Backbone Bourbon Company Old Bones 15 Year Straight Rye Whiskey Review.

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Backbone Bourbon Company Old Bones 15 Year Straight Rye Whiskey Review. 

    I received this spirit as a review sample from Backbone Bourbon Company, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.


    Backbone Bourbon Company, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is known for its dedication to sourcing, blending, and crafting high-proof spirits, often with a unique touch. They have been a NPD (Non producing distiller) I have always enjoyed and spread the word on since the first pour of Decade Down I had. More recently, When I caught wind this was releasing, color me very interested. Not only because of the age...but where this is being sourced from.

    This release is actually coming from Canada! Now, I'll go on the record of saying I enjoy some Canadian whiskey, even though typically they are underwhelming and get a lot of crap from bourbon lovers. BUT, I have a feeling this release is not your typical Canadian whiskey, judging by the mash bill, high proof, and a true 18 year 6 month age statement.  


For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/gOhMVITIRi8.

Age Statement: 18 years 6 months.

ABV: 60%.

Mashbill: 53% rye, 39% corn, and 8% malted barley.

Area of Distillation: Canada.

Appearance: Dark amber.

Batch: C1.


On the nose:
    The aroma is a rich interplay of caramel sweetness, rye spice, and herbal undertones. Initial notes of charred oak and green apple emerge, paired with hints of tartness and subtle pepper. Despite its Canadian origin, the nose diverges from typical Canadian whiskey profiles, delivering a bold spiciness complemented by sweet and herbal layers. Over time, caramel corn and dusty corn sweetness develop, adding a comforting depth.  The aroma’s are rich and yet balanced, truly captivating.


Taste:
    The first sip delivers a wave of homemade caramel, interwoven with a vibrant rye spice that leans herbal and slightly minty. Eucalyptus emerges alongside grassy, earthy tones, giving the whiskey a fresh and botanical character. The peppery notes are well-integrated, with a charred oak backbone providing structure. Mid-palate, a touch of creamy vanilla and sweet corn dustiness balances the spicier elements, making for a cohesive yet layered experience.


Finish:
    The finish is long, warming, and evolves beautifully over time. Initially, the lingering rye spice takes center stage, delivering a bold yet balanced warmth that gently fades into a cooling eucalyptus freshness. A layer of charred oak emerges more prominently as the spice subsides, bringing a dry, smoky quality that adds complexity to the tail end. Sweet cream and vanilla whispers intertwine with soft notes of caramelized sugar, tempering the spice with a soothing sweetness.

    As the flavors gradually dissipate, subtle earthy tones—reminiscent of dried herbs and grass—linger on the palate. This is complemented by a light touch of cracked pepper and the faintest hint of cinnamon, which adds a delicate, spicy tingle. The mouthfeel during the finish remains slightly clingy, with tannins from the oak leaving a dry yet satisfying texture that invites another sip.


Final Thoughts:
   This is a unique and thrilling rye. Its combination of rich caramel sweetness, herbal complexity, and high proof makes for an engaging sip that keeps you coming back. standing out for its bold flavor profile and botanical nuances that challenge traditional Canadian whiskey expectations. Having enjoyed this sample, I was so impressed that I secured another bottle (Batch C2, a 19-year-old variant) for myself. 


Rating:  -A (Amazing).

Cost: $99.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/gOhMVITIRi8.

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt

Learn more about Backbone Bourbon Company via the link here: https://sharedpour.com/pages/search-results-page?q=backbone

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