Sazerac Rye whiskey gained fame along with the Sazerac Coffee House when it was used for America’s first cocktail – the Sazerac. But there is something more to this rye whiskey than being a cocktail base.
Here’s our detailed review on Baby Saz, from Sazerac rye whiskey price to its tasting notes. Scroll down!
What’s Sazerac Rye Whiskey?
Sazerac rye whiskey is a pride of Buffalo Trace Distillery and is well known for being the cocktail base for America’s first cocktail, Sazerac. The rye whiskey is a New Orleans original whiskey that symbolizes the history and tradition of the Big Easy in Louisiana.
Sazerac rye whiskey has interesting tasting notes that complement well with cocktails. It has a rich history, production process, mash bill, age statement, and a well-founded distillery.
Fun Facts
History & Origin
Sazerac rye whiskey has a rich heritage and bright future that began in the 1630s in its French origins when the Sazerac family established their distillery in Cognac Region.
From 1850 to 1900, Sazerac continuously grew and prospered before the prohibition [1] stirred things up.
From 1950 until today, Sazerac continuously expanded and grew; in 2006, Sazerac launched the Sazerac rye whiskey. It has the same packaging as the original 1800s bottle used to make the Sazerac cocktail on Royal Street.
Production Process
The mash bill for Sazerac rye is cooked, fermented, and distilled in the Buffalo Trace distillery. Since it is a rye whiskey, Buffalo Trace should make it from a grain mixture that contains at least 51% rye.
It is distilled in not over 80% ABV and aged in new charred oak barrels for six years.
Age Statement
Sazerac rye whiskey does not carry an age statement, but it is presumably matured for six years in new charred oak barrels. The maturation gives the rye whiskey its appearance and mellow flavor profile.
Mash Bill
Buffalo Trace is very secretive regarding the mash bill ratio, but one thing is for sure: Sazerac rye whiskey uses the Buffalo Trace Rye Whiskey Mash Bill.
Generally, the mash bill contains roughly 51% rye, a bridge between a high rye mash bill and bourbon flavor profile. The same mash bill is also used for other Sazerac expressions. Here’s the best way to drink rye whiskey.
Ownership & Distillery
Sazerac rye whiskey is owned by Sazerac Company, Inc., a private American alcoholic beverage company based in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is the home of over 450 brands of spirits across the globe.
Sazerac rye is distilled in Buffalo Trace Distillery, owned by Sazerac Company Inc., along with other prestigious brands like George T. Stagg, E.H Taylor, Van Winkle, and many more.
Tasting Notes
- Palate – Pronounced notes of spice, candies, crisp citrus, peppermint spice, and honey sweetness
- Nose – A rich aroma of clove, anise, persistent peppermint, sweet vanilla, honey, and caramel
- Color/Hue – Light caramel
- Finish – Smooth, big with hints of licorice, rye, oak, and warm nutmeg
Common Sazerac Rye Whiskey Price
| Type | Size | Alcohol By Volume | Average Price |
| Sazerac Rye Whiskey | 750 ml | 45% | $33.99 |
| 1.75 L | $49.99 |
*Average prices are based on Drizly online. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.
Compared to Other Rye Whiskeys
Knob Creek Rye Whiskey
Knob Creek rye whiskey can be a budget-friendly alternative to Sazerac rye whiskey. For roughly $37.39 on Drizly, you can taste its unique flavor profile that blends well in cocktails.
Moreso, Knob Creek is made in small batches, so it surely maintains the rich and bold flavor of the spirit.
Rittenhouse Rye
If you want a cheaper alternative for Sazerac rye whiskey, go with Rittenhouse Rye for around $28.99 per 750 ml bottle on Drizly. It is a Bottled-in-Bond rye whiskey with a distinct spicy flavor that you will surely enjoy.
It is the go-to choice of mixologists and whiskey enthusiasts who want a kick in their cocktail.
Old Overholt Rye Whiskey
Old Overholt rye whiskey is a bottom-shelf rye whiskey that you can try for approximately $19.99 on Drizly.
It is cheaper than Sazerac rye and Rittenhouse, so if you want something affordable, you can try this rye whiskey.
Read: Rye Whiskey vs Bourbon
The Classic Sazerac Cocktail Recipe
Prep Time: 3 mins
Total Time: 3 mins
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Sazerac rye
- 1 sugar cube
- 3 dashes of Peychaud’s bitters
- ¼ oz absinthe or anise liqueur
- lemon twist
Instructions: Muddle the sugar cube with bitters in a mixing glass, add the Sazerac rye whiskey, and stir well.
Get a chilled glass, rinse with absinthe, and then pour the whiskey mixture. Squeeze the lemon twist, then drop it inside the cocktail before serving.
Serving: 1
FAQs Related to Sazerac Rye Whiskey Price
What is the typical price range for Sazerac Rye whiskey?
The price of Sazerac Rye whiskey can vary depending on factors such as location, retailer, and bottle size. Generally, it ranges from $25 to $40 USD for a standard 750ml bottle.
Are there different versions or expressions of Sazerac Rye whiskey available?
Sazerac Rye whiskey is available in various expressions, including the flagship Sazerac Straight Rye, Sazerac 18-Year-Old, and Sazerac Rye Limited Edition releases, each offering unique flavor profiles and aging characteristics.
Does the price of Sazerac Rye whiskey vary between regions?
Yes, the price of Sazerac Rye whiskey may vary between regions due to factors such as distribution costs, taxes, and local market conditions.
Can I find Sazerac Rye whiskey on sale or discounted?
It is possible to find Sazerac Rye whiskey on sale or discounted during promotional periods, clearance sales, or through special offers from retailers. However, availability and timing may vary.
Is Sazerac Rye whiskey priced competitively compared to other rye whiskies?
Sazerac Rye whiskey is often competitively priced compared to other rye whiskies in its category, offering good value for its quality and flavor profile.
Final Verdict
Sazerac rye whiskey is a rare and valuable gem that deserves a spot on your liquor shelf. The mid-shelf whiskey has a rich history and unique flavor profile that mixes well with different cocktail recipes.
If you are into rye whiskies, the Sazerac rye whiskey price is reasonable for its quality. Try a bottle now!
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