Bardstown Bourbon Co. Embraces Wheat in New Addition to Core Lineup

(Photo: Bardstown Bourbon Company)

On Tuesday, Bardstown Bourbon Co. expanded its house-distilled Origin Series with what it claims to be the first 39% wheat mashbill bourbon available on the market.

Dubbed Origin High Wheat, the permanent addition to Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s portfolio is aged six years and bottled at 106 proof. Its mashbill of 53% corn, 39% wheat and 8% barley is said to imbue an extra layer of sweetness beyond the brand’s usual repertoire.

Expect aromas of ripe apricot, lemon, leather and crème brûlée paired with a bold palate of oak and pastry. The expression is now available online at a suggested retail price of $49.99.

The release was overseen by head distiller Nick Smith with a helping hand from master distiller Steve Nally. Considered “employee #1” at Bardstown Bourbon Co. since its inception in 2014, Nally’s nearly 50-year career got its start at Maker’s Mark in 1972. In 2009, he had a hand in founding Wyoming Whiskey.

He’s also been dubbed the Hall of Fame “Wheat King.” When Nally praised Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s latest Origin bottling, Smith knew he had a hit on his hands.

“Once we perfected the distillate, we focused on the aging modifications that would make this whiskey best-in-class,” Smith remarked in a news release. “The lower barrel entry proof of 108 pulls more wood sugars in from the onset, leading to a drinking experience that is elegant and complex.”

Origin High Wheat is the fourth addition to Bardstown Bourbon Co.’s house-distilled portfolio, joining a flagship Bourbon, Wheated Bottled-In-Bond and Double Barrel Rye all available for under $60.

Elsewhere, the brand has acted as a bottler to great effect. Its blended Discovery Series has put out some fantastic juice over the years, with 2023’s Discovery #11 being our personal favorite. Bardstown has also worked alongside wine, beer and spirits producers in its expansive Collaborative Series. Its crossover with Foursquare Rum — loaded with flavors of maple, tobacco, ginger and root beer — is the highest ranked of the bunch with a Raided Score® of 93.

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