Sazerac Rye Whiskey Review

Tasting Notes

Nose: Clove and pepper with sweet vanilla and anise.

Palate: Candied spices and crisp citrus, with a rounded rye-spice character.

Finish: Smooth, with a lingering hint of licorice.

Summary

The standard Sazerac Straight Rye is a 90-proof (45% ABV) Kentucky straight rye made from a rye mash. Its official profile balances clove, pepper and anise with vanilla, citrus and a smooth licorice-led close; it is closely associated with the classic New Orleans Sazerac cocktail.

Interesting Facts

• The official profile specifies a rye mash and 90 proof (45% ABV).
• The brand traces the Sazerac cocktail to the Sazerac Coffee House on Royal Street in New Orleans, where rye-whiskey toddies with Peychaud’s Bitters became known as the Sazerac.
• Buffalo Trace’s official Sazerac cocktail recipe calls for Sazerac Rye, Peychaud’s Bitters, Herbsaint, sugar and a lemon peel.