Alright folks, let’s talk about a bottle that kinda flew under the radar — the Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bourbon. You may know Holladay from their bottled-in-bond offering, but this wheated version? It’s got something different going on, and I gotta say… I’m into it.
The Mash & Background
This one’s a wheated bourbon, which means instead of rye as the secondary grain, they’re using soft red winter wheat. That tends to smooth things out, mellow the spice, and bring forward a whole different kind of sweetness. We’re still talking bottled-in-bond here — so 100 proof, at least 4 years old, and made by one distiller in one season.
Right off the bat, big props to Holladay for transparency and tradition. There’s a lot of respect for heritage in how they do things, and you can taste it in the glass.
The Nose
First thing that hit me? Butterscotch. Rich, sweet, and a little toasted — it’s like someone melted down a Werther’s Original and drizzled it over vanilla bean ice cream. There’s also a little oak in there, maybe some baked apple, and a soft graininess that reminds you this isn’t some overly polished, mass-produced pour.
The Palate
The sip confirms what the nose promised. That soft red wheat gives it a rounded mouthfeel — think creamy but not too thick. The butterscotch rolls right in, followed by toasted marshmallow, a little nuttiness, and a touch of baking spice that sneaks in toward the end. It’s got layers, but it’s easygoing. The 100 proof is spot-on — it gives you structure without knocking you out.
The Finish
Medium to long. You’re left with a warm trail of oak, toffee, and just a flicker of spice at the back of the throat. It’s one of those finishes where you take a second and think, “I could go for another sip of that.” And then… you do.
Final Thoughts
Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat isn’t trying to be the loudest bourbon in the room — it’s just smooth, flavorful, and damn satisfying. If you’re a fan of Maker’s Mark or Weller but want to try something that brings its own identity to the table, this is a bottle worth hunting down.
For around $50–60, this is a great wheated bourbon that punches above its weight. Whether you’re a wheat whiskey fan or just bourbon curious, this bottle earns its spot on the shelf.
Nick’s Score: 8.3/10
It’s well-made, accessible, and a great step forward for Holladay’s expanding lineup.
