Thomas Handy Sazerac Rye 2025 Release

Thomas H. Handy (1839–1893) was a New Orleans entrepreneur who transformed the Sazerac House from a local bar into a spirits empire. Starting as a clerk, he became the owner in 1869 and later secured U.S. distribution rights for Sazerac de Forge et Fils Cognac. When cognac supplies waned, Handy championed American rye whiskey as the base for the Sazerac cocktail helping define one of America’s first classic drinks.

His legacy endures through the Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey, crafted at Buffalo Trace Distillery in tribute to his pioneering spirit.