Wheated bourbon is a type of bourbon whiskey that uses wheat in place of the traditional rye grain, making it a unique and sought-after variant. This type of bourbon has its own distinct flavor profile that makes it stand out from other bourbons.
Bourbon must legally be made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn, with the remainder usually being a combination of barley and rye. However, there is also an unofficial sub-category called “wheated” where the rye is replaced with wheat. This change typically results in a softer and sweeter flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons.
One of the most popular wheated bourbons out there is Maker's Mark, which uses 70% locally-grown corn, 16% red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley in its mash bill. Buffalo Trace also produces several wheated bourbons using their Wheated Mash foundation, such as Pappy Van Winkle.
Wheated bourbon is often regarded as having a more mellow flavor than traditional bourbon due to the sweetness of the wheat grain used in place of rye. It has been described as having notes of honey, caramel and vanilla that linger on the palate for longer than other types of bourbon due to its smoothness. Some drinkers even argue that wheated bourbons are better suited for sipping neat than other types due to their smoother flavors.
Whether you're new to whiskey or an experienced connoisseur lookng for something different, wheated bourbon can offer an interesting twist on conventional styles and can be an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore different flavors within whiskey.
What is Wheated Bourbon?
Wheated bourbon is a type of bourbon whiskey, which is a type of American whiskey made from at least 51% corn. Unlike traditional bourbons, which contain rye and malted barley in the other 49% of the mash bill, wheated bourbons replace the rye with wheat. This substitution creates a sweeter and smoother taste profile than the spicier traditional bourbon. Wheated bourbons are aged for at least two years in new charred oak barrels and must also meet all of the other requirements for classifying as bourbon accoring to U.S. law. Common wheated bourbons include Maker's Mark, WL Weller, Rebel Yell, and Old Fitzgerald.
Examples of Wheated Bourbons
Wheated bourbons are a unique type of whiskey made with wheat in addition to the typical mash bill of corn, barley, and rye. A prime example of a wheated bourbon is Maker's Mark Bourbon. This popular spirit is made from a mash bill of 70% locally-grown corn, 16% red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley. The wheat adds a distinctive sweetness to the bourbon that isn't found in other spirits. Maker's Mark has become well known for its smooth finish and light caramel notes, making it a favorite among whiskey connoisseurs.
Is Buffalo Trace Bourbon a Wheated Bourbon?
Yes, Buffalo Trace is a wheated bourbon. This means that wheat, instead of rye, is used as the secondary grain in the mash. The foundation for every single Buffalo Trace wheated bourbon is known as the Buffalo Trace Wheated Mash – a mash bill that includes corn as the primary grain and wheat as the secondary grain. In addition to Buffalo Trace, this mash bill is also used to make Pappy Van Winkle bourbons.
Is Maker's Mark a Wheated Bourbon?
Yes, Maker's Mark is a wheated bourbon. It is made with a grain mash of at least 51% corn and the remaining 49% is composed of wheat, instead of rye like most bourbons. This use of wheat gives Maker's Mark its unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons. Other popular wheated bourbons include Pappy Van Winkle, Weller, and Larceny.
Is Maker's Mark a Wheated or Rye Whiskey?
Maker's Mark is a wheated bourbon, meaning that instead of using the usual rye grain in its recipe, it utilizes soft red winter wheat. This gives Maker's Mark its signature full-flavored, smooth taste without any bitter or hot notes. The aging process is also done to taste rather than to time, further contributing to the distinctive flavor profile of this wheated bourbon.
The Taste of Wheated Bourbons
Wheated bourbons are typically characterized by a softer, sweeter flavor. Notes of vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch are often present, with a hint of fruitiness that is more pronounced than in high-rye bourbons. These flavor notes combine to create a smooth and mellow whiskey that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The unique flavor profile of wheated bourbons makes them an ideal choice for those seeking a smooth and sweet sipping whiskey.
Conclusion
Wheated bourbon is a type of bourbon that uses wheat as the secondary grain insted of rye. This creates a whiskey with a softer, sweeter flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons. It is becoming increasingly popular among whiskey connoisseurs and distillers alike due to its unique taste. Maker's Mark and Buffalo Trace Wheated Mash are two of the most popular wheated bourbons on the market at the moment, but there are many others to choose from. Whether you're looking for something with a smooth finish or something sweeter than usual, wheated bourbon provides an interesting and unique flavor that can be enjoyed by all.
