WhistlePig PiggyBack 6 Year Straight Rye Whiskey: The Bartender's Best Friend
Unleash the full, unadulterated flavor of rye with WhistlePig PiggyBack 6 Year Straight Rye Whiskey. Crafted by WhistlePig's Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell, this expression was specifically designed to be the ultimate bartender's rye – bold enough to stand out in any cocktail, yet smooth enough to be enjoyed neat. PiggyBack is a tribute to the quintessential American whiskey, delivering robust rye character at an exceptional value.
WhistlePig PiggyBack 6 Year is made from a high-rye mash bill, typically 100% rye, staying true to WhistlePig's commitment to the grain. This straight rye whiskey is aged for a full 6 years in new charred American oak barrels. While WhistlePig now distills whiskey on its farm, the PiggyBack expression has historically been sourced, ensuring consistency and quality before undergoing finishing and bottling at the WhistlePig Farm in Shoreham, Vermont.
Bottled at a powerful 96.56 Proof (48.28% ABV), PiggyBack strikes a perfect balance between strength and approachability. This higher proof ensures its robust flavor cuts through mixers, making it ideal for classic cocktails, while its six years of aging provide a smoothness that belies its intensity, allowing for enjoyable neat sipping as well. It's a versatile workhorse, designed to be impactful in any application.
Key Characteristics:
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Designed by Dave Pickerell: Master Distiller Dave Pickerell's vision for a versatile, bartender-friendly rye.
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High Rye Mash Bill (100% Rye): Delivers a classic, assertive rye spice profile.
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Aged 6 Years: Matured in new charred American oak for a well-developed, rich flavor.
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Optimal Proof (96.56 Proof / 48.28% ABV): Bold enough for cocktails, smooth enough for sipping.
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Versatile: Engineered for exceptional performance in mixed drinks and enjoyable neat.
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Straight Rye Whiskey: Adheres to strict American whiskey regulations.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Rich, burnished gold.
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Nose: Vibrant and inviting, with prominent notes of fresh dill, baking spice (cinnamon, clove), and black pepper. Hints of orange peel, caramel, and a subtle herbaceousness provide depth.
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Palate: Full-bodied and robust, coating the palate with a lively burst of rye spice. Flavors of rich vanilla, caramel, and charred oak are beautifully balanced by zesty citrus, more prominent black pepper, and notes of mint and green apple.
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Finish: Long, warm, and satisfyingly spicy. Lingering notes of rye spice, sweet oak, and a hint of dark chocolate provide a crisp and flavorful conclusion, holding its own whether neat or in a cocktail.
Awards & Recognition:
WhistlePig PiggyBack 6 Year Straight Rye Whiskey has quickly earned acclaim for its quality and value:
- Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC).
- 92 Points, Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
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Highly praised by bartenders and critics for its exceptional performance in cocktails and its bold, authentic rye character at its price point.
Overall Impression:
WhistlePig PiggyBack 6 Year Straight Rye Whiskey is the ultimate expression of a workhorse rye, built to perform. Its robust flavor, ample proof, and careful aging make it an indispensable spirit for anyone who loves cocktails, particularly those that call for a strong rye backbone. Whether you're crafting a classic Old Fashioned, a zesty Manhattan, or simply enjoying it neat to appreciate its unadulterated character, PiggyBack delivers a consistently bold, smooth, and genuinely enjoyable rye experience.
