Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bourbon
A Stumble Down History Lane
Alright, folks, let's kick this off with a bit of history because we all need some context before we dive into the good stuff. Ben Holladay Distillery, nestled in the heartland of Missouri, has roots dating back to 1856. Yep, this bourbon's lineage stretches further than your grandpa's stories about walking ten miles to school uphill both ways…in the snow. In 1856, brothers Ben and David Holladay began distilling bourbon under the name Blue Springs Distillery on their property in Weston, Missouri. This site, rich in history, features limestone springs discovered by Lewis and Clark in 1804. Originally from Kentucky, Ben bought the land in 1849, and the high-quality springs became integral to their bourbon production. Though Prohibition forced the distillery to cease regular operations, it continued to produce medicinal bourbon. After a long hiatus, the distillery made a notable comeback in 2015, releasing its first bourbon in over three decades.
Certified Missouri Bourbon?
One of the more exciting facts about Holladay Bourbon and whiskey making in Missouri is that, under a 2019 law, this whiskey qualifies as a Real Missouri Bourbon. This designation means it adheres to federal bourbon standards and must be mashed, fermented, distilled, aged, and bottled in Missouri. Additionally, it must be aged in oak barrels made within the state, and starting from January 1, 2020, it must be produced using only corn grown in Missouri. That’s the real deal!
First Impressions: The Look and the Label
Alright, let's be honest here. When I saw the bottle, I thought, "Classy, but also a bit like something my great-aunt might use to spice up her fruitcake." The label is old-school charming, giving off serious vibes that scream, "I'm historical, and you should respect me." It's like the bourbon equivalent of wearing a bow tie to a barbecue—bold and maybe a bit pretentious, but you can't help but be impressed.
The Nose Knows: Smelling the Spirit
It's time to crack this baby open. First whiff and I’m hit with an aroma that’s as comforting as grandma’s kitchen on a Sunday afternoon. Notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice—like someone made a candle from a Thanksgiving dessert. I also got a whiff of something floral, but let’s not get too carried away. It smells like what I imagine a cozy fireside chat would feel warm, inviting, and just a little intoxicating.
Sip, Sip, Hooray: Tasting the Magic
Now for the moment of truth. My first sip was...wow. Smooth is an understatement. It's like silk pajamas for your taste buds. The soft red wheat gives it a mellow sweetness, with hints of honey and baked bread. It’s got a bit of spice on the back end—enough to remind you that you’re drinking bourbon and not some fancy dessert wine. There’s a whisper of oak in there, too, like it’s subtly reminding you of its heritage. I might not be a bourbon connoisseur, but even I can tell this is something special.
The Finish Line: Wrapping Up the Experience
The finish is long and warm, like that lingering goodbye hug from someone you wish you’d spent more time with. It leaves a gentle burn that’s more of a friendly nudge than a harsh slap. This bourbon doesn’t rush you out the door; it hangs around, making sure you remember it fondly.
Final Thoughts: Should You Give It a Shot?
Absolutely!!! Ben Holladay's Soft Red Wheat Bottled in Bond is like meeting someone at a party who looks sophisticated and turns out to be genuinely interesting and nice. It’s approachable for newbies like me but has enough complexity to keep the bourbon buffs happy. If you're looking for something that balances history, flavor, and a touch of elegance, give this one a shot. Or two. Or, you know, just don’t count.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 100 • Mashbill: 73% Corn • 15% Wheat • 12% Barley • Aged: 4yrs (at least) • Price: $60
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 4 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 5 • Uniqueness: 4 • Value: 5 • Overall: 4.4
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. 