The 4th of July is now in our rearview, but that’s no reason to stop appreciating one of America’s greatest contributions to global civilization: bourbon whiskey.
Adding to that storied legacy is Redemption’s Wheated Bourbon. This new limited-edition offering is notable for its mash bill, which contains a whopping 45% winter wheat (the remainder is 51% corn and 4% malted barley). The spirit is aged for four years in new oak barrels before bottling. It is a light amber in color, and its nose is sweet with notes of caramel, candied plums and cherry.
So it’s a great surprise that the spirit, while soft and warm on the tongue, contains little of the sweetness you’d expect from its nose and general profile. You’re instead met with notes of dark roasted coffee, followed by earthy rosemary. From there, the flavor develops into a smoky, salty profile reminiscent of cured meats, ending with a little dance of pepper on the tongue. The end effect may remind you of tearing off a piece of excellent beef jerky, if that jerky was somehow accompanied by a warm, silky mouthfeel.
Redemption Wheated Bourbon is an exceptional whiskey that almost feels more like a scotch than a bourbon. Try showing it to anyone who decries bourbon because of the category’s typical sweetness, and you just might find a new convert.
Stats:
— 48% ABV
— $45.99
CE Rating: ★★★★
