Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock and Rye Whiskey Straight Rye with Citrus, Honey & Rock Candy

Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock and Rye is a bold revival of a 19th-century American tradition. Based on the historic Rock & Rye recipe—once a saloon staple and even a home remedy—this modern-day blend reimagines the spirit that once blurred the line between medicine and cocktail. Crafted in Philadelphia, the birthplace of Rock & Rye, Slow & Low uses straight rye whiskey as its foundation, then macerates it with orange peels, honey, and a touch of rock candy. The result is a ready-to-drink classic that’s equal parts nostalgic and fresh.

Originally poured by bartenders who let patrons add their own sweeteners and citrus, Rock & Rye gained a reputation for treating everything from sore throats to cold feet. Today, Slow & Low carries that same warmth—rooted in tradition, bottled with craft, and spiked with a whisper of horehound herb for a subtle medicinal edge. Bottled at 84 proof, it’s an Old Fashioned in a bottle—bold, spicy, citrusy, and sweet, ready to pour with zero fuss and full flavor.

Key Details:

• Brand: Hochstadter’s

• Type: Rock and Rye (Straight Rye Whiskey with citrus, honey & rock candy)

• ABV: 42% (84 proof)

• Base: Straight Rye Whiskey

• Infused With: Orange peel, raw honey, rock candy, horehound

• Origin: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Bottle Size: 750ml

Tasting Notes:

• Nose:
  Orange zest, spiced rye, and sweet herbal undertones

• Palate:
  Spicy rye backbone balanced by citrus, honey, and a touch of rock candy

• Finish:
  Warm and lingering with hints of bittersweet orange, herbal lozenge, and honey

Best Enjoyed:

• Neat or over a large rock—no mixing required

• For fans of classic cocktails and whiskey newcomers alike

• Paired with: BBQ, candied nuts, or a front porch sunset

Why Choose Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock and Rye?

Because it’s more than a cocktail—it’s American history in a bottle. Slow & Low brings back a forgotten classic with authentic ingredients and bold character, perfect for drinkers who appreciate pre-Prohibition flavor and effortless serving. Whether you're sipping solo or passing the bottle around, this is tradition done right.

FAQ:

1. Is this a cocktail or a flavored whiskey?
It’s technically both. Slow & Low starts with straight rye whiskey and is infused with orange peel, honey, rock candy, and horehound—making it a ready-to-drink cocktail based on the traditional Rock & Rye recipe.

2. How should I serve Slow & Low?
It’s pre-mixed and ready to pour. Serve it neat, over ice, or with a splash of soda or ginger ale. No need for added mixers—everything is already balanced in the bottle.

3. Is it sweet or strong?
Both. At 84 proof, it delivers a respectable kick, but the rock candy and honey smooth out the rye spice for a mellow, slightly sweet finish that appeals to both whiskey lovers and cocktail fans.

The Old Fashioned has been the #1 selling cocktail for 6 years straight. Showing no sign of waning, this classis is picking up pace.

"An unlikely blend of rye whiskey and rock candy syrup, with an array of citrus and other flavors typically thrown in, rock and rye was a barroom staple for much of the latter 19th century, often taken for “what ails you.” This distinctly American liqueur is back, in a small way, with some added cachet." — The New York Times

"A straightforward, spicy rye with a mini-chord of orange peel that makes a fine traditional Old Fashioned sing with a hint of honey." — Tasting Panel