Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is a top American whiskey. It's part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. This collection is well-known and limited. Whiskey lovers and collectors from all over the world seek it. The whiskey is strong and complex. It's straight rye, uncut and unfiltered.
Historical Background
This whiskey honours Thomas Handy, a New Orleans bartender. He created the Sazerac cocktail in the 19th century. Handy ran the Sazerac Coffee House from 1869. There, he used rye whiskey instead of the original cognac in the "Sazerac Cocktail". This made rye popular in the cocktail. It also made the Sazerac a New Orleans classic and a key cocktail.
Production and Profile
The whiskey has a lot of rye, making it bold and spicy. It's made at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky. This distillery has a long history, dating back to the late 1700s. It's known for traditional and modern whiskey-making.
The whiskey ages for 6 to 8 years in new American oak barrels. This gives it a deep colour and rich flavour. It's bottled straight from the barrel. It's often over 125 proof, making it strong and flavourful.
Tasting Notes
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is known for its intense taste. You might smell caramel and citrus, with a strong rye spice and dark fruit hints. It tastes like cinnamon, anise, and allspice, with caramelised sugar and dried fruit. It feels rich and leads to a long finish with spice, oak, and sweetness.
Awards and Recognition
This whiskey has won many awards. It's often highly rated in competitions and by critics. It's known for showing the best of rye whiskey.
Collectability and Demand
Like other whiskies in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, it's released once a year in limited amounts. This makes it very sought after. Bottles can sell for much more than their original price.
Enjoyment and Pairings
It's best sipped neat to enjoy its flavours. Some add water or ice to soften it. It's also great for making a premium Sazerac cocktail.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is a tribute to Thomas Handy and the cocktail tradition. It shows the spirit of innovation and respect for history at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Each bottle celebrates the spicy nature of rye whiskey and Handy's impact on cocktails.