Backwoods Shiraz Barrel

92
Price Range
$150-$180
Style
Single malt
Age
5 years
Country
Australia
Region
Victoria
ABV
46%
Volume
700ml
Appearance
Burnt orange
Nose
Caramel with hints of smokey cinnamon layered over peach and vanilla
Palate
Smooth malt with plenty of barley and cereal and hints of buttered toast
Finish
Intense wave of spice moves quickly to a very pleasant sweet sugary plum and rich wine richness
Impression
If you have tried this whisky what did you think?
Not for me
I liked it
I loved it!
Backwoods

Flavour Profile

Fruit
5
Malt
5
Marine
0
Mineral
0
Oil
3
Smoke
1
Spice
4
Sweet
7
Wood
5

Review

We were keen to try another Backwoods after enjoying their White Rye, as this looked like a more traditional expression of single malt whisky finished in ex-Shiraz barrels. It far exceeded our expectations thanks to the unique sugary plum finish, which lifted the entire experience up a notch or two. This is a very enjoyable whisky, especially for those with a sweet tooth, built on a smooth malt character with plenty of barley, cereal and buttered toast. The whisky is very balanced with notes of vanilla, fruit and wood, resulting in a complex but extremely approachable dram that is sure to be a hit, with a chewy caramel toffee texture that lingers nicely through to the finish.

- Two Whiskey Guys, 2026

Food Pairing

This whisky pairs beautifully with:

Occasion

Anniversary or a winter gathering with a few special friends who appreciate something a bit different. Great for those already familiar with Backwoods, or as an introduction if you enjoyed their White Rye.

Right for you?

If you want something special and unique with a distinctly Australian twist from the ex-Shiraz barrels, then this is well worth seeking out. It's not cheap, but for a special occasion or as a gift for a best friend or anniversary, it more than justifies the price.

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Backwoods Shiraz Barrel Review | Two Whiskey Guys