Bernheim Barrel Proof Batch B923 landed on my desk at 60.3%ABV); $64, carrying a $64.99 price tag. Here is what I found.
Nose
Fruitier than a bourbon, with pear, green apple, and cherries gracing the nose. Of course, cinnamon, anise, and cedar are present.
Finish
A very sweet dram with honey and toasted biscuits kicking off the start. Nutmeg and cloves enter a la the charred American Oak barrel. The finish is very smooth with floral orange blossom and a slightly less heavy sandalwood. It walks like a bourbon, it talks like a bourbon, but its . A wheat whiskey? Not having tried their standard expression, I was taken aback at the similarities it has with most wheated bourbons Ive had. Yet, Bernheim Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey finds a way to stand clear from the masses with some extra honey and cereal notes and a fantastically light finish, with the high proof being barely noticeable.rnrnIf youre looking for something new this holiday season, this should be on your Christmas list.
The Bottom Line
Bernheim Barrel Proof Batch B923 delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $64.99 represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
