Sagamore Spirit 'Sagamore Reserve' Moscatel Barrel Finished (2017 Limited Edition Release)

I might be in the minority here, but I genuinely enjoyed this bottle. I picked it up for $30 because a liquor store was closing down. I figured, why not, and grabbed it since at half the wholesale price, I couldn't lose. The Moscatel cask really gives it a distinctive character that you don't notice until after it's swallowed, and the lingering finish. I sampled this with two companions, and they had a similar reaction, agreeing that they were quite fond of it too. The aftertaste had a grape/wine essence, not like a typical cab or sherry finish, but more like pure grape, if that makes sense. So, for over $70 plus tax, I'm not sure I'd splurge, but if it were under $60-65, I think it would be a worthwhile purchase given its unique flavor that isn't found in other rye whiskeys. 4/17/22

Aroma - Sweet, fresh fruit notes akin to white fruits from moscato. Some baking spice/rye spice. Flavor - The sweet white fruit notes are prominent, with rye spice emerging subtly, creating a pleasant balance. Specific fruit notes are elusive but suggest apple, apricot, pear. Misc - A good coating mouthfeel and a medium finish. The proof seems ideal, and overall, it's a well-rounded finished rye. Bonus points for the moscato finish being original and not overwhelming. Scored 7.5 on the T8ke scale.

This one was a surprise. Sagamore has once again produced a remarkable variation of their rye whiskey. It might be sweeter than some rye enthusiasts would appreciate. The aroma is somewhat sweet, and it's very easy to drink neat. The rye bite appears late and subtly, but in a pleasant way. I'll keep a bottle in my regular rotation. Cheers! Nose: Honey, syrup, cinnamon Palate: Baking spices, grapes, berries Finish: Long, sweet, dry

Very sweet with loads of cherry and cinnamon, then it gets incredibly hot. This spirited drink will deceive you at first taste, then it will take you to a private place and give you a rough time when you swallow. You will not be sorry about the burn you receive by the end.

This is quite pleasant. The 50% ABV is detectable, yet it remains easy to drink without dilution. Nice finish of sherry and caramel.

Notes of apricot and some sweetness, but packs a significant punch.