Thomas Handy Sazerac Rye is a highly sought-after whiskey that is produced by the Sazerac Company, which is the parent company of Buffalo Trace Distillery. The Sazerac Company has a rich history in the spirits industry, and Thomas H. Handy, the founder of the company, is honored through this exceptional rye whiskey.
The Sazerac Company is known for its dedication to producing high-quality spirits, and Thomas Handy Rye is no exception. It is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which is a series of limited edition whiskeys that are highly regarded among whiskey enthusiasts. Each bottle is carefully crafted in small batches to ensure exceptional quality and flavor.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Thomas Handy Rye on several occasions. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into every bottle is truly remarkable. The flavor profile of this rye whiskey is complex and robust, with notes of spice, caramel, and oak. It has a rich and full-bodied texture that coats the palate, leaving a lingering warmth and satisfaction.
One of the unique aspects of Thomas Handy Rye is its high proof. It is bottled at barrel proof, which means it is not diluted with water before bottling. This allows the whiskey to retain its natural strength and intensity, resulting in a bold and powerful flavor experience. It is important to note that this high proof may not be suitable for everyone, and it is recommended to enjoy this whiskey responsibly and in moderation.
The production process of Thomas Handy Rye involves careful selection of the grains, fermentation, distillation, and aging in charred oak barrels. The rye used in this whiskey is sourced from the United States and undergoes a meticulous milling and mashing process to extract the sugars necessary for fermentation. The mash is then fermented using a specific strain of yeast, which contributes to the unique flavor profile of the whiskey.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled in copper stills to produce a high-proof spirit. The distillate is then aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of six years. During the aging process, the whiskey interacts with the wood, absorbing flavors and characteristics that enhance its complexity and depth. The barrels are stored in warehouses, where they are subjected to the changing seasons, further influencing the maturation process.
Once the whiskey has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully selected, blended, and bottled. Each bottle of Thomas Handy Rye is individually numbered and hand-labeled, adding a personal touch to the final product. The small batch nature of this whiskey ensures consistency and attention to detail, making it a truly exceptional spirit.
Thomas Handy Rye is a remarkable whiskey made by the Sazerac Company, which is the parent company of Buffalo Trace Distillery. It is crafted with precision and passion, paying homage to the legacy of Thomas H. Handy. The high proof, complex flavor profile, and meticulous production process make this rye whiskey a true gem in the world of spirits.