Wilderness Trail Yellow Label Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Blazing a trail of its own, Wilderness Trail Yellow Label Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, stands as the distillery’s flagship expression and a benchmark for modern American whiskey. Crafted using a high percentage of “middle grains” and less corn, this bottled-in-bond release showcases a refined, complex profile built on a sweet mash foundation, a revival of tradition executed with bold innovation. As the first bottled-in-bond wheated sweet mash bourbon released in Kentucky since Prohibition, this spirit defines Wilderness Trail’s mission to disrupt and elevate the world of whiskey.

Product Details:

• Style: Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey
• ABV: 50% (100 Proof)
• Mash Bill: Wheated sweet mash with reduced corn and increased middle grains
• Color: Rich, unfiltered deep amber
• Nose: Sweet vanilla and charred oak
• Palate: Silky notes of caramel and vanilla unfold into oak, cinnamon, and blood orange
• Finish: Long and sweet, with lingering oak spice, toffee, and dark fruits
• Aging: Minimum 5 years

Sensory Description:

This bourbon pours a rich, unfiltered deep amber in the glass. The nose opens with layers of sweet vanilla, beeswax, and charred oak, followed by hints of pumpernickel bread, cherry cobbler, and orange blossom. On the palate, a full and silky mouthfeel delivers notes of caramel and vanilla, progressing into cinnamon, blood orange, and roasted pecans. The finish is long and luxurious, unfolding with warm oak spices, toffee, dark fruits, and a lasting echo of dark chocolate and French toast.

Awards & Accolades:

• Double Gold – TAG Global Spirits Awards, 2024
• Double Platinum – ASCOT Awards, 2023
• Platinum – ASCOT Awards, 2023
  “Milk chocolate covered cherries in a glass with some roasted almonds. Lovely.”
• Great Value – Ultimate Beverage Challenge, 2023
  “Refined floral aromas mingle with nuanced tropical notes of mango and dried coconut. Golden raisins, lychee, and breadiness on the palate, with a long captivating finish.”
• Double Gold – New York International Spirits Competition, 2023
• Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2023
• Critic's Pick – Whisky Advocate
  “Dill, tarragon, spearmint, iced tea, cured tobacco leaf, and roasted nuts lead a textured profile of red apple, black cherry, and lemonade. Balanced and layered with a lush, chocolatey finish.”

Distiller's Background:

Founded by fermentation experts Shane Baker and Dr. Pat Heist in Danville, Kentucky, the “City of Firsts”, Wilderness Trail Distillery has challenged tradition since its inception in 2012. What began as a dream between a rock band duo turned science-savvy business partners grew into one of the most acclaimed craft whiskey producers in America. The distillery earned recognition as Kentucky Manufacturer of the Year in 2016 and became the 18th official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in 2020. Today, Wilderness Trail is home to over 100,000 barrels and continues to lead with innovation while honoring the time-honored roots of bourbon-making.

Serving Suggestions:

This wheated bourbon shines when sipped neat or served over a large ice cube in a classic whiskey glass. A few drops of water can reveal hidden layers of tropical fruit, spice, and toasted sweetness. Ideal for quiet evenings, celebratory toasts, or adventurous cocktails.

This is a bold yet elegant whiskey that delivers deep complexity and a palate-coating richness. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or a curious newcomer, Wilderness Trail Yellow Label Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey promises a rewarding pour that defines modern craftsmanship.