Backbone Bourbon Estate Special Barrel Series Blended Rye Whiskey is a 110-proof Indiana rye whiskey aged 5 years, crafted from curated barrels that are blended and rebarreled to develop exceptional depth and character. This special barrel series from 8th Day Distillery represents the mastery of combining distinct barrels rather than relying on single barrel expressions, creating complex flavor combinations through careful blending and additional maturation.

From the limestone-rich soils of Indiana comes this testament to the blender's art, where 8th Day Distillery has perfected the technique of marrying carefully selected barrels to achieve flavors greater than their individual parts. The Estate Special Barrel Series showcases their philosophy that the whole can be greater than the sum, with each barrel in the blend contributing its own character before being rebarreled to further develop complexity and integrate the disparate elements into a harmonious whole.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Toasted rye spice, charred oak, vanilla bean, cinnamon bark, dried orange peel
• Palate: Bold rye pepper, caramelized brown sugar, leather, dark chocolate, clove spice
• Finish: Long with lingering rye spice, oak tannins, warm baking spices

Product Details

Perfect For

• Neat Sipping: The high proof and complex blending showcase the whiskey's full character
• Whiskey Collectors: Limited barrel series with unique blending and rebarreling process
• Cocktail Crafting: Bold rye character stands up beautifully in classic rye cocktails
• Evening Contemplation: Complex enough to reward slow, thoughtful sipping by the fireplace

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Backbone Bourbon Estate Special Barrel Series taste like?

This blended rye whiskey delivers bold rye spice on the palate with notes of caramelized brown sugar, leather, and dark chocolate. The nose offers toasted rye spice and charred oak with vanilla undertones, while the finish provides a long, warming experience with persistent rye spice and oak tannins.

Is Backbone Bourbon Estate Special Barrel Series good for cocktails?

Yes, the 110-proof strength and robust rye character make this excellent for cocktails. The bold spice profile won't get lost when mixed, making it ideal for Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, or Sazeracs where you want the rye character to shine through.

How should I drink Backbone Bourbon Estate Special Barrel Series?

This whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up the complex flavors developed through the blending and rebarreling process. The high proof can handle dilution while still maintaining its character, so experiment to find your preferred strength.

What makes this different from single barrel rye whiskeys?

Unlike single barrel expressions, this Special Barrel Series represents the art of blending multiple curated barrels, then rebarreling the blend for additional maturation. This process allows the distillery to create flavor combinations that wouldn't be possible from a single barrel alone.

Is Backbone Bourbon Estate Special Barrel Series worth the investment?

For rye whiskey enthusiasts and those interested in unique production methods, this offers excellent value. The combination of 5-year aging, innovative blending techniques, and 110-proof strength delivers complexity typically found in more expensive expressions.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.