Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey honors the New Orleans bartender who first used rye whiskey in the classic Sazerac cocktail. This uncut, unfiltered straight rye is drawn straight from the barrel, continuing the bold tradition that helped define Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection.

The 2025 release is the youngest member of the 25th Anniversary Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, a 6-year-and-3-month Kentucky straight rye whiskey distilled in Spring 2018 and 2019 and matured on floors 4–7 of warehouses AA, DD, L, and N. Bottled at a formidable 129.8 proof (64.9% ABV), it delivers explosive rye spice, bright fruit, and concentrated barrel character in a powerful yet surprisingly nuanced profile.

Presented in the classic BTAC bottle, Thomas H. Handy 2025 is a centerpiece release for rye lovers and collectors who crave true barrel-proof intensity and the vibrant, high-rye style that made this whiskey legendary.

 

Specifications

• Age: 6 years, 3 months (distilled Spring 2018 & 2019, bottled Fall 2025)

• ABV: 64.9%

• Proof: 129.8 (barrel proof, uncut & unfiltered)

• Bottle Size: 750 ml

 

Features

• Uncut, unfiltered barrel-proof straight rye whiskey from Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection.

• Aged 6 years and 3 months for a vibrant, high-energy rye profile that still shows developed oak character.

• Bottled at 129.8 proof (64.9% ABV) for maximum flavor concentration and intensity.

• Part of the highly allocated 25th Anniversary BTAC lineup, released once per year in limited quantities.

• Crafted at the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery, a National Historic Landmark with roots dating back to the 18th century.

 

Why You’ll Love This

• You want a rye that showcases pure barrel strength with no dilution or chill-filtration.

• You enjoy explosive rye spice backed by layers of caramel, citrus, and oak.

• You’re building a serious BTAC or American whiskey collection and need a cornerstone rye expression.

• You appreciate younger, high-proof ryes that punch far above their age statement with energy and complexity.