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. Four Roses Single Barrel
Four Roses is known for its meticulous blending and unique yeast strains, and its Single Barrel expression is a standout high-rye bourbon. With a mash bill containing 35% rye, it delivers bold spice, caramel, and dark fruit notes with a long, dry finish. This bourbon is aged in carefully selected barrels, ensuring a consistently smooth yet complex experience. Whether enjoyed neat or in a classic cocktail, Four Roses Single Barrel showcases a well-balanced interplay of rye spice and bourbon sweetness.
2. Old Grand-Dad 114
Packing a punch at 114 proof, Old Grand-Dad 114 is an underrated gem among high-rye bourbons. It features a 30% rye content, bringing forward rich cinnamon, black pepper, and toasted oak flavors with a fiery yet smooth finish. The high proof intensifies the spiciness, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a bolder sip. Despite its intensity, the bourbon remains approachable, offering layers of vanilla and caramel beneath its spice-forward profile.
3. Basil Hayden’s
A lighter, more approachable high-rye bourbon, Basil Hayden’s is perfect for those who want spice without overwhelming heat. It carries delicate floral, pepper, and honey notes, making it an excellent sipper or cocktail base. With its lower proof and smooth texture, this bourbon is a great introduction to the high-rye category. Its mild yet flavorful profile allows drinkers to explore the nuances of rye spice without overpowering the palate.
4. Redemption High-Rye Bourbon
With a mash bill featuring 36% rye, Redemption High-Rye Bourbon is designed for those who love a punchy, spicy whiskey. It offers layers of baking spices, toffee, and citrus zest, culminating in a crisp, refreshing finish. The high rye content makes it particularly vibrant, delivering a sharp, peppery sensation that lingers pleasantly. This bourbon is perfect for those who enjoy a spicier edge, whether sipped neat or incorporated into an Old Fashioned.
5. Belle Meade Bourbon
Belle Meade Bourbon, produced by Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, contains around 30% rye, offering a balanced mix of sweetness and spice. Expect flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and black tea with a pleasantly warm finish. The influence of the rye is evident in the bourbon’s bold structure, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a layered and dynamic whiskey. Whether enjoyed straight or in a Manhattan, Belle Meade delivers a consistently rewarding drinking experience.
6. 1792 High Rye Bourbon
Known for its bold character, 1792 High Rye Bourbon enhances the classic bourbon sweetness with a significant rye kick. Rich notes of clove, dark chocolate, and caramelized sugar make this an excellent choice for those who enjoy depth in their whiskey. The addition of rye gives this bourbon an extra dimension, making it slightly sharper than its traditional counterparts. Its full-bodied texture and lingering warmth make it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
You can find it here (High Rye is made one a year in limited batches so keepyour eye out for it – this link is for their straight bourbon)
7. Smoke Wagon Straight Bourbon
Smoke Wagon Straight Bourbon has gained a cult following for its high-rye mash bill and bold flavor profile. With a rye content of approximately 36%, this bourbon delivers layers of black pepper, cinnamon, and honey, balanced by caramel and dark fruit undertones. The combination of spice and sweetness creates a dynamic drinking experience that evolves with every sip. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or new to high-rye bourbons, Smoke Wagon offers an exciting and rewarding pour.
8. Wild Turkey 101
A staple in the world of high-rye bourbons, Wild Turkey 101 balances bold spice with sweet caramel and vanilla undertones. The high proof (101) enhances its complexity, making it a versatile option for sipping or mixing. The combination of bold rye spice and classic bourbon sweetness gives this whiskey an unforgettable profile. It’s a go-to option for those who enjoy a well-structured, full-bodied bourbon with a touch of heat.
9. Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is widely recognized for its high-rye content (approximately 28%). This results in a robust flavor profile with notes of nutmeg, anise, and tobacco, making it an excellent choice for fans of spicy whiskey. The distinct rye influence gives it a crisp, dry finish that contrasts beautifully with its caramel and oak base. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Bulleit Bourbon remains a top-tier high-rye whiskey choice.
10. Knob Creek 9-Year Bourbon
Aged for nine years, Knob Creek Bourbon features a high-rye mash bill that brings forward flavors of toasted nuts, baking spices, and caramel. Its well-rounded profile makes it a favorite among those looking for a bold yet smooth bourbon experience. The extended aging process allows the bourbon to develop deep, complex flavors, creating a whiskey that is both rich and inviting. Its spicy kick is balanced by sweet, oaky undertones, making it a must-try for high-rye enthusiasts.
High-rye bourbons offer a dynamic combination of sweetness and spice, making them an exciting choice for whiskey lovers who crave complexity. Whether you prefer the bold intensity of Old Grand-Dad 114 or the refined spice of Basil Hayden’s, there’s a high-rye bourbon for every palate.
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.