Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey is not a bourbon, but rather a rye whiskey. While both bourbon and rye whiskey are types of American whiskey, they have different mash bills and aging requirements.
One of the key differences between bourbon and rye whiskey lies in the mash bill. Bourbon must have a mash bill that consists of at least 51% corn, while rye whiskey must have a mash bill that consists of at least 51% rye grain. Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey, being a rye whiskey, has a mash bill that is predominantly rye.
Another important distinction is the aging process. To be considered bourbon, the spirit must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. Rye whiskey, on the other hand, can be aged in new or used barrels. Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey is aged in high-char American oak barrels, which imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the spirit.
The aging period for Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey ranges from 4 to 6 years. This aging process allows the whiskey to develop complexity and depth of flavor. During this time, the whiskey interacts with the wood of the barrels, absorbing the flavors and aromas, and mellowing out any harshness.
Sagamore Spirit takes pride in their attention to detail and the quality of their ingredients. They source their rye grain from local farmers in Maryland, where their distillery is located. This commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of their rye whiskey.
In terms of taste, Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey is known for its bold and spicy character, which is characteristic of rye whiskey. It often exhibits notes of pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, with a smooth and lingering finish. The high rye content in the mash bill gives the whiskey a robust and full-bodied flavor profile.
Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey is a rye whiskey, not a bourbon. Its mash bill is predominantly rye, and it is aged in high-char American oak barrels for 4 to 6 years. The result is a bold and spicy rye whiskey with a distinctive flavor profile.