Rye Whiskey Review · Buffalo Trace Antique Collection
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye
Uncut, Unfiltered Straight Rye Whiskey — Annual Release
The Story
Thomas H. Handy is the rye version of George T. Stagg — barrel proof, unfiltered, dropped once a year as part of the BTAC lineup. It's only about six years old, which for barrel-proof rye is basically still a teenager, but the proof cranks up everything the mashbill's got — pepper, grain, all of it — into something way bigger than its age has any right to be. Named after the guy credited with inventing the Sazerac cocktail, which feels like a fitting flex.
Nose, Palate & Finish
Nose
Loud. Pepper, mint, and grain hit first, with the proof making sure you notice. It's a lot, but it's a good lot.
Palate
Serious rye spice right out of the gate — pepper, a sharp grainy bite, some heat from the proof. There's sweetness under there too, but you have to work for it a little.
Finish
Very long, spicy, and warm — the pepper and heat just keep going. The sweetness taps out early and leaves a dry, serious finish that lasts.