As with the regular Sagamore Spirit rye, the whiskey in the bottle comes from MGP while Sagamore Spirit lays down its own Maryland Rye for the future. However, this whiskey is bottled at 56.4% ABV instead of the regular edition’s 41.5%. The extra strength comes through in aromatic notes of honey, vanilla, clove, and dill on the nose. The taste is spicy, dry, and almost astringent with notes of clove, dill, allspice, and a hint of chili powder, while honey and caramel notes underneath add a nice balance. The finish is medium-length and dry with lingering spices and hints of vanilla and caramel. (March, 2017)