Sazerac Rye

About the Sazerac Rye

Sazerac Rye is an American rye whisky from the United States. The Sazerac Company makes it at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Few brands in American rye whisky carry this much history. The Sazerac name traces back to the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans. Rye became the city's spirit of choice in the mid-1800s. The Sazerac Company has been trading under that name since 1869. Buffalo Trace Distillery is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the country. That long tradition shapes every bottle of Sazerac Rye that leaves the warehouse. On the glass, the first thing you notice is the bold spice. Black pepper and anise come in early, followed by a wave of baking spice and clove. There is caramel underneath, and a thread of citrus that keeps things bright. Brown sugar edges its way through gradually as the spirit opens up. Dried fruit and a hint of cinnamon add depth as things develop. Sazerac Rye drinks best neat. At 45% ABV, it has enough weight to fill the glass without being heavy. The spice never tips into harshness. The finish carries warmth without bitterness. Cinnamon and clove linger long after the last sip. Jim Murray's Whisky Bible described Sazerac Rye as "any crisper and the glass would shatter." It is high praise from one of the most respected voices in the industry. This expression rewards a little patience and returns the attention you give it. Pour it slowly, nose it carefully first, and let the layers emerge on their own terms. It is a rye whisky worth taking your time with.