Thomas H Handy Rye BTAC 2018 Release - 128.8 Proof 75cl

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye is an uncut, unfiltered Kentucky straight rye and is one of five bottlings in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection released each fall.

Thomas H. Handy is the uncut and unfiltered straight rye whiskey. "Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2018" named previous years' releases "Best Rye Whiskey with no age statement.

This year's Handy was distilled in the spring of 2012; aged in warehouses I and L and weighs in at 128.8 proof.

The flavour profile includes hints of allspice, teaberry, and clove.

Nose: Cedar comes through initially along with dark spices and tea leaves. Upon further tastes, sweet corn and vanilla peak in from time to time.

Palate: On the palate, the dark flavors of rye spice take over with some cigar smoke and rope. Adding a few drops of water, of course, opens up the whiskey and provides more sweetness both on the nose and taste.

Finish: The finish is filled with baking spices, particularly cardamom and star anise and a more savory than sweet profile.