WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne at 48.28% ABV), 750 ml bottle MSRP $49 — at $49.99, Product of Vermont, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
Strong alcohol forwardness on the nose with grassy notes of cinnamon, orchard fruits, caramel, and oak sawdust.
Palate
The palate offers a fierce combo of spicy black pepper and cinnamon along with very earthy, grassy notes of dry hay, raw green apple, walnut, damp topsoil, root licorice, and black jelly bean.
Finish
This rye whiskey has intense organic characteristics, a surprisingly creamy texture, and a slow burn of a long finish. The flavor balance leans more towards grassy earthiness with very little floral or sweet notes, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Its not very complex in that it boldly clings to its discernibly organic flavor profile. While it may not be the smoothest and most approachable rye for newcomers, I can see it being highly favored by those who prefer a more raw, unadulterated whiskey.
The Bottom Line
WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne is fine — not bad, not great, just fine. At $49.99, Product of Vermont, I think there are better options in this range if you are willing to look around.
