A little background
Bernheim Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is a full-strength, non–chill-filtered expression of Heaven Hill’s signature wheat whiskey. Produced at the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, it uses a wheat-forward mash bill of 51% wheat, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley, making Bernheim the first wheat whiskey to feature winter wheat as its primary grain. Each batch is aged seven to nine years in open-air rickhouses and bottled at its natural barrel proof to showcase the whiskey in its purest form.
Released in twice-yearly batches, each edition carries its own unique proof and batch designation. Bernheim Barrel Proof Batch A225 is bottled at 125.4 proof (62.7% ABV) and has a suggested retail price of $64.99. As with all Heaven Hill whiskeys, it reflects the distillery’s long-standing commitment to quality, traditional production methods, and extensive aging inventory throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties.
(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)
Color
Gold
Nose
Vanilla, baked brown bread, caramel, cinnamon, butterscotch, and citrus
Palate
Toffee, cinnamon, vanilla, dark baking chocolate, and oak.
Finish
Caramel, toffee, dark chocolate, leather, and dry oak.
In closing
Overall, Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheat Whiskey Batch A225 delivers a full-bodied and dessert-leaning profile that highlights the strengths of Heaven Hill’s wheat mashbill at barrel strength. Its rich nose and oily palate bring together layers of vanilla, caramel, toffee, cinnamon, and dark chocolate, while the finish adds depth with leather and dry oak. The approachable pricing, distinctive wheat character, and generally solid availability make it an appealing option for enthusiasts seeking a bold yet balanced barrel-proof pour. While the heat and slight dryness may limit its appeal for some, Batch A225 still offers an enjoyable combination of flavor, value, and character that stands out within the wheated whiskey category.
The sample used for this review was provided to us by Heaven Hill Distillery at no charge with no strings attached.
Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheated Whiskey Batch A225
The Good
- Rich nose
- Great value
The Bad
- Could drink hot for some
