Sazerac Straight Rye
In New Orleans, the Sazerac is not a cocktail but an institution – and the Sazerac Company, which bears its name, now owns Buffalo Trace. This Rye is its house brand: an original bottling without an age statement, fondly called “Baby Saz” by collectors because the big brother Sazerac 18 from the Antique Collection is practically impossible to get. The question remains, one that arises with every affordable Rye: neat in the glass or rather in the mixing glass? For Sascha and Florian, it is their first joint review.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, the whiskey starts with light fruits that immediately create a friendly, open aromatic profile. Oak and vanilla join in, giving the opening structure and a gentle sweetness. Herbal notes, especially menthol, add a fresh, slightly distinctive accent and lend the overall impression character.
Palate
On the palate, the rye spice is clearly at the center and distinctly shapes the character. Vanilla accompanies this spice with a soft, sweet side, while the overall impression feels juicy. Caramel rounds out the profile and ties sweetness and spice together into a harmonious, uncomplicated overall impression.
Finish
The finish is medium-long and begins with a noticeable oak note. It then develops a distinct caramel character and is reminiscent of cherry candies. A warming aftertaste remains and gives the finale a pleasant presence.
Thoughts
Sascha77/100 - (Very good)
Fundamentally solid – which, for a Rye in this price range, is more praise than it sounds. Sweetness and spiciness are nicely balanced, neither side pushes itself forward, and the rye still remains clearly recognizable. It is precisely this balance that makes it a grateful candidate for cocktails: it does not get lost in them, but it does not resist either.
More about Sascha →
Florian75/100 - (Very good)
For me, this is a whiskey for late at night around the campfire in good company – for the hour when no one feels like picking apart every nuance anymore. It is not particularly complex, but a lovely interplay of sweetness and spiciness carries it from the nose through to the warming aftertaste. Not a dram you discuss all evening long, but one that fits exactly when the conversation is focused elsewhere.
More about Florian →Value for Money: 4/5 (Good)
Discover our value for money winnersRelated Reviews
Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky
While the whisky world looks spellbound to Scotland and Kentucky, something special is brewing in the far north of Canada. Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky from Corby Spirit and Wine Ltd. is not just another rye – it is a statement.
Bulleit 95 Rye
With Bulleit, Diageo presents whiskies with the rough image of the Wild West. In addition to two bourbons, the distillery, which as far as we know now actually distils itself, also offers a rye. In this case, the 95 on the label refers to the rye content of the mash bill, which is a whopping 95%. Unusually high, as you often get the "barely legal" rye with 51% rye.
Balcones Texas Rye
Balcones use several types of rye in the mash for their Texas Rye. These include Elbon rye from the north-west of Texas as well as crystal, chocolate and roasted rye.
High West Double Rye Whiskey
The High West Distillery is located in Utah - a state that is usually better known for Mormons and skiing than for whiskey. But hey, sometimes the best surprises come from the most unexpected places! The distillery is located in the Wasatch-Uinta Mountains and is the first legal distillery in Utah since 1870. The Double Rye with its 46% vol. is, as the name suggests, double: two different rye whiskeys are married here. It's like pairing two different herb gardens together and hoping they get along well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sazerac Straight Rye generally taste like?
It shows a spicy profile with rye spice, vanilla, caramel, and a sweetly juicy character. On the nose, light fruits, oak, and herbal menthol notes are added.
How long is the finish of Sazerac Straight Rye?
The finish is medium-long. It starts with oak, then becomes strongly caramel-like, recalls cherry candies, and fades out warmly.
Is Sazerac Straight Rye also suitable for cocktails?
Yes, according to Sascha, its thoroughly solid character and the nice balance of sweetness and spiciness make it well suited for use in cocktails as well.
