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

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Thomas H. Handy
★ 5.00
£129

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
WhistlePig
★ 5.00
£124
| Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release) | WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Thomas H. Handy | WhistlePig |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | America | America |
| Type | Rye | Rye |
| ABV | 63.1% | 43% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £128.95 | £124 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
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).
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)
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
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.
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.
Tasting notes
Only Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey (2016 Release)
Only WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World