In the realm of distilled spirits, there's a revival underway, a rekindling of historical tastes and artisanal craftsmanship. Among these resurgent libations is Maryland rye whiskey, a venerable elixir tracing its lineage back to colonial America, where the verdant fields of the mid-Atlantic fostered the cultivation of rye over barley. This spirited legacy, predating even the storied ascent of bourbon, finds contemporary embodiment in brands like Sagamore Spirit, a Baltimore-based distillery that has been instrumental in revitalizing the appreciation for this quintessentially American spirit.
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Central to the resurgence of Maryland rye is Sagamore Spirit, a distillery with roots dating back to 2013 and a penchant for garnering accolades with its diverse portfolio of expressions. Yet, amidst their impressive array of offerings, one particular creation beckons aficionados with an irresistible allure: Sagamore Manhattan Finish Rye Whiskey.
This isn't just any whiskey; it's a symphony of flavors, an ode to the iconic Manhattan cocktail, reincarnated in liquid form. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the 2024 release of Sagamore Manhattan Finish Rye Whiskey emerges as a formidable spirit, boasting a formidable 103-proof potency. Beginning its journey as a 4-year-old straight rye whiskey, it undergoes a transformative metamorphosis through an extended sojourn in vermouth, bitters, and cherry brandy barrels, a process spanning a minimum of twenty months. The result? A tantalizing elixir, suffused with the essence of the Manhattan cocktail, replete with complexity, richness, and a symphony of flavors that dance upon the palate.
But what exactly does it taste like, you may ask? Picture savoring a Manhattan cocktail, but in the form of a whiskey. Notes of dried cherries, vanilla beans, honey, and subtle spices intertwine harmoniously, offering a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. The connoisseurs at Sagamore Spirit recommend indulging in the full Manhattan experience, crafting the iconic cocktail with Sagamore Manhattan Finish Rye Whiskey as its spirited foundation, accompanied by bitters, vermouth, and the brand's signature whiskey cherries.
Ryan Norwood, VP of Operations at Sagamore Spirit, elucidates the genesis of this exquisite creation, remarking on the initial inspiration behind the Manhattan Finish in 2020. He reflects on the endeavor to deconstruct the flavors of the Manhattan cocktail, culminating in a full-proof whiskey that evokes the essence of this timeless libation, leaving imbibers with a lingering kiss of its character. With the resurgence of Manhattan's popularity, the decision to reintroduce this limited-edition rye expression was inevitable, a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless allure.
As for the price of admission to this sensorial journey, Sagamore Manhattan Finish Rye Whiskey stands as the latest entrant in Sagamore Spirit's esteemed Reserve Series, a homage to the legacy of Maryland Rye whiskey. Priced at a suggested retail value of $79.99, this coveted elixir awaits discerning enthusiasts at the Baltimore-based distillery and select retailers nationwide. For those who harbor a penchant for classic cocktails and a reverence for heritage, securing a bottle of this limited-edition release is not merely a desire but a necessity, an opportunity to imbibe history in every sip and savor the legacy of Maryland rye whiskey in its most refined form.
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About Sagamore Spirit
Sagamore Spirit is a whiskey brand based in Baltimore, Maryland, known for its dedication to crafting high-quality rye whiskey and its commitment to honoring the heritage of Maryland distilling. Founded in 2013 by Kevin Plank, the entrepreneur behind the sportswear brand Under Armour, Sagamore Spirit aims to revive Maryland's rich whiskey-making tradition, which dates back to the 18th century.
One of the distinguishing features of Sagamore Spirit is its focus on rye whiskey, a style of whiskey that has deep roots in Maryland's history. Rye whiskey is made primarily from rye grain, giving it a distinctive spicy flavor profile that sets it apart from other types of whiskey. Sagamore Spirit sources its rye from local farms in Maryland, ensuring the authenticity and quality of its ingredients.
Sagamore Spirit produces a range of rye whiskey expressions, including its flagship Sagamore Spirit Straight Rye Whiskey. This award-winning whiskey is crafted from a blend of two different mash bills—one high in rye and one low in rye—to achieve a balanced and complex flavor profile. The whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels to develop its rich flavors and smooth finish, resulting in a spirit that has earned praise from critics and enthusiasts alike.
In addition to its core rye whiskey offerings, Sagamore Spirit also produces limited-edition releases and special bottlings, allowing whiskey enthusiasts to explore new and unique expressions. The brand is committed to innovation and experimentation, constantly seeking to push the boundaries of what's possible with rye whiskey while staying true to its Maryland roots.
Beyond its whiskey production, Sagamore Spirit is also known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The distillery uses eco-friendly practices in its production processes and partners with local organizations to support environmental conservation and community development initiatives.
Overall, Sagamore Spirit has quickly established itself as a respected player in the American whiskey industry, celebrated for its dedication to quality, authenticity, and innovation. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Sagamore Spirit rye whiskey offers a taste of Maryland's rich whiskey-making heritage and a memorable drinking experience for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
