In the heart of Kentucky, where the air smells of charred oak and tradition, Heaven Hill Distillery has crafted a whiskey that’s turning heads and warming hearts. Larceny Barrel Proof A125, the January 2025 release from this storied distillery, has been named America’s best bourbon by the Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest), earning a near-perfect 97/100 score and a coveted Platinum Medal. For those who savor a bold, unfiltered sip of Americana, this wheated bourbon delivers an experience that’s as rich as the Bluegrass State’s rolling hills. Here’s why this bottle is worth seeking out, from its deep roots to its unforgettable finish.
A Legacy in Every Sip
Heaven Hill Distillery, nestled in Bardstown, Kentucky, isn’t just a distillery—it’s a cornerstone of American whiskey-making. As the nation’s largest family-run spirits producer, Heaven Hill carries forward a tradition that stretches back to the legendary Old Fitzgerald mash bill. Larceny Barrel Proof A125 is a proud descendant of this lineage, embodying the craftsmanship that has made Kentucky bourbon a global icon.
This bourbon isn’t a one-off; it’s part of a trio of annual releases in January, May, and September. The A125 batch, with its “A” marking the first release of 2025, “1” for January, and “25” for the year, hit shelves with a suggested retail price of $64—though savvy shoppers might snag it for under $50. At 62.5% ABV (125 proof), it’s bottled straight from the cask, unfiltered and uncut, offering a raw, unadulterated taste of what a barrel can produce. Its mash bill—68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley—earns it the “wheated bourbon” badge, a style known for its smoother, softer profile compared to rye-heavy counterparts. While it carries no official age statement, insiders estimate it spends six to eight years aging in the warm, weathered rickhouses of Kentucky, soaking up character from new, charred oak barrels.
A Feast for the Senses
Pour a dram of Larceny Barrel Proof A125, and the first thing you notice is its striking appearance: a deep amber liquid with a reddish glow, like a sunset over a Kentucky field. This rich hue hints at its time spent in the warmer upper reaches of the rickhouse, where temperature swings coax bold flavors from the wood.
Swirl the glass, and the aromas hit like a warm kitchen on a fall morning. Picture maple-glazed French toast, drizzled with butterscotch and toffee, mingling with the sweet scent of overripe peaches and tropical fruit. There’s a backbone of seasoned oak, grounding the sweetness, and as the bourbon breathes, new layers emerge: the tangy, yeasty scent of unbaked sourdough, a dusting of cornmeal cake, and a spice rack of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The BevTest panel picked up on “Rainier cherry, wood-grilled peach, and caramelized fig,” painting a picture of a bourbon that’s as inviting as it is complex.
Take a sip, and the magic unfolds. At 125 proof, you might expect a fiery kick, but A125 is surprisingly smooth, with a viscous, mouth-coating texture that feels like a warm embrace. The flavor starts sweet, with caramel and brown sugar leading the charge, then weaves in ginger cookies, dried cherries, and roasted nuts—think candied pecans fresh from the oven. Deeper in, you’ll find fig preserves, nougat, and a wisp of cold smoke, balanced by the charred oak’s bold presence. The mid-palate brings a savory twist, with notes of cornbread, sourdough, and baked peach sprinkled with cinnamon, allspice, and a touch of cardamom. A subtle tanginess lingers, keeping things lively.
The finish is where A125 flexes its muscle. It’s long, spicy, and just a bit candied, with cinnamon candy, pink bubblegum, and clove dancing alongside caramel and seasoned oak. Add a few drops of water, and the bourbon transforms, softening the heat and amplifying the sweetness of wood sugars and caramel for an even silkier sip. The BevTest judges called it a “tsunami of flavor,” with notes of “baklava gelato, espresso pecan tart, and buttered broiled peaches,” plus a bold blend of coffee, sherry, and chocolate. It’s a bourbon that demands to be savored neat, though it’s versatile enough to shine in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned.
Why It Stands Out
Larceny Barrel Proof A125 isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a testament to Heaven Hill’s mastery of wheated bourbon. Unlike rye-based bourbons that lean into sharp spice, the 20% wheat in the mash bill gives A125 a softer, rounder profile that still packs a punch at cask strength. Its non-chill filtered, uncut nature lets every nuance of the barrel shine through, from the sweet fruit to the smoky char. For bourbon hunters, this is the real deal: a high-proof, full-flavored whiskey that doesn’t compromise on balance or depth.
At $64 (and often less on sale), A125 is a steal in a world where top-shelf bourbons can cost hundreds. It’s the kind of bottle you can share with friends over a backyard firepit or keep to yourself for quiet evenings with a good cigar. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just dipping your toes into cask-strength territory, this whiskey delivers an experience that’s both approachable and unforgettable.
The Verdict
Larceny Barrel Proof A125 isn’t just America’s best bourbon of 2025—it’s a love letter to Kentucky’s whiskey heritage. From its deep amber glow to its complex, evolving flavors, this bottle captures the spirit of a distillery that knows how to balance tradition with innovation. The BevTest Platinum Medal and 97/100 score are well-earned, reflecting a whiskey that’s bold yet refined, powerful yet smooth. For those who crave a sip of something special, A125 is a must-have. Hunt it down, crack it open, and let it tell its story—one glass at a time.
