In a triumphant return, Sagamore Spirit, the heralded Baltimore-based distillery, has reintroduced its crowning jewel, the Port Finish Rye Whiskey. This year's unveiling marks the third iteration of the celebrated rye whiskey that first earned the illustrious title of "World's Best Rye Whiskey" at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2019. Following the tremendous success of the inaugural release, the distillery offered a second iteration exclusively at their Baltimore headquarters in the preceding year.
The 2023 release stands as Sagamore Spirit's most mature Port Finish expression to date. Crafted through a meticulous process, the journey of this exceptional whiskey begins with their signature straight rye whiskey, aged for a robust six years in high-char new American oak barrels. To elevate the depth of flavors and enhance its complexity, the spirit then embarks on an additional three-year maturation within Port barrels sourced from the renowned Boordy Vineyards in Maryland.
The outcome is a symphony of flavors that transcends the ordinary, creating a full-bodied whiskey experience that tantalizes the palate. The dance of juicy raspberries, cherries, and plums intertwines harmoniously with the opulent notes of rich caramel, decadent dark chocolate, and the subtle embrace of oaky vanilla. The crescendo is a lingering, spiced finish that imparts a truly satisfying conclusion to this extraordinary tasting journey.
Ryan Norwood, the VP of Operations at Sagamore Spirit, expressed the distillery's eagerness to share this remarkable creation with enthusiasts nationwide. "We've been eager to bring back our Port Finish Rye Whiskey to our fans coast to coast, and everything finally lined up the right way," Norwood stated. He further highlighted the distinctive character of this edition, remarking on its extended rest in Port casks, resulting in pronounced notes of jammy fruit and indulgent baking spice. Indeed, the 2023 release stands as the epitome of a perfect seasonal rye whiskey.
This stellar Port Finish Rye Whiskey finds its place in Sagamore Spirit's revered Reserve Series, a testament to the distillery's unwavering dedication to excellence. True to the Maryland rye whiskey tradition, this latest offering exemplifies a delicate balance of versatility, boldness, and complexity, setting it apart as a true connoisseur's choice.
At a formidable 103-proof (51.5% ABV), this masterpiece is now available for enthusiasts across the nation, with a suggested retail price of $99.99. Discerning palates can secure their bottle at Sagamore Spirit's Baltimore-based distillery or select markets nationwide. For those eager to embark on this unparalleled tasting experience, further details and availability can be found at www.sagamorespirit.com. Don't miss the chance to savor the artistry and craftsmanship encapsulated in every drop of Sagamore Spirit's 2023 Port Finish Rye Whiskey, a beacon of excellence in the world of fine spirits.
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About Sagamore Spirit
Sagamore Spirit is a relatively young but rapidly growing American whiskey brand, based in Baltimore, Maryland. Founded in 2013, Sagamore Spirit takes pride in producing Maryland-style rye whiskey, paying homage to the region's historical significance in the American whiskey tradition. The brand draws its name from Sagamore Farm, a historic thoroughbred horse farm in Maryland that was once owned by Alfred G. Vanderbilt.
Sagamore Spirit is known for its commitment to quality and a hands-on approach to crafting its whiskey. The distillery employs a "Whiskey Advocacy Team" that is actively involved in the production process, from selecting grains to monitoring the aging barrels. The brand emphasizes transparency in its production methods, providing consumers with insight into the sourcing of ingredients and the distillation process.
A significant aspect of Sagamore Spirit's identity is its focus on rye whiskey. Rye has a long history in Maryland, and Sagamore seeks to revive and celebrate this heritage. The distillery uses a blend of corn and rye grains, creating a distinctive flavor profile characterized by a balance of sweetness and spice. The water used in production comes from a limestone aquifer, adding to the unique characteristics of Sagamore's whiskey.
Sagamore Spirit offers a variety of expressions, including their flagship product, the Sagamore Spirit Straight Rye Whiskey. They also produce limited-edition releases, allowing enthusiasts to explore different facets of their craft. The distillery has gained attention not only for the quality of its whiskey but also for its commitment to sustainable practices, such as repurposing spent grains as cattle feed.
Visitors to the Sagamore Spirit Distillery in Baltimore can experience guided tours that take them through the whiskey-making process, from the mashing of grains to the final aging stages. The distillery's waterfront location provides a picturesque backdrop for tastings and events, contributing to the overall experience of immersing oneself in the history and craftsmanship of Sagamore Spirit.