Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey 2023 Release - Bourbon Brothers Australia
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey 2023 Release - Bourbon Brothers Australia

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey 2025 Release

$1,199.00
Overview

Highly sought after and extremely limited, Thomas H. Handy 2025 is a collector’s dream and a whiskey lover’s delight..

The 2025 Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey is an unfiltered, barrel-proof rye that embodies the bold and robust spirit of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection. Known for its intense spice, rich sweetness, and complex character, this limited-edition release is a must-have for rye whiskey enthusiasts.

Bottled at 129.8 proof (64.9% ABV), the 2025 Thomas Handy Rye delivers an explosive nose of dark fruit, anise, black currant, Red Hot candy, and citrus zest. The palate follows with heavy raisin, dried apricot, cinnamon, and liquorice, balanced by a silky, mouth-coating texture. The long, warming finish lingers with rye spice, fennel, caramel, and honey, creating a perfect blend of heat and sweetness.

As a tribute to Thomas H. Handy, the bartender who helped popularise the Sazerac cocktail, this whiskey is a true celebration of America’s rich rye whiskey heritage. The 2025 edition stays true to its legacy, offering big, bold flavours that stand out in any collection.

Whether enjoyed neat or in a classic rye cocktail, this expression delivers an unparalleled whiskey experience.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Dark fruit, anise, black currant, Red Hot candy, and citrus zest.

Palate: Heavy raisin, dried apricot, cinnamon, and liquorice, balanced by a silky, mouth-coating texture.

Finish: The long, warming finish lingers with rye spice, fennel, caramel, and honey, creating a perfect blend of heat and sweetness.

Distillery Information

Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky is one of the most awarded distilleries in the world. Thomas H. Handy comes out once a year as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, alongside bottles like George T. Stagg and William Larue Weller. It's named after the New Orleans bartender who first swapped brandy for rye whiskey in the Sazerac cocktail back in 1873, and the whiskey still carries that same bold, spicy character.

Awards & Recognition

  • Gold, International Wine & Spirits Competition, 2025
  • Gold, Global Whiskey Challenge, 2024
  • Gold, International Wine & Spirits Competition, 2024
  • Double Gold, Whiskies of the World, 2024
  • Gold, American Whiskey Masters, 2024
  • 94.5 points, David Broom
  • 5 stars, Highest Recommendation, F. Paul Pacult's Spirit Journal

Who this bottle is for
  • Rye drinkers after the boldest, spiciest pour on the shelf
  • Bourbon fans ready to step up to barrel proof
  • Buffalo Trace Antique Collection chasers filling out the set
  • Anyone after a genuinely allocated bottle, not just a label that says limited
How to enjoy

  • Best neat to get the full barrel proof kick
  • A splash of water opens up the spice and fruit
  • Great for sharing. One pour and everyone will have an opinion

Why we curate it

Thomas H. Handy doesn't get the same hype as some of its Antique Collection siblings, but it's one of the boldest, most honest ryes going. Full proof, no filtering, no shortcuts. If you can get your hands on a bottle, it's worth having.