Wheated Bourbon Guide

Wheated bourbon offers a sophisticated twist to the traditional bourbon portfolio, recognized for its smooth and sweeter taste profile. By substituting rye with wheat in the mash bill, this style presents an accessible flavor profile that appeals to both novice bourbon aficionados and seasoned experts. At elevated proofs, these bourbons unveil complex flavors that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Wheated bourbons adhere to stringent production criteria consistent with all bourbons: a mash composition of no less than 51% corn, maturation in new, charred oak barrels, and production within the United States, with no additives beyond water. Unlike conventional bourbons that incorporate rye as a secondary grain, wheated bourbons utilize wheat, crafting a spirit distinguished by caramel, honey, and vanilla notes, occasionally accented by traces of fruit and mint, culminating in a refined finish.

Despite its nomenclature similarity, wheat whiskey is fundamentally distinct, requiring at least 51% wheat in its mash, resulting in a lighter, more nuanced spirit. While wheated bourbons retain traditional bourbon's depth, they offer a refined, grain-forward profile.

Tracing its origins to the early 1900s, Old Fitzgerald is credited as the pioneering producer of wheated bourbon. Founded by bourbon innovator William Larue Weller in 1870, it produced a sweeter bourbon variant, appealing to those seeking a less robust alternative to the predominant spicy ryes.

Weller's methodology echoed the "smooth whiskey" trend, as consumers gravitated towards spirits conducive to easy sipping. The allure of wheated bourbon intensified during Prohibition, with bootleggers promoting smoother products to broaden their appeal.

The W.L. Weller line ranges from entry-level to ultra-premium expressions, acclaimed for their use of the Van Winkle mash bill, often commanding premium prices in the market. Similarly, Van Winkle bourbons are esteemed for their scarcity and elevated pricing, renowned for their exceptional flavor profiles.

Leading brands synonymous with wheated bourbons include Maker's Mark, Weller, Van Winkle, Larceny, and Old Fitzgerald. These brands, particularly those linked to the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery, have played pivotal roles in elevating this style's profile. Maker's Mark, notably, is celebrated for its singular bourbon recipe, meticulously refined for a consistently smooth and sweet experience.

Maker's Mark is a hallmark of the wheated bourbon category, renowned for its signature smooth and sweet profile. Conceived by Bill Samuels Sr., the Maker's Mark recipe was designed to craft a bourbon he relished. His aim was for a "smooth" and balanced bourbon, devoid of harshness or bitterness, identifying soft red winter wheat as critical to achieving this vision. Today, Maker's Mark is steadfast in producing a singular bourbon recipe, diversifying with an array of expressions, including wood-finished options.

Larceny Bourbon, since its 2012 launch, has effectively established a dedicated following. Produced by Heaven Hill, Larceny features a high-wheat mash bill, offering a rich, multifaceted flavor. Its approachability and cost-effectiveness render it an optimal choice for both newcomers and seasoned bourbon patrons.

Old Fitzgerald by Heaven Hill is distinguished for its Bottled-in-Bond editions, elegantly presented in decanter-style bottles, highly prized by collectors. Recently launched, a new 7-Year-Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond has joined the lineup, marketed at a recommended retail price of $50, substantially more affordable than traditional Old Fitzgerald Bourbons.

Wheated bourbons pair exceptionally well with a wide array of foods, from rich meats and creamy cheeses to luxurious desserts, accentuating their unique characteristics when consumed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. In classic libations like the Old Fashioned, their natural sweetness harmonizes seamlessly with sugar and bitters, creating smooth, flavorful experiences. In a Boulevardier, substituting rye with wheated bourbon introduces a softer, sweeter dimension that beautifully complements the cocktail's components.

Celebrated for their inviting sweetness and refined profile, wheated bourbons preserve the complexity and depth intrinsic to traditional offerings. With venerable brands and emerging craft distilleries offering innovative interpretations, the world of wheated bourbon presents a diverse array of options, making this an exceptional time to explore and identify your preferred expression.