Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey

Born in New Orleans lore and crafted at Buffalo Trace in Kentucky, Sazerac Straight Rye is the definitive, cocktail-ready American rye. Bottled at 45% ABV, it layers bold spice, citrus brightness and honeyed depth—the same character that powered America’s first branded cocktail. Elegant neat, commanding in classics, and a smart, gift-worthy icon for any serious home bar.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Clove and vanilla rise first, entwined with anise and cracked pepper before warm sugars bloom—candied orange peel, toffee and a touch of honey. The palate is dry and bright, rye spice carrying orange oils, cocoa dust and toasted oak. It resolves long and assured, with hints of liquorice and citrus pith, finishing clean and mouth-watering, inviting another sip.

Key Details

• Producer: Sazerac Company (Buffalo Trace Distillery)
• Type: Straight Rye Whiskey
• Region: Kentucky, USA
• ABV: 45%
• Volume: 750ml
• Maturation: Charred new American oak; carefully selected barrels for a balanced spice-citrus profile
• Serve: Neat or with a splash of water; superb on a large rock; built for classics like the Sazerac, Vieux Carré and Manhattan

Cocktail Pairings

Designed for mixing yet refined for sipping, this rye shines in a true Sazerac (absinthe rinse, Peychaud’s bitters), brings structure to a Vieux Carré, and delivers a spicy, elegant Manhattan. For simplicity, try an orange-oiled Old Fashioned; for lift, a New York Sour with a red-wine float; or revive a citrus-led Ward Eight where rye spice keeps everything in tune.

Craftsmanship & Story

Named for the 19th-century Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans, this whiskey traces its roots to rye shipped down the Mississippi to the Crescent City. Today it’s distilled and matured at Buffalo Trace in Frankfort, Kentucky, then selected for a flavour profile that balances classic rye spice with polished sweetness—made to honor the cocktail culture that made it famous.

Special Features

A benchmark 45% ABV delivers presence without harshness, giving definition to bitters, vermouth and citrus while remaining composed on its own. The rye-forward mash and charred new oak yield clove, vanilla and pepper over bright orange and cocoa, striking the sweet-dry equilibrium bartenders prize—versatile, consistent and unmistakably American rye.

Recognition & Accolades

Decorated for quality and cocktail performance worldwide:

• Platinum – TAG Global Spirits Awards, 2022
• Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2015 & 2013
• Gold – International Spirits Challenge, 2022
• Category Winner – World Whiskies Awards (Best American Rye), 2022
• Gold – Denver International Spirits Competition, 2022
• Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2018 & 2016

A proven, crowd-pleasing rye that consistently excels in the glass and on the judging table.

Food Pairing

Rye’s spice and citrus sing with charred and salty-sweet flavours: think peppered ribeye or bourbon-glazed pork, smoked brisket, or cured meats. Aged cheddar, gouda and blue cheese amplify the toffee and oak. For dessert, reach for dark chocolate tart, pecan pie or brûléed citrus—each echoing the whiskey’s caramel, cocoa and orange zest.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

An essential of American cocktail history and a polished pour on its own—ideal for birthdays, client thank-yous and curated home bars, or as your go-to rye for elevated evenings in.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.