The Thomas H. Handy Sazerac rye is an interesting outlier in the Antique Collection, as it doesn't boast an impressive age statement like its counterparts. While the other releases in the collection have ages ranging from 12 to 18 years, the Thomas Handy is a mere 6 years old.
Now, at first glance, this might not seem like something that would catch my attention as a sommelier and brewer. After all, we often associate older age with higher quality when it comes to whiskey. However, I've come to realize that age isn't the be-all and end-all when it comes to determining the worth of a spirit.
In fact, I've had the pleasure of trying the Thomas Handy Sazerac rye on several occasions, and I must say, it has left quite an impression on me. Despite its relatively young age, this rye whiskey manages to pack a punch in terms of flavor and complexity.
One of the things that stands out to me about the Thomas Handy is its intense spiciness. The rye grain really shines through, with notes of black pepper, cinnamon, and clove dancing on the palate. It's a bold and robust whiskey that demands your attention.
But it's not just the spiciness that makes this whiskey intriguing. There are also layers of sweetness and fruitiness that balance out the heat. I've detected hints of caramel, vanilla, and even some dark fruits like cherry and plum. It's a harmonious combination of flavors that keeps me coming back for more.
Now, I must admit that I initially had some reservations about the age of the Thomas Handy. As a lover of well-aged spirits, I tend to gravitate towards whiskies with double-digit age statements. But after tasting this rye whiskey, I realized that age doesn't always equate to quality.
In fact, the relatively young age of the Thomas Handy allows the vibrant and bold flavors to shine through in a way that might be muted in a more mature whiskey. There's a freshness and liveliness to this rye that I find incredibly appealing.
So, while the Thomas Handy Sazerac rye may not have the same age as its counterparts in the Antique Collection, it certainly holds its own when it comes to flavor and character. It's a testament to the fact that age isn't everything when it comes to whiskey, and sometimes a young spirit can surprise and delight in ways you wouldn't expect.