Average Retail Price: $1,362.99+

Tasting Notes Profile

The Sazerac 18 Year pours a deep amber, hinting at its lengthy maturation. The viscous liquid leaves slow-trailing legs as it’s swirled, a testament to its rich body.

Nose: The initial aroma is a delightful dance of rye spice and sweetness. Black pepper and a hint of clove intertwine with notes of honey and vanilla bean. Hints of dried fruit, like apricot and orange peel, peek through, adding a touch of intrigue. The oak influence is subtle, offering a touch of vanilla and a whisper of leather. Overall, the nose is complex and inviting, with each note complementing the others in a harmonious blend.

Palate: The first sip delivers a luxurious mouthfeel, coating the tongue with a wave of toasted oak, rye spice, and hints of honey. As it develops on the palate, flavors of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg emerge, playing a delightful game of hide-and-seek with the initial rye heat. Here’s where things get interesting – some reviews praise the balance and complexity of the flavors, while others find it leans a little too heavily toward sweetness.

Finish: The finish is a point of contention as well. I enjoyed the medium-long length and evolution spice and honey. However, others find it a touch fleeting, missing the lingering warmth one might expect from an 18-year-aged rye.

Overall Impression

Sazerac 18 Year is an undeniably well-crafted rye whiskey. The nose is a captivating exploration of spice, sweetness, and subtle oak influence. The palate offers a delicious interplay of classic rye notes with hints of baking spices and honey. However, some reviewers find the sweetness a bit too dominant, and the finish, while pleasant, may not live up to the expectations set by its age.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Rye

Sazerac 18 Year is a rye whiskey for the discerning palate. It offers a complex and enjoyable drinking experience, but its premium price tag demands a certain level of satisfaction. If you appreciate a rye that leans towards the sweeter side and are willing to invest, then Sazerac 18 Year won’t disappoint. However, if you crave a more robust and lingering rye experience, you might be better served exploring other options.

Discover more from Sazerac

So, have you tried Sazerac 18 Year? Did your experience align more with the sweetness or the spice? Share your thoughts and tasting notes in the comments below.