Alright y’all, Nick here—and this time we’re pouring something from Bardstown’s Origin Series that proves bottled-in-bond doesn’t always mean beefy and brawny. This wheated bourbon shows up in a pressed shirt, not a tank top. It’s soft-spoken, well-mannered, and honestly – it’s a damn good houseguest.
The Nose
Walk into a warm bakery and you’ll get the idea. Sweet wheat, a little honey, and a gentle whiff of orange peel. There’s custard, fresh vanilla bean, and soft bread dough rising in the background. Cozy and clean—nothing funky, nothing forced.
The Palate
Right off the bat: caramel drizzle and a big spoonful of vanilla pudding. Then comes the oak—lightly toasted—and a soft pepper that gives just enough pop to keep things interesting. That signature wheated “gumminess” Bardstown’s known for? It’s here, but better integrated than ever. Smooth operator from start to finish.
The Finish
Medium length, creamy all the way through. There’s a warm baked bread note that hangs around, with a dusting of cocoa and maybe—just maybe—a little cinnamon if you’re paying attention. Never sharp, never dry. Just easy.
The Verdict
- Balance & Body: Gentle but structured. No wild edges, just smooth sailing.
- Complexity: Not a puzzle—but not a postcard either. There’s enough going on to keep you sipping.
- Price: Around $50 for a 6-year bottled-in-bond wheated bourbon? Not bad.
The Verdict
This one’s got manners. It doesn’t yell. It doesn’t need to. It just shows up, delivers a rich, reliable pour, and makes you wonder why more bonded bourbons can’t be this graceful. Will it change your life? Probably not. Will you finish the bottle faster than you meant to? Absolutely.
Nick’s Score: 8/10. Easy to love, easy to recommend, and even easier to pour again.
