilled meats, spice and richer savory dishes.” Specifically, she says flavors like smoke, char, caramelization, warm spices, cherries, and other dark fruits are natural partners. “Salt and acidity are important too, as they can make both the whiskey and the food taste brighter.” For a bold pairing, try ordering their Coffee Chile-Rubbed Filet with an Old Fashioned. Kim explains that the char and richness of the steak work with the oak and caramel notes in the whiskey, while the coffee and chile add a layer of bitterness and spice.
When it comes down to it, Kim says that you don’t have to be a whiskey expert to enjoy it, and there isn’t one correct way to drink it. “Neat, on the rocks, with a little water or in a great cocktail: the best whiskey is the one you enjoy drinking.”
winchesterandrye.com