Undisclosed
Backbone
55%
5 Years, 8 Months
Released in May 2024, this bourbon is described by the brand as being "crafted to represent not only where we have been as a company but also where we are going." This is the first in a series of what Backbone is calling "micro batches." The initial micro batch produced 73 cases. It's a blend of "mostly cognac-finished and otherwise double-barreled bourbon," according to Backbone. The whiskeys used in the blend are sourced from an undisclosed producer in Indiana (presumably MGP) and are made with three mashbills: 1) 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley; 2) 51% corn, 45% wheat and 4% malted barley; and 3) 60% corn, 36% rye and 4% malted barley.
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Heavy toffee, cocoa, nougat, caramel and brûlée on the nose with pleasant oak, tobacco and cake batter. Lovely pepper to balance the sweetness. Moderate oak.
Rich and sweet on the palate. A light zip of ethanol pairs nicely with heavier oak, big toffee, cola, tobacco, waffle cone, black pepper and creme brûlée.
Impressive finish. Gobs of caramel and honey, toffee, brown butter, sweet tobacco and lovely spice.
Backbone Estate is a novel blend, allowing the brand to release well-aged bourbons, blended well, at a super competitive price point. Does Backbone pull it off? I think so. While I’ve had a number of Backbone products in recent years that weren't single barrels, I think this Estate line competently puts a new foot forward with killer depth and quality and a more approachable, everyday price.
88
Disclosure: The producer provided this sample to review free of charge, and without expectation of review or rating.
