Overview: When the name WhistlePig comes up, the first thought is often their well-regarded range of aged rye whiskeys. Now, they've ventured into the bourbon world with the PiggyBack 6 Year, a 100-proof offering. This intriguing bourbon is a blend of distillates from Indiana (likely MGP), Kentucky and WhistlePig's own Vermont operation. While sourcing bourbon from MGP is a common practice for many new brands, WhistlePig's entry is still noteworthy, considering their established reputation in the rye whiskey category.
Age: 6 years
Proof: 100 proof (50% ABV)
Mashbill: Undisclosed. Website says "high corn"
Nose: While not groundbreaking, the nose offers a pleasant welcome with notes of toffee, a subtle hint of butterscotch, and classic oak and vanilla. A touch of nuttiness (reminiscent of Knob Creek?) also emerges.
Palate: The palate takes a surprising turn from the nose, leading with a burst of spice – think pepper and cinnamon – balanced by a wave of sweetness. Cherries, crème brûlée, toasted marshmallows, and apples mingle with a dash of vanilla. The oak presence is noticeable but surprisingly restrained for a 6-year-old bourbon..
Finish: The finish is medium to long, showcasing a pleasing balance. While not overly complex, it revisits the highlights from the palate – crème brûlée, cherries, and a lingering spice.
Final Thoughts: This is a good, but not exceptional, bourbon. It's smooth and approachable with a sweetness that's balanced by the 100-proof heat. If you're already a fan of WhistlePig's rye whiskeys, it's worth exploring. Personally, I found it shone more in cocktails than neat.
While I enjoyed the experience, I'm not rushing to replenish my stock. The bourbon market is overflowing with excellent options at this price point, making it difficult to justify a dedicated spot on my shelf. However, this being WhistlePig's first foray into bourbon, I'm eager to see how their offerings evolve and will certainly keep an eye out for future releases.
Rating: Bottom Shelf - Link to rating explanations
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