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The Best Wheated Bourbons To Try When You Can’t Find Pappy

We know, we know. We hear it every day. Try as you might, you’re not likely to find the white whale of bourbon, Pappy Van Winkle in Wisconsin. Thankfully, there are plenty of absurdly delicious, readily available wheated bourbon alternatives that don’t cost a paycheck. Check out excerpts from an article in Men’s Health on their picks that rival Pappy.

What is a Wheated Bourbon?

Simply, it’s a bourbon with a mash bill that uses more wheat grains in lieu of the traditional rye as the second ingredient, behind corn.

“Many people are turned off by the bourbon category because the spice in the whiskey is too much,” explains Flavien Desoblin, owner of Brandy Library, two of the most prominent whiskey bars in New York City. “The rye is what gives you that spice. Remove the rye from the equation, and you end up with a bourbon that is softer, sweeter, and more fruity; a bourbon most people like.”.

Here Are Three “Wheaters” You Will Love

Find them near you with our FREE Badger Liquor Product Finder App

Rebel Yell 100 Proof Bourbon

Rebel Yell 100 is “really good and solid, especially for the price.” It’s bottled at 50 percent ABV, higher than the regular Rebel Yell and rumor has it that the juice in the bottles comes from renowned distillery Heaven Hill, exclusively made for this product, while Rebel Yell’s owner Luxco builds its own facility. It’s silky smooth with just a smidgen of spice, a sipper you can enjoy all night.

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Larceny Bourbon

This six-year-old bourbon hails from Heaven Hill directly, a distillery that was once owned by Pappy Van Winkle himself. Larceny is full of butterscotch and toffee notes, it packs a larger punch than most wheated offerings. This is deep and rich and it’s a perfect second bourbon for any evening.

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Bernheim Original

Since the dominant ingredient in Bernheim is wheat, not corn, this technically can’t be called a bourbon, but this straight wheater is downright delicious. Aged for seven years, this 90-proof whiskey drinks far smoother than you’d think. Soft hints of vanilla and berries linger on your palate after your glass is empty.

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Maker’s Mark Cast Strength

Maker’s Mark has been bottled at cask strength since 2014. The high proof gives it the shot at the same bold flavors you’ll find in the Pappy. This bourbon is packed with bold flavors of stone fruits like cherries, rich vanilla and spicy cinnamon.

 

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  • Phone: 920.923.8160
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