Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye 63.6% 126.2 Proof 2017

Appearance: Bright copper

Nose: The nose is a bit milder than I expected, to be honest. Stoneground mustard, cherry preserves, and a faint note of fruit popsicles mingle with some vegetal notes like cooked corn and steamed greens.

Palate: Rich and full, honeyed but also savory – think rye crisps topped with dark honey and black pepper, although the spice is felt more in the nose than on the tongue. Extremely well-integrated, the flavor really builds in a cohesive, continuous wave from entry to finish.

Speaking of the finish, it’s fruity and herbaceous, with a strong note of mentholated cherry cough drops giving it an almost cooling quality. Water does this no favors, but it’s balanced enough to enjoy without.