Thomas Handy Rye 2023 124.9 Proof

Distilled at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is the uncut, unfiltered barrel-proof rye expression in the prestigious Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). Named in honor of the New Orleans bartender who first used rye whiskey in the classic Sazerac cocktail, the 2023 edition was distilled in the spring of 2017 and aged for 6 years and 2 months on the 4th floor of Warehouse S. Bottled raw at a fiery 62.45% ABV (124.9 proof), it delivers an explosive, full-throttle flavor profile packed with bold rye pepper, dark caramel, anise, and intense baking spices.

Food Pairing: Smoked beef brisket, dark chocolate pecan tart, blue cheese, venison steaks with a blackberry glaze, or slow-roasted pork belly.

Tasting Notes: Deep mahogany amber with brilliant clarity and long, thick, slow-creeping legs along the glass.

Nose: Bold and expressive, opening with dark brown sugar, candied orange peel, and fresh mint, followed by black pepper, star anise, toasted oak, and clove.

Palate: Full-bodied and intense on the palate, featuring rich caramel, cinnamon stick, and licorice upfront before exploding into rye spice, charred oak, pipe tobacco, and dark chocolate.

Finish: Exceptionally long, warm, and spicy with lingering notes of dark leather, drying wood char, sweet vanilla, and cracked peppercorn.

Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature in a Glencairn glass, or add a few drops of limestone water to soften the proof and unlock rich fruit and herbal layers.