After trying Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select, I can confidently say that it is a rye whiskey worth trying. The blend of MGP’s 95% rye and 51% rye mashes is likely around 73% rye, depending on the volume of each barrel. The whiskey is aged for six years in virgin American white oak, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select Overview

Sagamore Spirit is a Maryland-based distillery that has been producing rye whiskey since 2016. The Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select is a unique blend of 7-year-old straight rye whiskies. Each barrel of high-rye is expertly blended with a low-rye mash bill by the distilling team. This program offers a one-of-a-kind experience for consumers, as each expression tastes different from the other.

Product History

The Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select is aged for 6 years in virgin American white oak barrels. The blend is composed of two MGP products: a high-rye (95% rye, 5% malted barley) and a low-rye (51% rye, but an unspecified mash bill, probably corn). The distillery team also cask-finishes a number of casks in everything from Cognac to Calvados, so they aren’t just resting on MGP’s laurels.

Price Range

The Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select is available for $40 (750mL) on the distillery’s website. The price is reasonable for a 6-year-old blend of straight rye whiskies. It is a great value for the money, considering the unique experience it offers.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma

As I poured the Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select into my glass, I was immediately greeted with a sweet aroma of honey and fruit. The scent of cinnamon was also present, providing a warm and inviting feeling.

Flavor

Upon taking my first sip, I was met with a burst of flavor. The high-rye mash bill provided a spicy kick, which was balanced out by the sweetness of the caramel and maple notes. The flavor was complex and enjoyable, with each sip revealing new layers.

Finish

The finish was long and smooth, with a pleasant warmth that lingered on my tongue. The flavors of cinnamon and vanilla continued to dance on my palate, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.

Rating

Overall, I would rate the Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select very highly. The expert blending of high-rye and low-rye mash bills creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to please any whiskey lover. The sweet aroma, complex flavor, and smooth finish make this a whiskey that I would highly recommend.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

I find that Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but if you prefer to mix your whiskey, there are a few mixers that complement its flavors nicely. Ginger ale is a classic mixer for rye whiskey, and it pairs well with the spicy notes in Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select. For a more complex flavor profile, try mixing it with a splash of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters to make a Manhattan.

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Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re looking for some cocktail inspiration, try making a Sagamore Sour. Combine 2 oz of Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select, 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist. Another great cocktail to try is the Old Fashioned. Muddle a sugar cube, a dash of bitters, and a splash of water in a rocks glass. Add ice and 2 oz of Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select. Stir well, and garnish with an orange twist.

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Food Pairings

Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select pairs well with hearty, savory dishes. Try pairing it with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, aged cheeses, and pickled vegetables. It also goes well with grilled meats, such as steak or lamb chops. For a vegetarian option, try pairing it with roasted root vegetables or a mushroom risotto. The whiskey’s spicy notes will complement the earthy flavors of the vegetables.

Conclusion

After conducting a thorough review of Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select, I must say I was impressed with the whiskey. It is a rye-driven whiskey with a spicy kick that is well-balanced and not overpowering. The alcohol content adds to the overall intensity, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bold and flavorful whiskey. Whether you are a seasoned whiskey drinker or a newcomer to the world of rye whiskey, Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select is definitely worth trying.

Related Posts

If you enjoyed my review of the Sagamore Spirit Barrel Select, then you might be interested in reading about some of my other favorite whiskies. Here are a few related posts for you to check out:

• Dream Dram: a closer look at AnCnoc 35 Year Old: This limited edition bottling from AnCnoc is a real treat. It’s a 35-year-old whisky that’s been aged in a combination of American oak ex-bourbon barrels and Spanish oak ex-sherry butts. The result is a complex and flavorful dram that’s sure to impress.
• A closer look at Dalvve from Swedish Box Distillery: If you’re a fan of rye whiskey, then you might want to check out this release from Swedish Box Distillery. It’s a single malt whisky that’s been aged in American oak ex-bourbon barrels and finished in rye casks. The result is a spicy and flavorful dram that’s perfect for sipping.
• Reviewing Mackmyra rum-finished expression Vinterdröm: This Swedish whisky from Mackmyra is finished in casks that previously held rum. The result is a sweet and fruity dram that’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter’s night.
• Reviewing Highland Park Fire Edition: This special edition bottling from Highland Park is inspired by Norse mythology. It’s a smoky and peaty whisky that’s perfect for fans of Islay whiskies.
• Weekly Review: Claxton’s Glenrothes 19 Year Old (1997): This single cask bottling from Claxton’s is a real treat. It’s a 19-year-old whisky that’s been aged in a single sherry butt. The result is a rich and flavorful dram that’s perfect for sipping after dinner.