We turn our attention to Backbone Bourbon The Forge bottled at 55% ABV). At $89.99, it enters a competitive field.
Nose
as well as offer a smoother experience. Im glad to see that Backbone Bourbon Company keeps adding to their arsenal expressions that have built upon their prior experiments, keeping in the long tradition of blenders saying This is great! But what if we can make it BETTER? We review Backbone Bourbon The Forge, a blended bourbon whiskey put together from several types of Indiana distilled whiskey. (image via Backbone Bourbon) Tasting Notes: Backbone Bourbon The Forge Vital Stats: A blend of 5-7 year straight bourbon, 8 year rye, and 14-year-old light whiskey. 110 proof (55% ABV). $89.99/750ml (variable dependent on state). Appearance: Pale orange with amber hues. Nose: Sweet notes of honey and cream soda appear before the bourbon notes of ginger and oak take root. Somehow eucalyptus finds its way into the mix. Palate: Sweet roses, butter and sugar cane drip onto the tongue. The whiskey warms to a strong ginger spice with a tad of malt before rye rushes in, pushing allspice and cinnamon. The finish is butter and hazelnuts.
Palate
Backbone Bourbon has delivered quite the pleasant surprise. The whiskey is impeccably crafted, producing a flavor that is different from the standard bourbon profile I am used to. The mix of the corn whiskey adds a touch of butter and sugar cane notes, without detracting from the bourbon core, making the spirit more approachable, much like a wheated bourbon. The age is evident as well, as the whiskey goes down very smooth. rnrnGreat job Backbone, you hit it out of the park. But you know the craft whiskey motto: This is great! But what if we can make it BETTER? I look forward to your extra-extra old version.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
Backbone Bourbon The Forge delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $89.99 price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
