Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey is a groundbreaking American whiskey from San Francisco’s Anchor Distilling Company, created as a tribute to the earliest days of American distilling. Developed in the 1990s by Fritz Maytag, Old Potrero was one of the first craft whiskeys to emerge in the modern era and remains a pioneer in the revival of rye, the original grain spirit of America. Unlike mass-produced ryes, Old Potrero emphasizes authenticity, small-batch production, and traditional methods that reflect what rye whiskey might have tasted like in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Crafted from 100% malted rye, this whiskey showcases the bold, spicy character of the grain in its purest form. It is distilled in traditional copper pot stills—rare in American whiskey production—which allows for greater control and a more nuanced, flavorful spirit. After distillation, the whiskey is matured in new charred American oak barrels, where it develops structure, depth, and balance. Bottled at 97.2 proof, Old Potrero Straight Rye delivers intensity while remaining smooth and approachable.

What sets Old Potrero apart is its dedication to authenticity. By using a mash bill composed entirely of malted rye and employing pot still distillation, the brand distinguishes itself from the vast majority of rye whiskies on the market. The result is a spirit with layered spice, toasted grain character, and a robust oak influence that speaks directly to America’s whiskey roots.

Presentation reflects its artisanal origins, with a distinctive bottle shape and labeling that underscores its small-batch identity. For collectors and enthusiasts, Old Potrero is more than just another rye—it is both a piece of American distilling history and a modern benchmark for craftsmanship.

For whiskey lovers, Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey represents a true original: bold, historic, and uncompromising. It is a whiskey that captures the spirit of America’s past while standing proudly in today’s craft movement.