When it comes to finished whiskeys, sherry cask aging has become one of the most popular techniques on the market. While it often adds rich layers of dark fruit, raisins, and sweetness, many sherry finished bourbons risk losing balance, the cask influence can overshadow the spirit itself. That’s why Sagamore Spirit Sherry Finished Rye stands out. Instead of being dominated by sherry, this whiskey lets the vibrant rye spice shine through, with the sherry finish adding depth rather than taking over.

About Sagamore Spirit Sherry Finished Rye

This expression is part of the Sagamore Spirit Reserve Series, which showcases experimental finishes and specialty releases from the Baltimore distillery. The whiskey starts with a 4 year old straight rye and spends an additional 18 months in 132 gallon Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry barrels. This rye whiskey offers both strength and complexity, without sacrificing drinkability.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Honey, cherry, dried fruit, and baking spice.
Unlike some sherry finished bourbons that come across as syrupy, the aroma here is layered and restrained.

Palate

Spicy rye  leads the way with clove, cinnamon, and caraway, followed by  cherry and raisin from the sherry influence. There’s also a touch of oak, vanilla, and honey, the sherry finish adds richness and fruitiness without overpowering the Rye spice. Instead, it complements it. Showing how well a sherry finish can work with rye whiskey when handled with balance.

Finish

The finish is warm and lingering with dark fruit, oak, and classic rye spice. Notes of cherry and dried plum leave a satisfying aftertaste that makes you reach for another sip.

Final Thoughts

Sagamore Spirit has built a reputation for producing standout rye whiskeys, and this sherry finish release proves just how versatile their spirit can be. By allowing the rye spice to shine alongside rich sherry sweetness, they’ve created a whiskey that feels both unique and well-balanced.

If you’re a fan of finished rye whiskey, love a good balance of fruit and spice, or have been curious about sherry finishes but don’t want to lose that classic rye punch, Sagamore Spirit Sherry Finished Rye deserves a spot in your collection.

You can purchase it HERE in our Bottle Shop