When Sazerac Full Proof first came out, everyone lost their minds… the hype has settled down a bit, but what has replaced it truly is nice to see- people are saying that Buffalo Trace actually put out a high quality, shelf stable (sorta) product, at an affordable price. It’s not every day you see that from a company like Buffalo Trace...

I’ve heard things ranging from “good” all the way to “better than this year’s Thomas Handy”… While I may not be fully onboard with the latter, I do intend to find out. This is the same ole Sazerac Rye we all know, but bumped up to 125 proof. Let’s have a pour.

Nose : exactly what you’d expect- all those same notes of citrus, spearmint, rye spice, etc., but turned up to 11. It’s definitely punchy on the nose, but I don’t get a youthful vibe. This is solid.

Palate : Speaking of punchy… so is the sip. I really dig it, though. This has all the same notes as its 90 proof alternative, but it delivers so much more. Citrus, light vanilla, tons of rye spice. Oak is probably here, but this is so citrus and spice forward that you really won’t notice much of it. Those traditional notes come in and mingle for a bit but notes of dill and candied citrus round everything out.

MSRP : ~$40

Score : 6.5. If I made more old fashioneds and/or mixed drinks, this would 100% be my go to. Holds up very well all on its own, too. If value was a part of my score, I’d very likely go higher on this one.

The t8ke Scoring Scale :

1 | Disgusting | So bad I poured it out

2 | Poor | I wouldn't consume by choice

3 | Bad | Multiple flaws

4 | Sub-par | Not bad, but many things l'd rather have

5 | Good | Good, just fine

6 | Very Good | A cut above

7 | Great | Well above average

8 | Excellent | Really quite exceptional

9 | Incredible | An all time favorite

10 | Perfect | Perfect