Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013 vs Rock Island 21 Year Old

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013Rock Island 21 Year Old
DistilleryThomas H. HandyRock Island
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeRyeBlended Malt
ABV66.2%46.8%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£125.86£99.62
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013

Smoke64/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner20/100
Value40/100

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner65/100
Value50/100

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Island 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island 21 Year Old is better value at £100 vs £126.

For beginners: Rock Island 21 Year Old is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (66.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£125.86 vs £99.62)

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£99.62 vs £125.86)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Thomas?

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013 is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Rock?

Rock Island 21 Year Old suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey - 2013

ToastedVegetativeNutty

Only Rock Island 21 Year Old

SherriedOld WoodDried FruitHoney

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