For whiskey lovers, finding a high-quality bottle at a price that doesn’t break the bank is like striking gold. Enter Costco, the warehouse giant known for its bulk buys and unbeatable deals. Among its vast selection of products, one item stands out as a must-have for anyone who enjoys a smooth, flavorful sip: Sazerac Rye straight whiskey. This award-winning spirit has earned praise for its exceptional taste and incredible value, especially when purchased at Costco. Here’s why Sazerac Rye at Costco is the deal every whiskey enthusiast needs to know about in 2025.
A Whiskey with a Winning Reputation
Sazerac Rye, produced at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, is no ordinary whiskey. It’s a full-bodied, straight rye whiskey that has racked up an impressive list of awards. In 2024 alone, it claimed Gold at the Whiskies of the World, Gold at the International Spirits Challenge, and Gold at the ASCOT Awards. These accolades aren’t just shiny medals—they’re proof of the whiskey’s outstanding quality, as judged by experts in the spirits world.
What makes Sazerac Rye so special? It’s all about the flavor. This whiskey delivers a smooth, sweet profile with a complex mix of candied notes, warm spices, and a bright citrus kick. Seasoned whiskey drinkers will also notice subtle hints of clove, sweet vanilla, anise, and a touch of pepper that linger on the palate. The result is a warm, satisfying sip that feels luxurious without the premium price tag. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Sazerac Rye consistently impresses.
Unbeatable Value at Costco
While Sazerac Rye’s taste and awards make it a standout, its price at Costco is what seals the deal. According to whiskey expert Wendy Hector, who has years of experience tasting and evaluating spirits, Sazerac Rye is the best value whiskey available at Costco. In her analysis, she compared the price of Sazerac Rye at Costco to other retailers and found that Costco’s pricing is hard to beat.
At the time of her review, Costco offered Sazerac Rye for just $22.99 per bottle. By comparison, other retailers typically sold the same bottle for $29.99 to $30.99—a significant markup. This price difference means Costco shoppers can enjoy a premium, award-winning whiskey for nearly 25% less than they’d pay elsewhere. For anyone looking to stock their home bar or grab a bottle for a special occasion, this savings is a game-changer.
But the value doesn’t stop at the price. Costco’s Sazerac Rye is the same high-quality spirit you’d find at other stores, crafted with care at Buffalo Trace Distillery. The only difference is the cost, making Costco the go-to destination for savvy whiskey buyers.
The History Behind Sazerac Rye
Sazerac Rye isn’t just a great whiskey—it’s a piece of American history. The whiskey was originally created to serve as the key ingredient in the Sazerac cocktail, a classic drink that traces its roots to New Orleans. In the early 19th century, the Sazerac cocktail was made with cognac, but a devastating pest known as phylloxera ravaged grapevines in the 1870s, disrupting cognac production. To keep the cocktail alive, bartenders turned to rye whiskey, and Sazerac Rye was born.
This historical shift gave rise to the modern Sazerac Rye, a spirit that pays homage to its cocktail origins while standing on its own as a versatile whiskey. Today, it’s a favorite among bartenders and home mixologists for crafting the perfect Sazerac cocktail, which combines rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters for a bold, flavorful drink. But even if cocktails aren’t your thing, Sazerac Rye’s rich flavor makes it a fantastic choice for sipping straight.
Why You Should Buy It Now
If you’re planning a trip to Costco, Sazerac Rye should be at the top of your shopping list—but don’t wait too long. Whiskey enthusiasts know that great deals like this can disappear quickly. According to industry insights, Sazerac Rye can sometimes sell out at Costco, especially during peak shopping seasons. When demand is high, prices at other retailers may spike, making Costco’s $22.99 price tag an even better steal.
Another reason to act fast? Costco occasionally marks certain products with an asterisk on the price tag. This small symbol is a big red flag for shoppers, as it indicates that the item is either being discontinued or won’t be restocked once it’s gone. If you spot Sazerac Rye with an asterisk, grab as many bottles as you can carry—you may not see it at this price again.
No Membership? No Problem (In Some States)
One of the best perks of buying alcohol at Costco is that you don’t always need a membership to take advantage of the deals. In 14 states—Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas, and Vermont—Costco is allowed to sell alcohol to non-members. This means anyone can walk into a Costco in these states and pick up a bottle of Sazerac Rye for the unbeatable price of $22.99, no membership required.
This policy makes Costco’s whiskey selection accessible to a wider audience, whether you’re a loyal member or just passing through. If you live in one of these states, there’s no excuse not to check out this incredible deal.
Tips for Enjoying Sazerac Rye
Sazerac Rye’s versatility is one of its biggest strengths. For those new to rye whiskey, sipping it neat or with a single ice cube is a great way to appreciate its complex flavors. The candied sweetness, citrus notes, and warm spices shine through with every sip, making it a perfect after-dinner drink.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using Sazerac Rye to make the classic Sazerac cocktail. Here’s a quick recipe to get you started:
- Ingredients: 2 oz Sazerac Rye, 1 sugar cube, 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters, a splash of absinthe, lemon peel for garnish
- Instructions: Rinse a chilled glass with absinthe and discard the excess. In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with bitters, add the rye whiskey, and stir with ice. Strain into the absinthe-rinsed glass and garnish with a lemon peel.
This cocktail is a nod to Sazerac Rye’s origins and a delicious way to enjoy its bold flavors. For a simpler option, mix Sazerac Rye with ginger ale or use it in a Manhattan for a twist on another classic.
Why Costco Is the Place to Buy Whiskey
Costco’s reputation for offering high-quality products at low prices extends to its alcohol selection. The warehouse chain carefully curates its whiskey offerings, stocking brands like Sazerac Rye that combine exceptional quality with unbeatable value. Unlike smaller liquor stores, Costco’s bulk-buying power allows it to negotiate lower prices, which are then passed on to customers.
In addition to Sazerac Rye, Costco carries other top-notch whiskeys, including its own Kirkland Signature brand and rare bourbons like Blanton’s Single Barrel. But Sazerac Rye stands out as a consistent favorite, thanks to its award-winning pedigree and budget-friendly price. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey collector or just starting to explore the world of spirits, Costco is the place to shop.
Final Thoughts
Sazerac Rye straight whiskey is more than just a bottle on the shelf—it’s a award-winning spirit with a rich history and a flavor profile that punches well above its price point. At Costco, where it’s priced at just $22.99, this whiskey is an absolute steal compared to the $29.99 or more you’d pay at other retailers. With its smooth, sweet taste, complex notes of spice and citrus, and versatility for sipping or mixing, Sazerac Rye is a must-have for any whiskey lover.
The next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye out for Sazerac Rye. Check the price tag for an asterisk, and if you see one, stock up before it’s gone. And if you live in one of the 14 states where Costco sells alcohol to non-members, you don’t even need a membership to take advantage of this deal. So grab a bottle (or two), pour yourself a glass, and discover why Sazerac Rye at Costco is the whiskey deal of 2025.
