Sazerac Rye 18 Year (Fall 2025)

Deep copper hue. Nose: Very floral. Sweet mint, sweet oak, subtle cedar, and bubblegum. Palate: Orange oil upfront, like sweet bubblegum that shifts to mint. The tannins are quite noticeable, with some peanut brittle and caramel flavors. The oil coats the tongue. More citrus appears in the finish, which is quite long and appealing. Comparison with Handy 2025: Nose is less prominent, showing butterscotch and subtle mint. Palate: Sweet peanut and chicory, subtle vanilla, but a grainier character than the Sazerac. The finish is long and sweet with spearmint, caramel, and subtle tannins.

Quite enjoyable and flavorful, with an amazing nose and a satisfying finish. The conclusion is extended, revealing a spearmint flavor near the end that persists.