As a sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that Sazerac Rye is indeed a rare find. There are two versions of this whiskey, both of which can be quite elusive to come across. The first is the limited edition 18-year-old version, which is part of Buffalo Trace's highly sought-after “Antique Collection.” This collection features some of the most coveted and hard-to-find whiskeys in the world. The 18-year-old Sazerac Rye is no exception, with its age lending it a complexity and depth of flavor that whiskey enthusiasts crave.
The second version of Sazerac Rye is the 6-year-old expression, often affectionately referred to as “Baby Saz” in New Orleans. While not as rare as its older counterpart, it can still be quite difficult to find. This younger version offers a slightly different flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, clove, anise, and pepper. It's a fantastic whiskey in its own right, but it's often overshadowed by the allure of its older sibling.
In my personal experience, I have encountered a few challenges in locating bottles of Sazerac Rye. I've had to scour specialty liquor stores, attend whiskey auctions, and even reach out to fellow whiskey enthusiasts in order to track down a bottle. It's not a whiskey that you can simply walk into any store and find on the shelf. Its scarcity adds to its appeal and makes it all the more desirable for collectors and aficionados.
One of the reasons why Sazerac Rye is so hard to find is its popularity. As more and more people discover the world of whiskey and develop a taste for high-quality rye, the demand for exceptional expressions like Sazerac Rye continues to rise. This increased demand, coupled with limited production quantities, creates a situation where the supply simply cannot keep up. Whiskey enthusiasts are constantly on the lookout for rare and unique bottles, and Sazerac Rye certainly fits the bill.
Additionally, the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which includes the 18-year-old Sazerac Rye, is released only once a year in limited quantities. This means that even if you manage to find a store that carries it, there's no guarantee they will have it in stock. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the release of these whiskeys often leads to long lines and frenzied buying, further contributing to their scarcity.
Sazerac Rye is indeed hard to find. Whether you're searching for the limited edition 18-year-old version or the 6-year-old “Baby Saz,” you may have to put in some effort and be patient in your quest. But for those lucky enough to get their hands on a bottle, the reward is a whiskey that is truly exceptional in flavor and craftsmanship.