Sazerac Rye, known affectionately by enthusiasts as "Baby Saz," is the namesake whiskey of the Sazerac Company and a foundational bottle in any rye lover's collection. Produced at the storied Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, it traces its lineage to the original Sazerac House in New Orleans and to the legendary Sazerac cocktail, often called America's first cocktail, which it was practically made to mix. This is the core straight rye expression, not to be confused with the ultra rare eighteen year old Sazerac Rye from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, though the two share the same name, the same 90 proof, and the same celebrated low rye recipe. While Buffalo Trace keeps its mashbills closely guarded, this rye is widely believed to use their low rye recipe of roughly 51 percent rye, 39 percent corn, and 10 percent malted barley, the same mashbill behind Thomas H. Handy and the Van Winkle rye. Though it carries no age statement, it was once marketed as a six year old and is generally understood to be aged between four and six years. Bottled at an approachable 90 proof, it is soft, balanced, and elegant, with classic rye spice held in beautiful check by sweetness and citrus. As a Buffalo Trace made rye, it has become increasingly sought after and can be difficult to find on shelves, yet it remains remarkably affordable for the quality in the glass. Whether you are building the perfect Sazerac or Manhattan, or simply want a smooth, dependable sipping rye with genuine heritage, Baby Saz is an essential pour that has stood the test of time.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky |
| Category |
Straight Rye Whiskey |
| Expression |
Sazerac Rye (Baby Saz), Core Release |
| Mashbill |
Believed Buffalo Trace low rye: ~51% Rye, 39% Corn, 10% Malted Barley |
| Age |
No Age Statement (generally 4 to 6 years) |
| ABV |
45% |
| Proof |
90 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States |
Tasting Notes
Color: Rose gold to light amber.
Nose: Clove, pepper, and juicy citrus, soft and inviting, with undertones of rye spice and anise.
Palate: Light bodied and balanced, with candied spice, citrus, dark fruit, caramel, and a touch of black pepper.
Finish: Medium length, with lingering rye spice and a hint of licorice.
FAQ
Why is it called Baby Saz? The nickname distinguishes this core release from the ultra aged eighteen year old Sazerac Rye in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. They share a name, proof, and mashbill, but this is the younger, more attainable sibling.
What is the mashbill? Buffalo Trace does not disclose it, but it is widely believed to be their low rye recipe of about 51 percent rye, 39 percent corn, and 10 percent malted barley.
How old is it? It carries no age statement. It was once marketed as six years old and is generally understood to be aged between four and six years.
What proof is it? It is bottled at 90 proof, or 45 percent ABV.
Is it good for cocktails? Absolutely. It is the natural choice for a Sazerac and also shines in a Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or Whiskey Sour.
Where can I buy Sazerac Rye online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
