Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye 2022 (75cl, 65.5%)

A Kentucky straight rye from Buffalo Trace in Frankfort, released in 2022 as part of the BTAC annual programme. It is named after Thomas H. Handy, who ran the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans in the late 19th century. This 750ml bottle is cask strength at 130.9 proof, or 65.45% ABV, and is bottled uncut and unfiltered. In the glass it is a bright amber. The nose is bold with rye spice, dried fruit, caramel and vanilla. The palate is powerful, with rye grain, dark fruit, brown sugar and warming spice, and the finish is long, with pepper, cinnamon and rye spice.