Buffalo Trace rolls out higher-proof Sazerac Rye

Buffalo Trace Distillery has unveiled Sazerac Rye Whiskey 100 Proof, a bold addition to its acclaimed Sazerac Rye portfolio. Crafted in response to growing demand from bartenders and whiskey aficionados, the higher-proof expression is designed to deliver enhanced flavour, balance, and control for cocktail creation without sacrificing the signature smoothness of Sazerac Rye.

The 100-proof variant has undergone extensive development to ensure its richer, more structured profile complements rather than overwhelms its signature notes of clove, vanilla, anise, and pepper, with added layers of candied spices, citrus, and a smooth licorice finish. Ideal for classic cocktails like the Sazerac and Manhattan, it empowers creativity behind the bar while meeting the rising preference for stronger, more versatile rye whiskies.

“As the whiskey of America’s first cocktail, Sazerac Rye has been central to rye whiskey’s resurgence,” said Global Brand Director Andrew Duncan. “This 100-proof expression offers bartenders more control and flavour clarity, it’s built to be the perfect cocktail whiskey.”

Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley noted, “We crafted this spirit with bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts in mind, ensuring complexity and balance at a higher proof.”

Sazerac Rye 100 Proof is available in select markets across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $29.99 for a 1 litre bottle. It also joins the Sazerac Barrel Select (SBS) programme, offering select accounts the opportunity to hand-pick their own barrel. The first 100 on-premise accounts will receive a limited-edition commemorative barrelhead to mark their selection.