Sazerac Rye

Distillery: Buffalo Trace

Age: No Age Statement (At least 4 years)

Proof: 90

Verdict: An approachable and respectable pour.

Score: 6.96

The first rye on the list is an approachable one.  Ryes are typically spicier and drier than bourbons, due to the differences in recipes.  While the Sazerac Rye mashbill is undisclosed, it’s believed that Saz has a lower rye content, while still hitting the minimum 51%.  Bourbon is, of course, a minimum of 51% corn, making it traditionally sweeter.  Regardless of your preferences, there aren’t many offensive or overpowering notes in this bottle. It has something for most fans of brown water, but not too much of anything.

On the nose I get cherry syrup and oranges.  There’s some clove and the ethanol is subtle.  The palate gets a little sweet caramel, vanilla, and a hint of fruitiness, apples or peaches maybe, followed by a flash of some peppery rye notes that balance it nicely.  The body is thin and the finish is quick, but it’s mostly refreshing rather than disappointing. The only drawback to Saz Rye is that it’s maybe slightly quick or unremarkable in its notes.

If you’re considering dipping your toes into the rye waters, this is not a bad one to start with or add to your shelf.  There’s an 18-year version in the antique collection that is very sought after to say the least. This one, though, at less than $30, is a fantastic value.  Sazerac Rye is a Buffalo Trace allocation but hasn’t been too hard to find in my experience.  It likely varies by area.  Here’s the cheapest shipped bottle I could locate:

It’s added to THE LIST.

Grizz