Sagamore Spirit Sherry Finish Rye landed on my desk at 106 proof, carrying a $94.99 price tag. Here is what I found.
Nose
In the early misty lighting, a blushing tawny liquid swirls around in my Glencairn glass. Like awakening in the mornings, the legs are slow to emerge. It charms me to take the next step, a smell and a taste. I happily oblige. Upon initial aroma entrance, its a fresh pack of Fig Newtons being ripped open. Other dark fruits like black cherry and raisins join in on the celebration. Chocolate covered walnuts reveal itself as I sit longer with it. Remarkable that a high proof whiskey would have a buttery and soft sensation on the nose, but then again, having spent 18 months in PX sherry barrels sure soothes it. . But of course, with time and with each sip, a velvety mouthfeel enters your senses and then slowly dries out the The high proof shows itself as the initial sip is abrupt and spicy, especially after having such a gentle a soft connection on the nose. But of course, with time and with each sip, a velvety mouthfeel enters your senses and then slowly dries out the palate. Then I pick up on a cinnamon greeting with a fruity farewell. Similar to a hot toddy, there is heat from the spices, with also a touch of ginger and an orange peel that balances and rounds out the tasting adventure. To my surprise, the citrus conclusion to end the journey is not a lengthy one, but it does leave you yearning for another sip.
Finish
I have yet to find a sherry finish whiskey I didn’t appreciate, but Sagamore’s sherry finish bursts through as a memorable one.
The Bottom Line
Sagamore Spirit Sherry Finish Rye delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $94.99 represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
