History

Bernheim Wheat Whiskey represents one of the most distinctive and underrated styles in American whiskey. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, Bernheim is named after the historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, which was originally built in 1872 by the Bernheim brothers, pioneering Jewish whiskey entrepreneurs in Kentucky.

Following Prohibition and decades of industry consolidation, the Bernheim site eventually became part of Heaven Hill’s operations. In 2005, Heaven Hill introduced Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey, reviving a historic whiskey style that had nearly disappeared from the American market.

Today, Bernheim stands as the first widely distributed straight wheat whiskey in the United States, offering a softer, sweeter alternative to rye-forward bourbons.

Distilling Process

Unlike bourbon, which must contain at least 51% corn, Bernheim Wheat Whiskey is made from a mash bill with at least 51% wheat. This creates a distinctly smooth and gentle whiskey profile.

The mash typically consists of:

• 51% wheat

• 37% corn

• 12% malted barley

After fermentation, the whiskey is distilled and aged in new charred American oak barrels for several years in Heaven Hill’s Kentucky rickhouses, developing notes of vanilla, honey, and toasted grain.

What Makes Bernheim Unique and Revered

Bernheim stands apart as the flagship expression of American wheat whiskey, a category that remains relatively rare. Wheat as the dominant grain produces a whiskey that is:

• Softer and rounder than rye-based bourbons

• Gently sweet with bakery-style flavours

• Smooth and approachable

• Perfect for sipping or cocktails

For bourbon lovers accustomed to high-rye mash bills, Bernheim offers a fascinating alternative — a whiskey defined by elegance, sweetness, and balance.

Master Distiller & Team

Bernheim is crafted under the guidance of Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll and the expert production team at Heaven Hill Distillery, one of the most respected independent whiskey producers in America.

Their dedication to traditional methods, careful aging, and consistent quality ensures Bernheim continues to represent the benchmark for wheat whiskey in the United States.

Visitor Experience

Bernheim Wheat Whiskey is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Visitors can experience the full Heaven Hill story at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, which offers immersive exhibits, tastings, and guided tours exploring bourbon and American whiskey heritage.

Special tastings often include Bernheim alongside Heaven Hill’s broader whiskey portfolio.

Signature Whiskeys

• Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey – smooth, honeyed, and gently sweet with vanilla and soft spice.

• Bernheim Barrel Proof Series – limited releases bottled at full strength, delivering deeper flavour and complexity.

Awards & Recognition

Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition
 Best American Wheat Whiskey – American Whiskey Masters
Highly Recommended – Ultimate Spirits Challenge

Bernheim has become the benchmark expression for the wheat whiskey category.

For the Bourbon Brothers Collection

Bernheim offers something truly different for American whiskey lovers — a beautifully smooth, wheat-forward whiskey that highlights the softer side of Kentucky distilling. Perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore beyond traditional bourbon mash bills.

→ [Shop Bernheim Wheat Whiskey at Bourbon Brothers]