Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey Collection

Buffalo Trace Antique Collection – Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey

Why Handy Is Special

Thomas H. Handy was the New Orleans bar owner who swapped brandy for rye in the Sazerac cocktail back in the 1800s. Buffalo Trace honors him with an annual barrel‑proof rye released each autumn as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Flask has carried every vintage since 2006 and tasted each one over the years.

How the Whiskey Evolves

Proofs swing wildly—from 134.8° in 2007 to 124.9° in 2023—because Buffalo Trace bottles each batch uncut. The chart below tracks the spike years (2007, 2012) alongside the softer seasons (2019‑2020). Volume is tiny: fewer than 20 barrels a year, aged six to eight years in Warehouse K.

Flavor & Serving Tips

Expect a rush of clove, candied fig, and peppermint that punches above its age statement. Give it a 10‑minute rest and a drop of water to unlock toasted coconut and allspice on the mid‑palate. Pair with pecan tart — Handy’s own choice — a classic Sazerac served down.

Recent Awards

• 2023: Double Gold – NY World Wine & Spirits Competition
• 2023: MASTER – Luxury Masters Asia
• 2023: Master – American Whiskey Masters
• 2022: Second Finest Whisky in the World – Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible

Handy FAQ

• Why does proof change every year? Barrel strength is bottled as‑is, so evaporation and climate push it up or down.
• How many bottles are released? Typically under 20 barrels, which nets about 12,000 bottles worldwide.