Bourbon comes with expectations, certain grains, certain balance, and certain rules that haven’t changed much in decades. Since 1987, Bulleit Whiskey has built much of its identity and reputation around reviving an old family high-rye bourbon recipe, then occasionally pushing boundaries with bold ideas and flavors. The latest limited release, Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, pushes that approach even further.
The new batch removes rye entirely from the mashbill, replacing it with mesquite wood-smoked malted barley. It’s the first time a Bulleit Bourbon has taken that step, altering the grain recipe while keeping the standard Kentucky Straight Bourbon process intact. Smoked malt is incorporated early in production, during malting, when barley is exposed to mesquite smoke before distillation begins.
The taste profile centers around familiar bourbon flavors, like vanilla, caramelized sugar, and oak, but with earthy smoke running through it. Bottled at 93 proof, it sits right where it's meant to be versatile, whether it be neat, over ice, or paired with food that can hold its own against smoke and sweetness.
To mark the launch, Bulleit hosted a tasting at the Tampa Yacht & Country Club, where the new bourbon was poured alongside BBQ, cocktails, and good conversation. Guests moved between tasting stations and outdoor setups at their own pace. A team from Traeger was also on scene throughout the evening to talk grills and smokers, while Cigar City Brewing was also on hand, adding a local beer option to pair perfectly with the new Mesquite Wood-Smoked Malt.
The night played out like a casual preview of how the whiskey might actually be enjoyed, paired with food, music, and an easygoing crowd instead of a structured tasting. Get your very own bottle of Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by clicking the link below.
