Not all bourbons are created equal. Whereas all bourbon should be made out of no less than 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, the secondary grain within the mash invoice performs a significant function in shaping the ultimate taste. Most use rye, which provides spice and chew, however swap that rye for wheat, and the result’s one thing altogether softer, rounder, and sweeter.
That delicate grain change is behind the rise of “wheated bourbon,” a time period that’s immediately in every single place in 2025. From cult bottles like Weller to classics like Maker’s Mark, wheated bourbons are seeing a surge in reputation. This text breaks down what wheated bourbon is, why it’s trending now, and whether or not it’s well worth the hype.
What Precisely Is Wheated Bourbon?
Wheated bourbon is just bourbon the place wheat replaces rye because the secondary grain within the mash invoice. The authorized necessities don’t change: it nonetheless should be no less than 51% corn, distilled beneath 160 proof, and aged in new white oak barrels. However as a substitute of the sharp, peppery notes that rye brings, wheat delivers a softer, sweeter character.
Most wheated bourbons comply with a method of round 70% corn, 16–20% wheat, and the rest malted barley. That shift could appear minor, but it surely has a big effect on the flavour.
The wheat permits the corn’s pure sweetness and the barrel’s vanilla and caramel notes to come back by way of extra clearly.
The result’s a bourbon that’s typically smoother, simpler to sip, and sometimes described as mellow or creamy on the palate.
Why Is Wheated Bourbon Trending in 2025?
Wheated bourbon isn’t new, however its reputation has exploded in recent times, thanks partially to social media, collector tradition, and the halo impact of 1 legendary title: Pappy Van Winkle.
Bourbon followers on TikTok, Instagram, and whiskey boards have turned wheated bottles like W.L. Weller into cult favorites. Posts evaluating Weller to Pappy (each made at Buffalo Hint utilizing the identical wheated recipe) have solely fueled demand.
Shortage has additionally performed a job. Weller’s retail worth sits round $30, however good luck discovering it at that worth. Restricted provide and excessive demand have created a secondary market the place costs often triple or extra. And when bottles are exhausting to search out, their attract solely grows.
Much more accessible manufacturers like Maker’s Mark and Larceny are using the wave. Whether or not it’s the hunt for Pappy, the rise of “clean” as a promoting level, or only a shift in style preferences, wheated bourbon is certainly having a second.
What Does Wheated Bourbon Style Like?
Wheated bourbon is thought for its smooth, candy, and easygoing taste. With out rye’s peppery spice, the profile leans into caramel, vanilla, honey, and delicate oak. Some drinkers additionally discover hints of baked bread or smooth fruit.
In comparison with rye-based bourbons, it’s smoother, with much less burn and a creamier mouthfeel. If rye bourbon is daring and spicy, wheated bourbon is mellow and spherical, supreme for sipping neat and approachable for newcomers.
The Finest Wheated Bourbons to Attempt Proper Now
You don’t must lay our a fortune or win the lottery to discover wheated bourbon. Listed below are among the most notable choices on cabinets right this moment, from on a regular basis staples to sought-after collector bottles.
Maker’s Mark
The traditional. Tender, candy, and broadly obtainable, Maker’s Mark presents notes of caramel, vanilla, and delicate oak at 90 proof. It’s a clean, simple sipper and an ideal place to begin. Round $20-$30.
Larceny Small Batch
Produced by Heaven Hill, Larceny provides a contact extra spice whereas holding the sweetness. Search for honey, toffee, and baking spices. Typically thought of top-of-the-line values in wheated bourbon. Round $28.
Insurgent 100
A budget-friendly possibility with a bit extra kick at 100 proof. It’s not as refined as others, however for the worth, it delivers an honest wheated profile. Round $20.
W.L. Weller Particular Reserve
Buffalo Hint’s gateway to Pappy. Tender, clean, and candy—however more and more exhausting to search out. MSRP is round $30, but it surely typically sells for $100+ on secondary markets.
Pappy Van Winkle
The parable, the legend. Further-aged wheated bourbon with deep complexity, however retail costs are virtually irrelevant. Should you discover one at MSRP, you’ve hit the jackpot. Count on $1,000+ on the resale market. The 23 Yr Outdated is promoting for $3,700+ at some retailers proper now.
Should you’re simply getting began, Maker’s Mark or Larceny provide wonderful introductions with out the hunt.
Is Wheated Bourbon Higher?
That depends upon what you want. Wheated bourbon isn’t higher than rye-based bourbon; it’s simply totally different. It swaps spice for sweetness, punch for smoothness. For a lot of, that makes it simpler to drink. For others, it could actually come throughout as too smooth or one-dimensional.
One of the best ways to search out out which one is for you is to strive each! Style Maker’s Mark subsequent to a rye-forward bourbon like Wild Turkey 101 and revel within the distinction.
Remaining Ideas
Wheated bourbon has stepped out of the shadows in 2025, and for good motive. A easy change from rye to wheat creates a smoother, sweeter bourbon that’s profitable over new drinkers and seasoned followers alike.
Whether or not you’re chasing a bottle of Weller or simply need one thing simple to sip after work, there’s a wheated bourbon on the market price your time. Begin with one thing accessible like Maker’s Mark or Larceny, and see if the softer facet of bourbon fits your style.
Hype apart, wheated bourbon earns its place on the shelf. You simply should determine if it earns a spot in your glass.
