Bernheim Original 7 Year Old Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey

Prohibition annihilated American distilling creativity for decades. Heaven Hill successfully resurrected genuine innovation by releasing Bernheim Original. Utilizing a mashbill heavily dominated by soft winter wheat, this pioneering spirit deliberately eschews the aggressive spice typically associated with traditional rye grains. I absolutely cherish this defiant departure from predictable corn-heavy profiles. It's a phenomenally rewarding pour.

Maturation dramatically alters the underlying DNA of this unique grain. Seven sweltering summers inside open-air Kentucky rickhouses force the liquid to violently extract profoundly rich vanilla and caramelized sugars from the charred oak staves. The transformation feels entirely complete. Bottled at an approachable 90 proof, the velvety liquid coats your palate without inflicting any abrasive, overwhelming ethanol burn. This accessible heat elegantly elevates the nuanced orchard fruit notes.

Mainstream bourbon enthusiasts frequently overlook this exceptionally polished, affordable masterpiece. Securing a deeply mature, age-stated whiskey with such idiosyncratic elegance currently requires immense effort in today's insanely crowded retail landscape. You simply must taste this. The delicate, honeyed viscosity provides an absolutely brilliant foundation for sophisticated cocktail construction or contemplative neat pouring. You shouldn't make the devastating mistake of ignoring this pioneer.

93 points and 'Top 50 Spirits 2011,' Wine Enthusiast: "45% abv. This small-batch whiskey, with its bright copper penny color and bewitchingly sweet aromas of cocoa, mocha and fresh-baked cookies, is one of the few 'straight wheat' whiskeys out there. The flavors are brisk and restrained, with leather and tobacco tones and a clean citrus and vanilla finish. Despite a relatively high proof, it still comes across as mellow and balanced. Drink straight up, with ice. (Mar 2011)"  Wine Searcher: "(style: smooth) A sweet and easy nose floats brittle sweet mint candy to you. The mint smoothes the burn as the candy dissolves, and you may catch a hint of corn as the long glide of the finish starts. The wheat preponderance makes this one quite gentle and approachable. 90 proof. (1/31/12)"