Sagamore Spirit Ale Cask Finish

While I'm not a whisky expert, I generally know what's good, so a friend often sends me photos of store shelves asking for recommendations. Our palates differ, but he trusts my judgment. In early July, he sent a picture of the clearance section with that question. I told him there were several good bottles and that I'd personally choose the Sagamore Spirits Ale Cask Finished Rye for $50. I even offered to buy it for him if he didn't, and he could Venmo me for the bottle and shipping. I can't recall what he bought, but he did send me the Sagamore. I'm a big fan of Sagamore; they've never disappointed me. I've had their Tequila Finished Rye, Cask Strength, and Cognac Finished. I also own bottles of the 8-year, Double Oak, and Rum-Finished. This Ale Cask Finish, positioned between those first three and the latter three, is also wonderful. Sagamore Rye is nicely spicy, with clove and cinnamon on the palate, plus a hint of Earl Grey tea. In other words, it's a spicy rye rather than a sweet one. The ale cask finishing adds yeast and hops to both the aroma and taste, which is great if you enjoy ale or hoppy beers. The finish remains spicy with lingering hops, creating a truly unique experience. I'm not sure I've encountered anything quite like it, similar to the Sagamore Tequila and Cognac finishes. The Cask Strength was more straightforward but also excellent. My advice: if you appreciate rye, don't overlook Sagamore. They are currently the top rye distillery.