HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46) to designate rye whiskey as the official spirit of the commonwealth was approved this week by the State Government Committee.
Senate Bill 1248 recognizes Pennsylvania’s historic role in shaping America’s whiskey tradition while celebrating the commonwealth’s thriving craft distilling industry and agricultural heritage.
“Long before Kentucky became synonymous with bourbon, Pennsylvania rye whiskey set the standard for American distilling,” Bartolotta said. “This bill honors that remarkable legacy while recognizing the farmers, distillers and small businesses that continue to carry it forward today.”
From the late 18th century through the 1840s, Pennsylvania led the nation in whiskey production. Federal records and the 1810 Census of Manufactures confirm that Pennsylvania produced more whiskey than any other state. Rye was the primary grain, making it the style most closely linked to American whiskey in the nation’s early years.
The committee’s approval comes one week before the City of Washington’s annual Whiskey Rebellion Festival in the 46th Senatorial District. The 1794 Whiskey Rebellion, the nation’s first major tax protest after the adoption of the U.S. Constitution, took place in this region. The festival honors this history with reenactments, educational exhibits, live entertainment, local food vendors, and Pennsylvania-crafted spirits.
“I am grateful for my friends at Liberty Pole Spirits in Washington County along with a coalition of Pennsylvania rye whiskey distillers who brought this initiative to my attention,” Bartolotta said.
Senate Bill 1248 now advances to the full Senate for consideration.