Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye 2023 124.9 Proof

124.9 proof. Cask strength. Uncut. Unfiltered. Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye 2023 — the most recent annual BTAC straight rye expression, named for the New Orleans proprietor who popularized America's first cocktail.

Thomas H. Handy was the proprietor of the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans in the late 19th century, credited with popularizing the Sazerac — officially the cocktail of New Orleans and recognized as America's first cocktail. The 2023 at 124.9 proof is one of the lower-proof Handy releases in recent years — the 2016 was 126.2, the 2022 was 130.9. Despite the relatively lower proof, it delivers the full cask-strength straight rye character uncut and unfiltered.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Bold rye spice, dried fruit, caramel, and vanilla at cask strength intensity.
• Palate: Powerful — rye grain, dark fruit, brown sugar, and warming spice.
• Finish: Long and assertive — pepper, cinnamon, and rye spice.

Specs

• Distillery: Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, Kentucky
• Style: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Proof: 124.9 (62.45% ABV)
• Bottling: Cask strength, uncut, unfiltered
• Release: 2023 BTAC Annual Release
• Size: 750ml

Explore the full Thomas H. Handy collection or browse all rye whiskey at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does 124.9 proof compare to other Handy vintages? Handy proof ranges roughly 123–132 historically. At 124.9 the 2023 is on the lower end — slightly more approachable than high-proof vintages like the 2016 (126.2) or 2022 (130.9).
• Is the 2023 Handy still available? Yes — the most recent BTAC Handy vintage.
• How does Handy compare to Sazerac 18 Year? Sazerac 18 Year is aged 18 years — mature and elegant. Handy is younger at full cask strength — bolder and more assertive. Together they show the full range of American rye.