WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World vs Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
WhistlePig
★ 5.00
£124

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Thomas H. Handy
★ 5.00
£129
| WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World | Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | WhistlePig | Thomas H. Handy |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | America | America |
| Type | Rye | Rye |
| ABV | 43% | 63.1% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £124 | £128.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Quick verdict
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is better value at £124 vs £129.
For beginners: WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£124 vs £128.95)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (63.1%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£128.95 vs £124)
Who should buy WhistlePig?
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Who should buy Thomas?
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release) 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.
Tasting notes
Only WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
Only Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)