Bernheim Original 20th Anniversary 10 Year Cask Strength Wheat Whiskey

Bernheim Original20th Anniversary 10 Year Cask Strength Wheat Whiskey is a milestone release that elevates one of the most important—and often overlooked—categories in American whiskey. Aged a full 10 years and bottled at a powerful 115 proof, it delivers a rare combination of soft wheat-driven richness and high-proof intensity. This is not just a commemorative bottle—it’s arguably the most complete expression of Bernheim’s style to date, offering depth, elegance, and serious enthusiast appeal.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Kentucky, this release celebrates 20 years of Bernheim Wheat Whiskey, a category-defining spirit first introduced in 2005 as the first new American whiskey style since Prohibition.

Unlike bourbon, Bernheim is a true wheat whiskey, built on a mash bill where wheat is the dominant grain (51%), supported by corn and malted barley.

Key production elements:

• Mash Bill: 51% wheat, 37% corn, 12% malted barley
• Age: 10 years (a significant step up from standard Bernheim)
• Proof: 115 (57.5% ABV), bottled at cask strength
• Style: Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey (not a wheated bourbon)
• Release: Limited small batch commemorating the brand’s 20th anniversary

The extended aging brings a level of oak integration and depth rarely seen in wheat whiskey, while the cask strength bottling preserves intensity and texture.

Critics Reviews

There are no widely published formal critic scores yet (very recent release), but early expert and enthusiast reactions have been extremely strong.

Reviewers highlight:

• A “broader and deeper barrel influence” compared to previous Bernheim releases
• A profile that is “sweet, nutty, and almost creamy” despite the high proof
• Notable refinement, with oak presence but no harsh tannin bite

This positions it as one of the most compelling wheat whiskey releases in recent years.

Tasting Profile

Nose
Cinnamon, baking spice, vanilla, toasted oak, and soft honeyed sweetness.

Palate
Rich and layered with molasses, butterscotch, baked apple, caramel, and warm spice.

Finish
Long and warming with peppery spice, oak, and lingering sweetness.

Quick Overview

Recommended Service

Serving:
Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water—this opens up the sweetness and softens the proof.

Glassware:
A Glencairn or wine glass helps showcase the creamy, aromatic profile.