Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated, 100 Proof, $88.00
Wilderness Trail Distillery has carved out a respected niche in the bourbon industry, known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality. Their 8 Year Wheated Bourbon, bottled at 100 proof and priced at $88, is a testament to this dedication. This review will explore both the history of the distillery and a detailed examination of this particular bourbon, offering insights into its creation, flavor profile, and overall value.
History of Wilderness Trail Distillery
Founded in 2012 by Shane Baker and Dr. Pat Heist, Wilderness Trail Distillery is located in Danville, Kentucky. The distillery’s inception was driven by a desire to blend traditional bourbon-making techniques with modern science. Baker and Heist, both with backgrounds in microbiology and fermentation, utilized their expertise to create a unique approach to bourbon production.
Wilderness Trail quickly gained recognition for its innovative methods, including the use of sweet mash fermentation rather than the more common sour mash. This technique involves using fresh ingredients for each batch, resulting in a cleaner, more vibrant flavor. Additionally, the distillery emphasizes high-quality grains, sourced locally, and adheres to a philosophy of low-barrel entry proof, which allows the bourbon to age more gracefully.
The 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is part of Wilderness Trail’s commitment to producing age-stated bourbons. It showcases their dedication to patience and precision, offering a mature and nuanced spirit that reflects the distillery’s expertise and passion.
Packaging and Presentation
The Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon comes in a sturdy, aesthetically pleasing bottle that exudes quality. The clear glass showcases the rich, amber color of the bourbon, hinting at the depth and complexity within. The label design is clean and elegant, featuring the distillery’s logo and essential details about the bourbon, including its age, proof, and batch number. The natural cork stopper adds a touch of tradition, sealing the bottle with a reassuring weight. Overall, the presentation is both modern and classic, setting the stage for the bourbon’s unveiling.
Aroma
The first encounter with Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is through its enticing aroma. Pouring a glass releases a complex bouquet of scents that immediately captivates the senses. The nose is greeted with a rich blend of caramel and vanilla, providing a warm and inviting sweetness. This initial sweetness is complemented by notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and dried fruits such as figs and raisins. Subtle hints of oak, cinnamon, and a touch of spice add depth and complexity, creating a harmonious and well-balanced aroma. The wheat in the mash bill softens the overall profile, resulting in a smooth, approachable scent that hints at the bourbon’s underlying complexity.
Palate
The first sip of Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon reveals a full-bodied and robust flavor profile that is both intense and nuanced. The bourbon is rich and viscous, coating the palate with a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Sweetness: The initial impression is one of luscious sweetness, with flavors of caramel, toffee, and honey taking center stage. This sweetness is enhanced by notes of dark chocolate and dried fruit, adding a fruity complexity that elevates the overall profile.
- Spice and Oak: Mid-palate, the spice becomes more pronounced, with prominent notes of cinnamon, clove, and black pepper. This spiciness adds a dynamic and invigorating element, balancing the initial sweetness and contributing to the bourbon’s depth. The oak influence is evident, imparting notes of toasted wood, vanilla, and a slight smokiness.
- Wheat: The wheat in the mash bill adds a layer of softness and smoothness, creating a velvety texture that mellows the overall profile. This results in a bourbon that is both rich and approachable, with a complexity that invites exploration.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel of Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is one of its most impressive attributes. The bourbon’s high proof imparts a warm, almost fiery sensation that is both invigorating and comforting. Despite its strength, the bourbon remains remarkably smooth, with a velvety texture that enhances the overall drinking experience. The viscosity is perfect, providing a rich and satisfying mouthfeel that lingers long after the last sip.
Finish
The finish of Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is long, evolving, and deeply satisfying. The initial sweetness gradually gives way to a lingering spiciness, with the oak providing a sturdy backbone throughout. Subtle hints of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and dried fruit emerge towards the end, adding an additional layer of complexity. The finish is warm and persistent, leaving a lasting impression that invites you to take another sip.
Versatility
While Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is undoubtedly a bourbon to be savored neat or with a splash of water, it also holds up remarkably well in cocktails. Its robust flavor profile and high proof make it an excellent base for classic bourbon cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. However, given its quality and complexity, many enthusiasts may prefer to enjoy it on its own to fully appreciate its nuances.
Value for Money
Priced at $88, Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon offers excellent value for money. The depth and complexity of the bourbon, combined with the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation, justify the investment. It is a bourbon that can be enjoyed on special occasions, savored slowly to appreciate every nuance, making it a worthy addition to any whiskey collection.
Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is a stellar example of what a high-quality bourbon should be. It combines a rich history with modern craftsmanship, resulting in a product that is both classic and innovative. From its inviting aroma to its complex flavor profile and long, satisfying finish, it delivers on every front. The high proof is expertly balanced, providing a warming sensation that enhances the overall experience without overwhelming the palate.
For connoisseurs and serious bourbon enthusiasts, Wilderness Trail 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is a must-have. It stands as a testament to the distillery’s commitment to excellence and their ability to produce world-class bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in a carefully crafted cocktail, it is sure to provide a memorable drinking experience. This bourbon is a true gem, offering a rich and rewarding journey through every sip.
