When it comes to bourbon, the mash bill plays a significant role in shaping the flavor profile. While most bourbons use rye as the secondary grain, wheated bourbons swap it out for wheat, resulting in a softer, sweeter, and often smoother sip. This change creates a mellow, well-rounded whiskey that appeals to both seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. If you’re looking to explore the world of wheated bourbon, these are the best bottles to add to your collection.
1. Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15-Year-Old
Arguably the most famous wheated bourbon in existence, Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year is a highly sought-after bottle that delivers unparalleled complexity. Aged for 15 years, it boasts rich caramel, vanilla, and dark fruit flavors, balanced by oak and a lingering, smooth finish. While it’s notoriously hard to find, it remains the gold standard of wheated bourbons.
You can find it here (FYI These are pricey!)
2. Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey
Often referred to as “Poor Man’s Pappy,” W.L. Weller 12-Year offers a similar wheated profile at a fraction of the cost. With notes of honey, butterscotch, and warm oak, it provides a luscious mouthfeel and long-lasting finish. This bourbon has earned a cult following for its balance and affordability (when you can find it at retail price).
3. Larceny Small Batch
Larceny Small Batch is an excellent and accessible wheated bourbon that offers a smooth, caramel-forward profile. At 92 proof, it has enough warmth without overwhelming the palate, featuring notes of toffee, cinnamon, and baked bread. It’s a great everyday sipper and a fantastic option for cocktails.
4. Maker’s Mark 46
Maker’s Mark is one of the most well-known wheated bourbon brands, and Maker’s Mark 46 takes it to the next level. This expression is aged longer with French oak staves, enhancing the vanilla, caramel, and spice notes. The result is a beautifully layered bourbon that’s both rich and incredibly smooth.
5. Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel
Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel is a hidden gem in the world of wheated bourbons. Aged for a decade, this whiskey delivers deep flavors of brown sugar, toasted oak, and dark fruit with a long, warming finish. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy a more mature, full-bodied bourbon.
6. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey
For those who prefer a higher-proof wheated bourbon, W.L. Weller Antique 107 is a must-try. This bourbon delivers bold flavors of cherry, baking spices, and caramel with a smooth yet powerful finish. Its higher proof gives it versatility, making it great for both sipping and cocktails.
7. Wilderness Trail Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon
Produced by Heaven Hill, Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond is a top-tier wheated bourbon known for its elegant profile. With notes of honey, vanilla, and toasted nuts, this bourbon is exceptionally well-balanced. The ornate decanter-style bottle adds an extra touch of luxury to this already stellar whiskey.
8. Redemption Wheated Bourbon
A newer entry into the wheated bourbon world, Redemption Wheated Bourbon offers a lighter, fruitier profile. The high wheat content results in a soft, easy-drinking whiskey with hints of apple, honey, and spice. It’s an excellent introduction to wheated bourbons for those looking for something approachable.
9. Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon
Wyoming Whiskey’s Small Batch Bourbon is a craft option that holds its own against the bigger names. Distilled and aged in Wyoming, this bourbon features notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and toasted oak, making it a smooth and enjoyable pour with a touch of frontier character.
10. Jefferson’s Ocean Wheated Voyage
For a truly unique take on wheated bourbon, Jefferson’s Ocean Wheated Voyage offers an experience like no other. Aged at sea, this bourbon develops rich caramel, salt, and spice notes due to constant movement and ocean air exposure. It’s a fascinating bourbon that offers a depth of flavor unlike any other.
Wheated bourbons offer a smooth, approachable, and often sweeter alternative to traditional rye-based bourbons. Whether you’re hunting for a rare bottle like Pappy Van Winkle or enjoying the everyday accessibility of Larceny, there’s a wheated bourbon for every palate. Have a favorite wheated bourbon that didn’t make the list? Let us know in the comments!
Now Check Out Some Great Rye Whiskies
For whiskey lovers, rye has become a cornerstone of the spirits world, thanks to its spicy character and historical significance. Rye whiskey’s bold, peppery flavor profile makes it a versatile choice for sipping neat, enjoying on the rocks, or elevating classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your rye journey, these ten bottles showcase the best of what rye whiskey has to offer.