Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Barrel Proof 2023 Release 124.9 Proof (62.45%) Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml)
Buffalo Trace Distillery has launched its award-winning Antique Collection for the fall 2023 season, showcasing the products that best represent the Distillery’s exceptional craftmanship and dedication to award-winning spirits. This year’s portfolio includes all five Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) staples: George T. Stagg Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey, William Larue Weller Bourbon, and a milestone for this year, the oldest Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon in the collection’s history. Although it was also released, no Sazerac Rye 18 year old was allocated.
Named after the New Orleans bartender who first used rye whiskey in the Sazerac Cocktail, this uncut and unfiltered Straight Rye Whiskey is bottled directly from the barrel for a powerful, lush and boldly spicy expression. It's a symbol of the history of New Orleans and the legacy of Thomas H. Handy.
Other reviews... The 2023 Thomas H. Handy expression is comprised of barrels aged for over six years. Initially launched in response to a consumer request for more well-aged and barrel-strength whiskey, this uncut, unfiltered straight rye whiskey clocks in at 124.9 proof. The flavor profile includes an aroma of orange zest and lemon oil, caramel, and hints of pine. On the palate, freshly baked rye bread spread with orange marmalade and honey appear first, followed by a lingering finish of light oak and black licorice...2023’s Thomas H. Handy makes a good showing like last year’s edition, with a bold, enjoyable flavor profile that’s on point for the brand...Being a barrel proof rye was highly unique at one point, but as we have seen an increasing number of barrel proof rye whiskeys come to market, Thomas H. Handy’s 6 year age and 120+ proof point has become increasingly less unique. With that being said, its flavor profile continues to be a one that demonstrates a fairly high degree of complexity for a barrel proof rye, and I’ve yet to find any other that can offer an even remotely similar combination of flavors. - breakingbourbon.com