Backbone Bourbon Prime is a small batch blended bourbon whiskey from Backbone Bourbon Company, distilled in Lawrenceburg, Indiana and bottled in Bardstown, Kentucky. Conceived as a throwback to the original Backbone Uncut release, Prime brings together a blend of straight bourbons of varying ages, a touch of young straight rye whiskey, and a splash of older light whiskey for added depth and structure. The result is a high proof, cocktail ready bourbon built to stand up in mixed drinks without losing its backbone, yet complex enough to enjoy neat or with a single rock. Bottled at a muscular 52% ABV and 104 proof, Prime offers genuine craft character and unusual blending transparency at an accessible everyday price, making it a favorite of bartenders looking for an Old Fashioned base that punches above its weight.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
Backbone Bourbon Company |
| Distilled |
Lawrenceburg, Indiana (MGP) |
| Bottled |
Bardstown, Kentucky |
| Type |
Blended Bourbon Whiskey — Small Batch |
| Blend Components |
Straight bourbons (varying ages), young straight rye, older light whiskey |
| Age |
No age statement (components range from 2 to 14 years across batches) |
| ABV |
52% |
| Proof |
104 Proof |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States |
| Region |
Indiana / Kentucky |
| Packaging |
Black label with gold typography, wax sealed cap |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep amber with warm copper highlights.
Nose: Warm baking spice, vanilla, and soft citrus, with apricot and maple leading into tobacco leaf and ripe blackberry. A kitchen full of fresh baking with a hint of orchard fruit.
Palate: Cocoa and malt arrive first, layered with dark and light fruit, followed by dry tobacco, coffee, and a gentle pepper lift from the rye component. Tannic structure gives it a grapefruit like mouthfeel.
Finish: Long and dry with lingering licorice, roasted coffee, and a subtle sweetness from the older light whiskey.
FAQ
What is a blended bourbon whiskey?
Blended bourbon by federal definition must contain at least 51% straight bourbon whiskey, with the remainder made up of other whiskeys. Backbone Prime leans on that structure by combining multiple straight bourbons of different ages, a young straight rye, and a small percentage of older light whiskey for added complexity and proof.
Who makes Backbone Bourbon Prime?
Backbone Bourbon Company sources their spirit from MGP in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, the same distillery behind many craft whiskey brands, and bottles in Bardstown, Kentucky. Each batch lists its unique blend composition, making Backbone one of the more transparent sourced whiskey producers.
What is Backbone Prime best used for?
Prime was built with cocktails in mind. The 104 proof structure cuts through mixers and bitters in an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Boulevardier without getting lost. It also holds up neat or over a large cube for sippers who like a spicier, more assertive pour.
Where can I buy Backbone Bourbon Prime online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
