As a sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about wheated bourbon. Wheated bourbon is a type of bourbon that includes wheat in its mash bill. To be classified as bourbon, a whiskey must be made in the United States and contain at least 51 percent corn in its mash bill. The remaining grains used in bourbon production are typically rye and malted barley. However, wheated bourbon differs by either adding wheat to the traditional mash bill of corn, rye, and barley, or by substituting wheat for the rye.
The addition of wheat in the mash bill gives wheated bourbon a distinct flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons. Wheat tends to impart a softer, smoother, and slightly sweeter character to the whiskey. It can also contribute to a creamier mouthfeel and a more mellow finish. The presence of wheat can result in a more balanced and rounded flavor profile, with less emphasis on the spiciness that rye typically brings to bourbon.
One famous example of a wheated bourbon is Maker's Mark. Maker's Mark is known for its use of red winter wheat in its mash bill, which gives the bourbon its signature smoothness and subtle sweetness. The addition of wheat in Maker's Mark creates a unique flavor profile that has made it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts.
Another well-known wheated bourbon is Pappy Van Winkle. Pappy Van Winkle is highly regarded for its rich and complex flavors, which are attributed in part to its use of wheat instead of rye. The wheat adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the bourbon, making it a sought-after and highly prized spirit among collectors and connoisseurs.
Wheated bourbons can vary in their composition, with some using a higher percentage of wheat in the mash bill compared to others. This variation can influence the overall flavor profile of the bourbon, with higher wheat content potentially resulting in a more pronounced sweetness and smoother texture.
Wheated bourbon is a type of bourbon that includes wheat in its mash bill. The addition of wheat imparts a softer, smoother, and slightly sweeter character to the bourbon. Wheated bourbons like Maker's Mark and Pappy Van Winkle are highly regarded for their unique flavor profiles and have gained a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts.