In the world of American whiskey, few things get folks talking like a bold new release from a distillery with deep roots. Sagamore Spirit, the standout rye maker out of Maryland, just dropped their 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey. This one's a big deal—it's the oldest straight rye they've ever put out, and it's landing in the hands of whiskey fans starting this September. You can grab it right at their Baltimore distillery or hunt it down at top-shelf stores across the U.S.
This whiskey didn't happen overnight. It's spent a full decade mellowing in fresh, charred American white oak barrels, the kind that give it that rich character. Bottled at a solid 55.4% ABV, it's got enough kick to stand out but smooth enough to savor. Crack it open, and you're hit with smells that take you back—think warm peach crumble fresh from the oven, a handful of roasted nuts, and the sweet chew of a molasses cookie. On the palate, it's a mix of creamy crème brûlée, hints of floral honey, and a peppery finish that sticks around with a touch of white pepper spice. It's that perfect balance of sweet and heat that makes you reach for another pour.
Image credit: Sagamore Spirit
Ryan Norwood, the VP of Operations over at Sagamore Spirit, summed it up best: "Putting out this 10-Year-Old Rye is a real turning point for us. It shows how serious we are about honoring Maryland's rye tradition while delivering the quality our supporters count on. If you're into rye, this is one you don't want to skip."
This new bottle fits right into Sagamore's Reserve Series, a lineup that's all about paying tribute to Maryland's long history in the distilling game. The series keeps things top-notch from start to finish, with some whiskeys getting extra time in special barrels for unique twists, and others, like this 10-year gem, standing out because of their extra age. It's not just about making booze—it's about crafting something special that nods to the past while pushing boundaries.
At its core, Sagamore Spirit is on a mission to make the best rye whiskey around. Maryland rye has always been known for its hearty, smoother style with a bit of sweetness, and Sagamore leans into that hard. They're inspired by the old-school distillers who made Baltimore a whiskey hub way before Kentucky stole the spotlight. But they're not stuck in the past. Today's global crowd of whiskey drinkers keeps them innovating, blending tradition with a fresh take on American spirits.
One thing that sets Sagamore apart is their hands-on approach from grain to glass. They stick to non-GMO grains, building strong ties with local farmers to get the best stuff. They've even teamed up with the University of Maryland's agricultural experts to boost rye growing in the state—buying seeds ahead of time and committing to the harvest. It's a smart way to support the community while ensuring every bottle starts with quality ingredients. Their process involves triple distilling and using two different mash bills, which helps create that full-bodied profile Maryland rye is famous for.
The heart of it all is their waterfront distillery in Baltimore's Peninsula area. It's a spot that draws about 40,000 visitors each year, folks coming to tour, taste, and soak in the vibe. Baltimore used to be a powerhouse in rye production back in the day, and Sagamore is bringing that legacy back to life. Walking through, you can feel the history mixed with modern energy—it's a place where craftsmanship meets real passion.
Sagamore's track record speaks for itself. They've racked up more than 200 awards from around the world, including snagging "Best Rye Whiskey" at the 2023 John Barleycorn Awards. That's no small feat in a crowded field. Beyond this new 10-year release, they've got a solid core lineup worth checking out. There's the Small Batch Rye Whiskey for everyday sipping, the Cask Strength version for those who like it straight and strong, and the Double Oak Rye that picks up extra layers from a second oak aging. Then there are the limited Reserve Series drops that keep things exciting with fresh expressions.
Priced at around $79.99 suggested retail, this 10-Year-Old Straight Rye is a limited run, so it's smart to act fast if you want one. Head to the Baltimore distillery for the full experience, or check with your local high-end liquor spots. For the guys who appreciate a good rye after a long day—maybe paired with a cigar or just neat in a heavy glass—this could be the bottle that elevates your collection. It's more than whiskey; it's a piece of American spirit-making at its finest, blending old ways with today's standards. If you're curious about the full story or want to explore their other offerings, swing by SagamoreSpirit.com. Who knows, it might just become your new go-to pour.
