Sagamore Spirit 8-Year-Old Rye is a delicious rye when experienced by itself. I say that because it didn’t do well against some of my favorites in a side-by-side, but when I drink it by itself, I really, really enjoy it. This is one reason I’m not a huge fan of blinds or side-by-side’s because the taste of one whiskey can influence another if experienced too close together, even if you cleanse your palate in between tastings—just my opinion.
The nose of Sagamore Spirit 8-Year-Old Rye starts with a pleasantly rich aroma that fades quickly and becomes a little too delicate. Still, you get an enjoyable mild rye spice and toasted char on the nose. Interestingly, if you let it sit in the glass for a while, it reveals a lovely floral bouquet.
An agreeable sweet black pepper or peppercorn and toasted caramel rye spice are on the palate of Sagamore Spirit 8-Year-Old Rye. Still, the viscosity is slightly thinner than expected for eight-year rye, particularly when I simultaneously compare it to other ryes.
The finish is warm at first, on the back of the throat, and tends to linger as it hits the esophagus.
I have updated this review since my initial pour because it is a rye that opens up a bit after sitting for a few weeks.