Buffalo Trace is indeed a wheated bourbon, meaning that it incorporates wheat into its mash bill. This sets it apart from other bourbons that use rye as the secondary grain. Wheated bourbons have a distinct flavor profile that is often described as smoother and softer compared to their rye-heavy counterparts.
One interesting aspect of Buffalo Trace's wheated mash bill is the use of soft red winter wheat. This type of wheat is known for its mild flavor and contributes to the overall smoothness of the bourbon. The choice of wheat in the mash bill can have a significant impact on the final product, adding subtle nuances to the flavor profile.
In the world of wheated bourbons, Buffalo Trace is highly regarded and has gained a loyal following. One of the most sought-after expressions from Buffalo Trace is the Van Winkle line, which includes the famous Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. These bourbons are known for their rich and complex flavors, with the wheat playing a supporting role in creating a velvety texture and adding a touch of sweetness.
Another notable wheated bourbon is Maker's Mark. This iconic brand also uses soft red winter wheat in its mash bill, along with corn and malted barley. Maker's Mark is known for its smooth and approachable character, with the wheat contributing to its signature sweetness and gentle spice.
Heaven Hill's Old Fitzgerald is another example of a wheated bourbon that has gained recognition among whiskey enthusiasts. With its rich history dating back to the late 1800s, Old Fitzgerald is known for its smoothness and balanced flavor profile. The use of wheat in the mash bill helps to mellow out any harsh edges and adds a touch of elegance to the bourbon.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate various wheated bourbons, including Buffalo Trace. Each one has its own unique characteristics, but they all share a common thread of smoothness and a slightly sweeter profile compared to rye-heavy bourbons. Wheated bourbons can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or even in cocktails, as they lend themselves well to a range of drinking preferences.
Buffalo Trace is indeed a wheated bourbon, and its use of soft red winter wheat in the mash bill contributes to its smooth and approachable character. Other notable wheated bourbons like Maker's Mark and Heaven Hill's Old Fitzgerald also showcase the unique qualities that wheat brings to the bourbon-making process. Exploring different wheated bourbons can be a delightful journey for whiskey enthusiasts looking to expand their palate and appreciate the nuances of this particular style of bourbon.