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Whiskey Review: Bernheim Barrel Proof A223

We review Bernheim Barrel Proof A223, the first 2023 release of this barrel strength wheat whiskey from Heaven Hill.

OVERALL RATING

7
$64.99
  • Moriah Hilden is a whiskey enthusiast and the first American to complete the Whisky Trek in Appenzell.
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Bernheim Barrel Proof Batch B923 review

Tasting Notes

About:

118.8 proof; age is a blend of 7-9 years; mash bill: 51% Winter Wheat + 37% Corn + 12% Malted Barley; price is $64.99.
Appearance:
It is floor length, silky terracotta evening dress that hides the legs. A tinge of blood orange too for a sultry touch.
Nose:
Lemon meringue pie, drizzled in maple syrup for extra sweetness. Alongside the solid dessert, a liquid dessert to accompany it is next. A mug of hot cocoa with milk chocolate, frothed to perfection almond milk, and finished off with cracked black pepper. Sitting awhile longer with it, the sweetness turns to heavily savory. It’s BBQ slab of ribs smothered in Japanese BBQ sauce and a whisper of fig balsamic vinegar.
Palate:
Having tried this in the morning then again, outside during the hottest part of a beautiful sunny day – this is an easy sipper. For 118.8 proof, I’m just as surprised. The wheat is very much apparent, that can be easily pinpointed. But typical, semi dull wheat characteristics are overpowered with lightly toasted French bread smothered in salty Irish butter and accompanied by pan fried brussel sprouts topped with maple bacon bits. Now the mouthfeel is where this baby shines. The juice makes a strong appearance and makes its presence very clear. But as it joins the party down south, the mouth and throat are coated in velvet. My only wish is that the sensation would last longer. It has me reaching for another sip, then another, then also has me questioning myself – Do I actually not like wheat whiskey?
Finish:
Comments:
I’m well versed when it comes to the Heaven Hill line up. Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, Pikesville, Rittenhouse, Larceny and now I can add Bernheim. Like I said multiple times before, I am not a wheat whiskey gal. With that I wasn’t the most enthused to take this review on, but after tasting, diving in depth about the distillery, and trusting that I love the others in the Heaven Hill line up – why wouldn’t I enjoy this one?rnrnBernheim Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is a fabulous bottle to turn to when desiring an approachable barrel strength and to explore how wheat whiskey can shine. With its price point and likely accessibility, this is one I will be keeping an eye out for as future batches are released into the wild.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Moriah Hilden

Moriah Hilden, Vice President of Women Who Whiskey Portland Chapter, holds the distinction of being the first American to complete the Whisky Trek in Appenzell, Switzerland. Her passion for whiskey ignited unexpectedly during a transformative experience in a micro bar nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. This encounter sparked an enduring curiosity for the artistry of whiskey, and the world of spirits continues to captivate her daily. Moriah's enthusiasm drives her to embark on extensive journeys—be it long drives, flights, or hikes—to savor and immerse herself in the diverse offerings of the spirits world.

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