Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat Blend Whiskey

Overview
Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat Blend Whiskey showcases a unique profile among wheated bourbons, crafted in Weston, Missouri, at a distillery with a rich history dating back to 1857. This whiskey stands out for its distinctive use of soft red winter wheat, which imparts a creamy mouthfeel and a surprising depth of flavor.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
The distillery, originally founded by Ben Holladay, has a storied past that includes being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. After a significant renovation in 2015, it resumed production, emphasizing local ingredients and traditional methods, making it a notable player in the craft bourbon renaissance.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Aromas of baked apples, cinnamon, and charred brown sugar greet you, with hints of vanilla and dark chocolate.
• Palate: Rich brown sugar and dark chocolate flavors dominate, complemented by sourdough bread and cedar chips. This combination provides a hearty mouthfeel that is both creamy and substantial.
• Finish: The finish carries notes of bitter charring, vanilla, and a mild dryness, leaving a lingering impression.

Notable details

• Production: Aged in new charred oak, this whiskey is bottled at 100 proof, meeting the bottled-in-bond criteria.
• Lineage: Hailing from a distillery with over a century of history, it marks a significant revival of craft bourbon in Missouri.
• Comparison: Often compared to established wheated bourbons like Maker's Mark and Larceny, this expression brings a more rugged character that might appeal to those seeking boldness over smoothness.
• Availability: Priced around $60, it remains accessible without significant allocation challenges, making it a solid choice for cocktail enthusiasts.

Serving suggestions
Best enjoyed in an Old Fashioned where its bold flavors shine, though it may underperform in lighter cocktails like the Moscow Mule due to its assertive profile.

“While it shines in balanced Old Fashioned cocktails, its straightforward profile lacks complexity for neat sipping.” – Thirty-One Whiskey

Closing
This whiskey is a testament to the potential of Missouri's bourbon scene, offering a robust and memorable experience for both cocktail lovers and bourbon enthusiasts alike.

Sources
[1] Thirty-One Whiskey – “Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon”, Sep 2023
[2] Bourbon Culture – “Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat Rickhouse Proof Missouri Straight Bourbon Review”, N/A
[3] Breaking Bourbon – “Ben Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled in Bond Bourbon Review”, N/A
[4] Drinkhacker – “Review: Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon”, Sep 2023
[5] Breaking Bourbon – “Holladay Soft Red Wheat Rickhouse Proof Bourbon (Oct 2024 Batch) Review”, N/A