Sagamore Straight Rye Cask Strength Review

Distillery: Sagamore Spirit—Baltimore, MD

Proof: 123.0 (61.5% ABV)

Age: Seven Years

Mashbill: Blend of two: one high rye and one low rye

MSRP: $70

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Full Strength—Full of Finesse

Sagamore Spirit is no stranger to boldness. The Baltimore-based distillery staked its reputation and credibility on Maryland-style rye—known for its softer spice and fuller body, often favoring sweet and herbal notes over the sharp, pepper-forward profiles typical of Pennsylvania and Kentucky ryes. But as Al Capone once warned not to mistake kindness for weakness, don’t confuse Sagamore’s smoothness for softness. Their Cask Strength Straight Rye proves that high proof and finesse can co-exist in the glass.

This 2025 release checks in at 123 proof (61.5% ABV) and blends two of Sagamore’s house-distilled mashbills: one high-rye and one low-rye, both aged for seven years. Priced at $70, it lands squarely in the “premium but accessible” category.

Sagamore Straight Rye Cask Strength Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.4/5

The Nose bursts with sweet and spice—bubble gum and mandarin orange take the lead, grounded by a fresh grassy note. A follow-up of gingersnap and oak adds warmth and complexity. It’s expressive and high-proof, yet well-behaved—never tipping into harshness or excess.

Palate – 4.6/5

The first sip brings an adhesive mouthfeel—sticky, full, and completely coating. Wintergreen and molasses show up early, followed by dark chocolate with a high cocoa content that gives depth. While the profile leans sweet, it’s kept in check by herbal undertones. The heat is clear, but it’s disciplined—like a well-trained horse waiting for its chute to spring open.

Finish – 4.6/5

The Finish is long and warming, led by black pepper, cool mint, and a touch of lemon zest. It builds in heat and fades gradually. A subtle dryness at the end reins in the sweetness and nudges you toward the next sip. Bold, but never overwhelming.

Value – 4.2/5

At $70, Sagamore Spirit Cask Strength Rye delivers outstanding value for a seven-year-old, house-distilled, high-proof release. This isn’t sourced whiskey—it’s born from their own stills and aged with intention. While many cask-strength ryes now push into triple digits, Sagamore keeps its pricing realistic.

Sagamore Straight Rye Cask Strength Review: The Verdict

This batch of Sagamore Spirit Cask Strength Rye shows what’s possible when age, proof, and blending are handled with care. It’s a high-proof pour that leads with flavor, not fire. For those chasing a rye that’s powerful, polished, and thoughtfully built—this one belongs at the front of your lineup. Shop now.

Verdict – 4.5/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3