10 Best Wheated Bourbons You’ll Love from Taster’s Club
Written by Allison K | Updated July 2023
Step into the world of wheated bourbon—known forits softer, sweeter, and more nuanced flavors. With hints of honey, caramel, and the comforting warmth of toasted oak, it offers a smoother mouthfeel compared to traditional rye-based bourbons. At Taster's Club, we always handpick the best bourbons for you to explore. If you want to enjoy it neat or in a cocktail, these selections promise a unique experience. Explore the exceptional wheated bourbon, each offering a unique flavor profile and unparalleled craftsmanship. These handpicked bottles promise to level up your bourbon experience.
Why Choose Wheated Bourbon?
Wheated bourbon is a great choice for those looking for a smoother, more approachable whiskey. Unlike rye bourbons, which can have a spicier bite, the wheat adds a soft, mellow quality that appeals to a wider audience. Its subtle sweetness and creamy texture make it a versatile option for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails. For many, wheated bourbons offer a balanced, easy-drinking experience without sacrificing flavor or complexity, making them an ideal introduction to the world of bourbon or a comforting staple for experienced whiskey drinkers.
What Does Wheated Bourbon Taste Like?
Now that you have an idea about why you should choose wheated bourbon, let’s explore its distinct tasting notes. Wheated bourbon typically offers a smooth, soft sweetness with tasting notes of vanilla, caramel, honey, and butterscotch. The wheat in the mash bill contributes to a round, mellow flavor that is less spicy compared to rye bourbons. Common flavors also include subtle hints of oak, light fruit, and a creamy texture, making it a balanced and approachable choice for whiskey lovers. The result is a refined and rich profile, often with a smooth finish that lingers pleasantly. A way to drink bourbon and enjoy it is by drinking it neat, the classic way.
1. Larceny Barrel Proof
Enjoy this wheated bourbon with a punch! Larceny Barrel Proof unleashes the full force of our celebrated wheated Bourbon mash bill, delivering an unfiltered and barrel-proof expression that captivates Bourbon enthusiasts. Released in January, May, and September, each batch represents a meticulously crafted Batch Bourbon, showcasing an unparalleled depth and character. This bold iteration, akin to its counterparts Larceny Small Batch and Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond, stands as a testament to the exceptional quality achievable with wheated bourbons, offering a bold and uniquetasting experience. Embrace the untamed spirit of Larceny Barrel Proof, celebrating the artistry behind it.
Region Kentucky | Tasting Notes Rich molasses, fig, hazelnut | ABV:Varies by Release
2. Garrison Brothers Single Barrel
Garrison Brothers Single Barrel, Texas's first legal bourbon distillery, is rooted in a passion for craftsmanship and tradition. Launched in 2006, this distillery set a high standard for wheated bourbons, using locally sourced ingredients and embracing the extreme Texas climate to create a distinctive aging process. The Single Barrel expression offers a unique, hand-selected taste experience, with velvety notes of caramel, oak, and vanilla. Its rich history and dedication to quality make it a prized selection among bourbon enthusiasts.
Region: Texas | Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, dark chocolate | ABV: 54.75%
3. Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea Wheated Bourbon
Take to the high seas of flavor with Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea wheated bourbon. This expression is fully matured for at least four years, then placed in rickhouses on ships to travel the world. This hyper-ages the bourbon which results toconstant agitation, weather conditions, and sea-salt air imparting a flavor like no other. Wheat is a softer grain than rye and will not compete with flavors as the spice of the rye does that allows the flavors intrinsic to ocean voyages to be amplified.
Region: Kentucky | Tasting Notes: Butterscotch, Toasted caramel, slight sea salt | ABV: 45%
4. W.L. Weller Full Proof
A legendary bourbon at a higher proof? Count us in! Weller Full Proof Bourbon pays homage to the legendary William Larue Weller, who crafted a unique bourbon recipe with wheat instead of rye. Bottled at the original 114 proof, this non-chill filtered wheated bourbon retains natural oils and flavors, potentially exhibiting a slight cloudiness at lower temperatures. Embracing a rich mouthfeel, it delivers robust notes of vanilla and oak. A whiskey tailored for enthusiasts seeking the unfiltered essence, it stands as a tribute to the man who elevated wheated bourbon to iconic status.
Region: Kentucky | Tasting Notes: vanilla, dark cherries, caramel | ABV: 57%
5. Redemption Wheated Bourbon
Redemption Wheated Bourbon has been doing some great things, and we have to share this great bourbon with you. oasting 45% winter wheat and a bold 96 proof is a captivating exploration of the nuanced character wheat brings to the mash bill. A testament to our unwavering commitment to crafting distinctive and compelling whiskeys, this expression has garnered numerous awards and garnered the admiration of whiskey enthusiasts.
Region: Indiana | Tasting Notes: Roasted coffee, smoked meats, hazelnut | ABV: 48%
6. Old Elk Wheated Bourbon
Old Elk has been making waves with their regular bourbon, and this expression is no different. It is no wonder we featured Old Elk in our club previously. Old Elk Straight Wheated Bourbon is a delectable and harmoniously balanced tribute to wheated bourbon enthusiasts. With our expertise honed in crafting our renowned flagship bourbon, we've elevated the wheat content to 45%, minimized corn to 51%, and added four percent malted barley. This meticulous recipe showcases each ingredient, allowing them to shine individually while harmonizing into a liquid masterpiece. It's not just bourbon; it's a testament to the exquisite fusion of success and craftsmanship.
Region: Indiana | Tasting Notes: Toffee, vanilla, toasted almonds | ABV 46%
7. Green River Wheated Bourbon
Indulge in the exquisite symphony of flavors with Green River's Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon. This exceptional bourbon boasts a delightful fragrance of peach, caramel, apricot, and cinnamon. As it dances across the palate, revel in the rich notes of toffee, pastry, and hazelnut, leading to a smooth, honeyed finish. Crafted from a classic Kentucky mash bill of 70% locally grown corn, 21% wheat, and 9% malted barley, this wheat expression offers an effortlessly enjoyable drinking experience while maintaining its unique character.
Region: Kentucky | Tasting Notes: Toffee, pastry, caramel | ABV 45%
8. Southern Star Paragon Wheated Bourbon
This has been one of our favorite features in the bourbon club this past year. Southern Star Paragon Wheated Straight Bourbon beckons with a rich, amber allure. Delight in its sweet, fruity-floral bouquet with hints of ripe apple. Each sip unfolds a complex symphony of vanilla, honey, and subtle walnut notes, guided by a lush texture. The meticulously crafted mash bill, comprising 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley, results in a 46% ABV marvel. An embodiment of precision, this bourbon delivers sophistication with a nuanced bite.
Region: North Carolina | Tasting Notes: Vanilla, honey, subtle hints of walnut | ABV: 46%
9. Old Fitzgerald 10 Year 2024
Old Fitzgerald 10 Year 2024 is a highly regarded wheated bourbon known for its smooth, well-rounded flavor profile, with rich notes of caramel, oak, and a hint of spice. Originating from the historic Old Fitzgerald brand, which dates back to the 19th century in Kentucky, this expression highlights its legacy of craftsmanship. The 10-year aging process imparts a depth and complexity, making it a standout in the wheated bourbon category. Its rarity and exceptional balance contribute to its reputation as one of the best in the market.
Region: Kentucky | Tasting Notes: Caramel, oak, honey, dark chocolate | ABV: 50%
10. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon
Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon highlights the distillery's long history of craftsmanship, originating in Bardstown, Kentucky, a region famous for bourbon production. This expression stands out for its innovative use of locally sourced grains and its unique, full-bodied flavor. The wheated mash bill contributes to a smooth and balanced taste with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. The meticulous attention to detail and dedication to quality make it a top choice among wheated bourbons.
Region: Kentucky | Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, honey, light oak | ABV: 47%
Food Pairings for Wheated Bourbon
Pairing the best wheated bourbons with food is a rewarding experience, as its sweet and smooth flavor profile complements a wide range of dishes. For a savory pairing, try it with grilled meats, particularly steaks or pork, where the bourbon’s sweetness balances the richness of the meat. It also works well with hearty comfort foods like mac and cheese or roasted vegetables. For dessert, wheated bourbons pairs beautifully with chocolate-based treats, such as brownies or dark chocolate tarts, where the bourbon's sweetness brings out the deep flavors of cocoa.
Get the Best Wheated Bourbon Today
Wheated bourbons have earned their place as a standout category in the whiskey world, loved for their smooth and sweet profiles with added depth and complexity. These top wheated bourbons continue to impress, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and flavors that appeal to both whiskey novices and connoisseurs. Their unique flavors make them an excellent choice for anyone seeking to explore a distinctive bourbon experience.
With so many amazing choices, we understand if you’re not sure where to start. Good news, we’ve got the perfect solution for that – a membership to our Bourbon Club. It takes just moments to sign up, and then all you have to do is sit back, relax, and await a brand-new bottle sent directly to you every month. Join our Bourbon Club today and start enjoying exceptional bourbons delivered right to your door.
FAQs About the Top Wheated Bourbons
If you're new to wheated bourbons or looking to expand your collection, you might have some questions. Below, we address the most common inquiries about these smooth, sweet whiskies, from what makes them different to how best to enjoy them.
What makes wheated bourbon different from regular bourbon?
Wheated bourbon uses wheat instead of rye in the mash bill, which softens the flavor and imparts a smoother, sweeter profile. This results in a richer, more mellow taste that appeals to those who prefer a less spicy and more approachable whiskey.
What makes wheated bourbon different from regular bourbon?
Some of the most popular wheated bourbons include Maker's Mark, Larceny, and Weller. Each offers its unique flavor profile, with common notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla.
How should I drink wheated bourbon?
Wheated bourbons are versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in bourbon cocktails. Their smooth flavor also makes them great for sipping slowly to appreciate their complexity.
