WhistlePig 6 Year PiggyBack Bourbon

Even though Whistlepig products are typically hard to get, I keep spotting this new bourbon in the least likely Ohio liquor stores, yet the Piggyback rye is nowhere to be found. I think a bourbon from Whistlepig is a fantastic concept, particularly to fill a market gap while maintaining their rye identity. That being said, I'm really hoping this is one of their rare bottles that isn't sourced, so we can finally witness the distillery's true potential beyond just bottling others' creations. Nevertheless, a six-year-old bourbon at 100 proof is a pretty solid combination and might hold its own against other craft distilleries, provided the "extremely high" corn mash bill doesn't make it overly sweet. The #3 charred barrels seem like a smart choice to balance some sweetness while still imparting classic bourbon characteristics. Lastly, the prominent, awkwardly placed "100%" in gold on the back label lacks any real meaning but is insignificant if the contents are compelling enough. The color appears rather light initially, but it's not entirely unexpected given the char level and aging period. The aroma is distinctly sweet and candy-like, reminiscent of homemade chocolate or caramel bourbon confections found at artisanal distilleries or during tours. Hints of raw corn are also present but less aggressive than in younger bourbons. The ethanol is potent but doesn't assault the nose and is quite well-integrated. This same ethanol makes it challenging to discern any rye notes, and without an official mash bill, I can only hope the taste reveals more. The texture is notably thin at first, seeming less robust than most 80-proof spirits, but it develops a spicier profile after a few more sips. The sweetness detected on the nose persists but is less dominant here due to the lighter body; chocolate is the most noticeable flavor, followed by vanilla and some caramel. The rye isn't perceived on the palate but rather surfaces deep within the gums long after the finish. Speaking of the finish, it's characterized by moderately dry oak and an unexpected maltiness, lending the final taste an impression similar to a single-malt or blended whiskey that has undergone extensive finishing in various bourbon casks to intensify its flavor. Considering everything, the price point is slightly higher than I'd anticipate for a standard, entry-level craft distillery spirit, yet it offers a significantly diminished experience, even if it were priced appropriately. The Piggyback range was already established by this brand as their go-to for mixing, but while the rye whiskey excels in this role and beyond, the bourbon is too subdued to be enjoyable neat and would likely get lost in most mixed drinks. I might use it in cocktails where a sweet whiskey note is desired, but never as the primary component; drinks like a bourbon smash or hot toddy would be suitable, but I wouldn't choose this for an old fashioned or mint julep. Even so, if I were seeking a bourbon with such a broad flavor profile, I would opt for one of at least a dozen other competitors that would provide similar taste for much less money.

Annoyingly, I began writing a detailed note on this selection when my computer abruptly restarted. Frustrating. Regardless... A distillery I never anticipated appreciating was Whistlepig. As mentioned before, I'm generally not a fan of Rye. However, I've recently developed a fondness for crafting Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, and only the robust spice of a quality Rye truly works for those. So, here we are. And as always, I must sample everything neat at least once... The aroma is overwhelmingly sweet for this bourbon. A surprise, as I expected tannins and spice, typical of Rye-forward spirits. Not the case here (though I'm not entirely certain of the mash bill). The aroma does carry a very slight hint of ethanol from its proof, but it's not unpleasant. The dominant scent is a rich, creamy blend of vanilla, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Deeper sniffs reveal baking spices and a faint touch of tannic oak alongside stewed cherries. Yet, that intensely sweet aroma truly dominates. The initial taste is sweet, rich, and creamy, almost excessively so. Vanilla, maple syrup, and brown sugar combine with a surprisingly thick texture. As the flavor develops, spicy cinnamon and peppercorn create a tingling sensation on the tongue, followed by tannic oak that balances the initial sweetness. The finish offers a wonderful harmony of sweet, spicy, and tannic notes. The rich mouthfeel persists, leaving a long-lasting, oily sensation. Peppercorn continues to tingle the palate as the oak fully emerges. A subtle, underlying vanilla sweetness rounds out the entire finish, beautifully concluding the tasting experience. I'm... pleasantly surprised. For a reasonably priced bottle from a distillery I expected to dislike, I'm genuinely impressed with their 6-year bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, it's a superb addition to any home bar.

A Total Wine store selection from Gilbert, AZ. 111.3 proof. The aroma is absolutely outstanding, with toasted oak, roasted almond, vanilla frosting, rich caramel, ripe plum, nutmeg, earthy mushroom, and a musty barn/cellar scent. Honestly, this aroma resembles that of a limited edition costing over $200. There is absolutely no ethanol noticeable. The palate features star anise, caraway seed, cake batter, cinnamon, barrel char, raisin, date, and fig. The flavors are bold yet harmoniously integrated. The profile is reminiscent of some of the superior Willet products I've experienced; I'm not kidding. The finish transitions into caramel flan, sweet delicate oak, pepper, black licorice, nut butter, and a subtle cooling menthol. There's a lingering cinnamon warmth. The mouthfeel is slick and medium-bodied, but not particularly remarkable. I purchased this on impulse, not expecting to discover something truly top-tier, but here we are. If this is indicative of what Whistle Pig can achieve with a 6-year-old bourbon, watch out. Did I stumble upon a rare gem of a store pick? Possibly. But it's an absolute showstopper. At $64.99, it's an unbelievable deal.

(My initial review was mistakenly posted on the Piggyback Rye page. Here is the correct review for this bottle!) I'm enjoying this tonight at my in-laws' residence. They are aware of my fondness for bourbon and always procure a bottle or two when I visit. I was thrilled they chose this for me, as I had been eager to sample it for some time... Nose: Exhibits a classic bourbon aroma of leather, complemented by butterscotch and a faint hint of alcohol. Palate: Sweet, with caramel, more butterscotch carried over from the nose, caramel, a creamy texture, and a characteristic bourbon tingle, with a touch of spice. Finish: Medium in length with a mild warmth/embrace.

An elegant Bourbon Whiskey from WhistlePig Distillery in Shoreham, Vermont / Canada, made with a high corn mash bill, a bit of rye and barley, aged for 6 years in Char #3 American white oak barrels, and bottled at 100 proof. It starts with an aromatic profile of grains, wood, fruits, nuts, herbs & spices; a balanced middle adds notes of caramel popcorn, honey, vanilla & sultanas; leading to a delicate, medium-length finish with notes of oak, pepper, leather, toasted walnut, maple, burnt sugar & smoke. December 2024 / February 2026

It displays a beautiful, darker gold hue. Sweet honey is immediately apparent on the aroma. The initial sip is dominated by oak and smoke. Later, after a few tastes, a hint of caramel emerges. Adding a drop of water revealed a leather aroma. The taste then presented apple and some dried fruit, with apple being more pronounced. Very good. This will definitely be a top-shelf selection.