Introduction
In this review, we’re revisiting Bardstown Bourbon Company with their latest addition to the Origin Series: High Wheat Bourbon Whiskey. This release is part of Bardstown’s permanent lineup and is designed to welcome enthusiasts into the Bardstown portfolio. The High Wheat Bourbon features a mash bill of 53% corn, 39% wheat, and 8% malted barley, aged for six years and bottled at 106 proof. Priced at $49, it offers a promising balance of flavor and value. Let's see how it stands up to the Film & Whiskey test.
This review is taken from our episode "The Movie Candy Draft." Click the link to listen to this review (along with special guest David Thomas Tao).
Nose
Brad: First off, I'm picking up the fact that Bardstown can do no wrong in my eyes. They make incredible whiskey. On the nose, this one is a little spicy. I'm getting some nutmeg, cinnamon, and maybe even a hint of Christmas spices. There’s also a rich, dark cherry note that stands out.
Bob: Yeah, I’m with you on the Christmas spices. This reminds me of those old-school English Christmas treats that have been around for centuries—tons of dark spices and a bit of raisin. I also get a lot of black pepper, which is usually a note I associate with rye, so it's surprising to find it here. The nose is complex and really draws you in.
Nose Score:
- Brad: 8/10
- Bob: 8/10
Taste
Brad: This is so good. All the notes from the nose carry through on the palate with a foundation of caramel, almost like caramelized toffee. There’s also a bit of nuttiness, and the spice is front and center, but balanced by a rich sweetness. I love it.
Bob: I’m getting a lot of those Christmas spices again, but the palate also brings out a grassy, earthy note that I didn’t expect. It’s a little more herbaceous than I anticipated, and the cherry is there, but it’s not the sweet cherry you’d expect from a typical weeded bourbon. It’s more like a tart, freshly squeezed cherry juice.
Taste Score:
- Brad: 8.5/10
- Bob: 8/10
Finish
Brad: The finish is long and lingering with a nice warmth that doesn’t overpower. The spices stick around, and there’s a subtle sweetness that makes you want to take another sip.
Bob: It has a creamy finish that keeps rolling back up the palate. It’s surprisingly spicy for a 106-proof bourbon, which I appreciate. The earthiness from the palate fades away, leaving behind a sweet and spicy finish that’s really satisfying.
Finish Score:
- Brad: 8/10
- Bob: 7.5/10
Value
Brad: This whiskey is priced at $49, and for that, it’s an absolute steal. Bardstown is known for producing higher-end bottles, but this one is accessible without compromising on quality.
Bob: I agree. At $49, this is a huge value. Bardstown didn’t cut any corners—they’ve delivered a robust, flavorful bourbon at an entry-level price. It’s hard to find anything to complain about here.
Value Score:
- Brad: 9.5/10
- Bob: 9/10
Final Scores
- Brad: 42.5/50
- Bob: 40.5/50
Conclusion
The Bardstown Bourbon Company Origin Series: High Wheat Bourbon Whiskey has earned its place as a strong contender in the bourbon world. With final scores of 40.5/50 and 42.5/50, this bottle delivers exceptional value at just $49. Its robust flavors, combined with the 106 proof, make it a must-try for any bourbon lover. If you’re considering adding a new bottle to your collection or looking for a great value bourbon, this one should be high on your list.
For context, a score of 35/50 is where we typically recommend trying a pour at a bar or buying a bottle, while a 40/50 is considered great, and 45/50 is excellent. This bourbon clearly falls into the "great" category, making it well worth adding to your shelf.
Cheers!
