Bernheim Barrel Proof Original Wheat Whiskey Batch A225 Review: The Wheat Bomb Returns
I keep harping on the Bernheim Barrel Proof A release from 2024, but it really did stand out to me in a short-lived series that, while consistently good, hasn't produced many very memorable expressions. This latest release, however, is nipping at its heels.
Bold, buttery, and barrel-proof. Batch A225 delivers a spicy, vanilla-rich experience that’s worth the hunt for wheat whiskey fans.
BOTTLE DETAILS
- DISTILLER: Heaven Hill Distillery
- MASH BILL: 51% Wheat | 37% Corn | 12% Malted Barley
- AGE: NAS - Non-age stated, reportedly 7-9 years
- YEAR: 2025
- PROOF: 125.4 (62.7% ABV)
- MSRP: $65
DREW'S NOTES
SHARE WITH: The wheat-lovers in your life. Wheated bourbon fans. Anyone who has never experienced the magic of a wheat whiskey.
WORTH THE PRICE: Yes. Like the rest of Heaven Hill's barrel-proof offerings, this is a solid value.
BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bottle. This latest release is almost on par with last year's A release, which was one of my favorite Bernheim's yet. It's an easy recommendation, especially for those who don't yet have a wheat whiskey in the cupboard at home.
OVERALL: I keep harping on the Bernheim Barrel Proof A release from 2024, but it really did stand out to me in a short-lived series that, while consistently good, hasn't produced many very memorable expressions. This latest release, however, is nipping at its heels.
The nose is rich and bold with dark, sticky vanilla bean, warm brown bread, and caramelized sugar. It's not an overly complex aroma - they never really are with wheat whiskeys - but the depth is impressive and enticing, nevertheless. As it opens, undertones of stewed apple and lemon peel emerge.
The palate is oily and big with a peppery warmth, a bit hotter than previous releases but still approachable and soothing. Top notes of syrupy butterscotch, toffee, and chewy caramel give way to a complement of energetic barrel spice -cinnamon sugar and allspice - before mellowing into candy apple, gently tannic oak, and clove chewing gum on a long, warming finish.
BRAND NOTES
This extension to the Bernheim brand means you can now enjoy a premium Wheat Whiskey at full barrel proof. Like the original, Bernheim Barrel Proof is produced at the Bernheim Distillery and is the first wheat whiskey to use winter wheat as its primary grain, giving it a soft, sweet flavor that’s extra smooth. Released twice a year, each offering is aged for seven to nine years in our open-air rickhouses. This is a chance to experience our unique wheat mashbill in its pure form: non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Mahogany
- Aroma: Oak staves and fresh bread
- Taste: Buttery notes of caramel and honey with clove spice
- Finish: Soft and complex; notes of honey and caramel
Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.