Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye 63.45 abv 2015 750ml

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac

is a distinguished straight rye whiskey produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, celebrated for its rich history and robust flavor profile. This whiskey is part of the prestigious Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and is known for being uncut and unfiltered, allowing it to retain the full character of the rye. The whiskey pays homage to Thomas H. Handy, a pivotal figure in the history of the Sazerac cocktail, who popularized rye whiskey as a key ingredient in this iconic drink.

Historical Significance

The story of Thomas H. Handy Sazerac is deeply intertwined with the origins of the Sazerac cocktail itself. The cocktail was created in New Orleans in the mid-19th century by Antoine Peychaud, who developed a recipe that combined brandy with his proprietary bitters. However, as brandy became less accessible due to various historical events, bartenders began substituting rye whiskey for brandy, leading to the modern version of the Sazerac cocktail we know today.

Thomas H. Handy was born in 1830 and became an influential bartender at the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans. He eventually purchased the establishment and made significant contributions to its legacy by altering the original cocktail recipe to include American rye whiskey instead of French brandy around 1873. This change not only enhanced the drink’s flavor but also helped establish rye whiskey as a staple spirit in American cocktails.

Production Details

Distillation and Aging

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac is crafted using a mash bill that is assumed to be approximately 51% rye, although specific percentages are undisclosed by Buffalo Trace Distillery. The whiskey undergoes traditional distillation processes before being aged for over six years in charred oak barrels, which imparts complex flavors and aromas.

Bottling Characteristics

The whiskey is bottled at barrel proof without any dilution or chill filtration, which preserves its natural flavors and intensity. Recent releases have varied slightly in proof; for instance, the 2023 release was bottled at 124.9 proof (62.45% ABV), while the upcoming 2024 release boasts an even higher proof of 127.2 (63.6% ABV). This high alcohol content contributes to its bold character while still allowing for a nuanced tasting experience.

Tasting Notes

Aroma Profile

Upon nosing Thomas H. Handy Sazerac, one can expect an intricate bouquet that includes notes of molasses, cherry pits, wood spices, marshmallow, praline, allspice, turmeric, and hints of bubblegum among other aromas like orange peel and magnolia flowers1. These elements create a delightful sensory experience that sets expectations high for what follows on the palate.

Flavor Experience

The palate delivers an explosion of fruit flavors with zesty navel orange taking center stage alongside supporting notes such as cherry, plum, pear, white grape, and grapefruit1. Each sip reveals layers of sweetness balanced with spice and creaminess reminiscent of desserts like lemon yogurt or thin mint candy1. The mouthfeel is thick and creamy with a long-lasting finish that leaves behind traces of raspberry and candied fruit2.

Reception

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac has garnered acclaim within both consumer circles and industry competitions alike; it has received accolades such as Double Gold at prestigious spirits competitions3. Whiskey enthusiasts often regard it as one of the standout expressions within Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection due to its exceptional quality and complexity.

Conclusion

In summary, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac represents not just a remarkable spirit but also a piece of American cocktail history that continues to evolve while honoring its roots. Its combination of rich flavors, historical significance, and high-quality production makes it a sought-after choice among collectors and connoisseurs alike.