Old Elk Straight Wheated Bourbon

A little background

Sometimes a distillery comes along and makes waves based solely on the reputation of the people behind the brand. That is the case with Old Elk out of Fort Collins, CO which has one of the most experienced Master Distillers in the American Whiskey world, Greg Metze of LDI and MGP fame. This particular bottle is the company’s Straight Wheated Bourbon that is sourced from an undisclosed producer in Indiana and has a mash bill of 51% Corn, 45% Wheat, and 5% Malted Barley. Old Elk Straight Wheated Bourbon is aged five years, bottled at 92 Proof, and has a retail price of around $70 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Dulce de leche, golden raisins, nutmeg, and vanilla. A very sweet caramel filled nose.

Palate

Cocoa, pancake syrup, caramel, baking spice, and sweet vanilla.

Finish

Sweet tea, chocolate fudge, caramel, and orange taffy.

In closing

Although not the most complex whiskey, Old Elk Straight Wheated Bourbon has a beautiful flavor profile and wonderful viscous mouthfeel. There’s a decadent caramel, chocolate, and sweet syrup quality throughout. I found this bourbon to drink quite nice at 92 proof, however, I’d shy away from adding any water or ice to this whiskey, as I’d hate to lose any of the beautiful qualities by watering it down. Overall Old Elk Straight Wheated Bourbon is a caramel bomb and one I’d absolutely recommend giving a try.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Old Elk Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.