Sagamore Spirit Unveils Its Premier High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey

On October 2, 2025, Sagamore Spirit, Maryland's renowned rye distillery, proudly announced the launch of its first-ever High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This limited release is part of the prestigious Reserve Series, marking a significant milestone for the distillery as it forges a link between the rich bourbon traditions of Kentucky and Maryland's celebrated rye whiskey heritage.

The High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey is crafted with a unique mash bill consisting of 60% corn, 25% rye, and 15% malted rye. Aged for six years in newly charred American white oak barrels, this whiskey boasts an impressive bottling strength of 59% ABV, making it stand out in the marketplace. Enthusiasts will find a rich experience from the moment they pop the cork. The aroma captivates with notes of cornbread, fresh apricots, and walnut shells intertwined with spicy ginger vanilla and warm tobacco.

On the palate, consumers can expect a harmonious blend of flavors ranging from caramel and turbinado sugar to vibrant orchard fruits underscored by ground cinnamon. The finish is generously complex—lingering hints of bitter espresso married perfectly with a subtle rye spice, creating a memorable tasting experience.

Master Distiller, Ryan Norwood, expressed excitement about unveiling this new whiskey to fans worldwide. “This High Rye Straight Bourbon is something we’ve been eager to share,” he stated. “It’s a whiskey crafted for those who appreciate both bourbon and rye flavors, ensuring a unique pour that stands out.”

The Sagamore Spirit Reserve Series has earned respect by honoring the age-old traditions of Maryland distilling while prioritizing quality at every stage of production. Some whiskeys from this series are further enhanced through barrel finishing processes that add distinct flavor profiles, while others feature older age statements, appealing to discerning palettes.

Sagamore Spirit’s commitment to excellence is deeply ingrained in its approach to making rye whiskey. Recognizing Maryland's legacy as a center for quality rye production, the distillery does not just chase accolades; it focuses on creating that perfect whiskey loved by consumers worldwide. Sagamore Spirit believes in modernizing the whiskey experience by focusing on a grain-to-glass approach using Non-GMO grains and partnering with local farmers to foster sustainable practices in whiskey production.

The limited release of Sagamore Spirit High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey will be available starting this October across Maryland. It features a suggested retail price of $49, offered both at the Sagamore Spirit distillery in Baltimore and select premium retailers throughout the area. For more details, fans can visit SagamoreSpirit.com.

The distillery, located along the Baltimore Peninsula, stands as a testament to Maryland's rich history in whiskey-making. With around 40,000 visitors each year, Sagamore Spirit is not only embracing its past but also setting its sights on the future of American whiskey—redefining what it means to produce high-quality rye whiskey.

Boasting over 200 international awards, including the title of “Best Rye Whiskey” at the 2023 John Barleycorn Awards, Sagamore Spirit’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in both its small batch and limited edition releases. Including their other expressions such as Sagamore Small Batch Rye Whiskey, Cask Strength Rye Whiskey, and Double Oak Rye Whiskey, the distillery is leading a renaissance of Maryland Rye worldwide. Through their grain sourcing initiatives and engagements with local agricultural communities, Sagamore Spirit continues to bring unique flavor profiles to the whiskey scene.

As whiskey aficionados eagerly await this latest release, it’s clear that Sagamore Spirit is poised to expand its already impressive repertoire, solidifying its place in the hearts of whiskey lovers everywhere.