The Most Commonly Available Wheated Bourbon Whiskies and My Personal Favorites

Wheated bourbons have become increasingly popular among Bourbon enthusiasts in recent years. While the term 'wheated bourbon' might be relatively new to some, it has a rich history and several well-regarded brands. In this article, I will discuss the most commonly available wheated bourbons, their characteristics, and some of my personal favorites based on my experiences.

Introduction to Wheated Bourbons

Wheated bourbon, a type of bourbon whiskey that uses wheat as an additional grain component besides the more traditional corn and rye, has a distinct flavor profile. It often has a smoother texture and a lighter body, which contributes to a unique taste that sets it apart from its peers. This variant gained popularity with the introduction of Maker's Mark in the 1980s, which was famously associated with the Kentucky Derby festivities.

Commonly Available Wheated Bourbons

Several brands of wheated bourbons are widely available, each offering its own unique qualities. Major distributors and brands include:

Maker's Mark: Known for its distinctive red wax seal and sweet flavor, this wheated bourbon is one of the most popular and accessible. W.L. Weller: A brand associated with two iconic whiskeys, Weller and Van Winkle, with its 107 proof bottle being particularly notable. Redemption: A wheated bourbon that has become a favorite among collectors, known for its smoothness and complexity. Pappy Van Winkle: A highly sought-after brand, especially for its 20 and 23-year-old wheated expressions. Wellers Special Reserve: This American whiskey is known for its smooth finish and is a favorite among whiskey fans. Barton Old Elk: Known for its lighter, wheat-forward profile, Barton Old Elk is a contemporary take on the wheated bourbon tradition. WhistlePig: A brand that offers wheated and rye expressions, known for its robust character and premium pricing. Larceny: Another brand produced by Heaven Hill that is highly regarded for its smooth, well-balanced taste.

Among these brands, some are more widely available than others. For instance, Maker's Mark and W.L. Weller are judged highly by many enthusiasts. Some of the other brands, like Pappy Van Winkle, are more expensive and considered more exclusive.

Distillator Brands and Their Wheated Bourbons

Major distillery brands that produce wheated bourbons include:

Heaven Hill: Known for producing Larceny and Old Fitzgerald, both of which are staple options for those interested in wheated bourbon. Buffalo Trace: This brand produces not only W.L. Weller but also Pappy Van Winkle, both of which are highly regarded wheated bourbons. Beam Suntory: Famous for Maker's Mark, which is one of the world's best-known wheated bourbons.

While these brands are well-known for their wheated expressions, it's also worth noting that some other distilleries produce wheated and 4-grain whiskies, though they might not be as widely available.

My Personal Favorites

Among all the wheated bourbons I've tried, some stand out for their unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Maker's 46: My favorite wheated bourbon. It offers a balanced mix of sweetness and complexity, making it very versatile. Larceny: Another favorite, Larceny by Heaven Hill is known for its exceptional smoothness and value. Old Weller Antique 107: This is a premium whisky that offers a rich, full-bodied flavor with a smooth finish, although it is a bit more expensive. Maker's 46 Private Selection: A newer release that offers an even more robust flavor, it’s a favorite among connoisseurs. Old Fitzgerald Fall 2019 Release 9 Year Black Label: This expression was exceptionally good and offers a unique blend of complexity and smoothness.

While taste is subjective, these whiskeys have consistently received high praise from me and other whiskey enthusiasts. Whether you're a casual drinker enjoying a Manhattan with a splash of soda or a serious collector seeking the perfect aged whiskey, these wheated bourbons have something to offer.

Conclusion

The world of wheated bourbons is diverse and exciting, offering a variety of flavors and profiles to suit different tastes. From the iconic Maker's Mark to the more exclusive Pappy Van Winkle, there are several brands out there that cater to both new and experienced whiskey aficionados. Whether you're trying wheated bourbon for the first time or you're a seasoned connoisseur, there's always something new to explore and enjoy.