Heaven Hill has once again raised the bar for premium American whiskeys with the release of its latest 2025 Heritage Collection offering—a 19-year-old Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey. Known for its classic bourbons like Elijah Craig and Evan Williams, the distillery is now showcasing an ultra-premium, highly allocated expression that diverges from its familiar bourbon lineup. This new release is a standout addition to Heaven Hill’s Heritage Collection, marking a significant milestone as the oldest wheat whiskey the distillery has ever released.
A Unique Mashbill and Extended Aging
Unlike many of Heaven Hill’s products that rely on the tried-and-true bourbon recipes, this special edition whiskey is crafted from a mashbill containing 51% wheat, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley—the very same recipe found in Bernheim Original. The decision to use this wheat-forward mashbill is notable, as it lends a distinctive character to the whiskey. Matured for an impressive 19 years, the spirit has spent nearly two decades developing layers of complexity and depth in Heaven Hill’s famed rickhouse Y, where the barrels were carefully stored on the fifth and sixth floors.
Only 277 barrels, distilled in August and September of 2005, contribute to the final blend of this limited-edition release. With the whiskey bottled at 100 proof, it offers a robust profile while maintaining a smooth balance that whiskey enthusiasts are eager to explore. Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll highlighted the unique nature of the product in a recent news release, noting that the extended aging process combined with this uncommon mashbill creates a depth and complexity rarely seen in wheat whiskeys.
Distinctive Tasting Experience
Early tasting notes describe a layered sensory experience that begins with aromas of oak, honey, and a hint of clove. On the palate, drinkers can expect the familiar warmth of oak complemented by baking spices and a nuance reminiscent of cinnamon graham crackers. The finish is long and inviting, with a warm, maple-infused quality that ties the whole experience together. These carefully balanced flavors reflect the attention to detail and commitment to quality that Heaven Hill is renowned for.
Heritage and Craftsmanship
This release continues a long-standing tradition at Heaven Hill. Since its founding in 1935, the distillery has celebrated its history and mastery through unique, annual releases. The Heritage Collection, which follows in the footsteps of the earlier Parker’s Heritage Collection named in honor of the late master distiller Parker Beam, focuses on showcasing one of Heaven Hill’s six traditional American whiskey mashbills. By concentrating on extended aging and eliminating secondary maturation, the collection offers whiskey fans a rare glimpse into the spirit’s evolution over decades.
Each annual release in the Heritage Collection is presented in a special box decorated in Heaven Hill’s signature blue. The packaging is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it provides detailed information about the production date, mashbill percentages, and the specific warehouse location (rickhouse Y) where the barrels were aged. This level of transparency not only celebrates the craft behind each bottle but also appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who value the storied details of American whiskey production.
Market Availability and Collectability
Set with a suggested retail price of $299.99, the 2025 Heritage Collection 19-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is expected to be highly sought after by collectors and whiskey aficionados alike. Given its limited release, the bottle will likely command a higher price on the secondary market once it becomes available. Orders are set to begin shipping nationally and internationally in early March 2025, and many whiskey enthusiasts are already keeping a close eye on ReserveBar and other premium spirit websites for availability.
A Testament to Patience and Quality
The release of this nearly two-decade-old wheat whiskey is a clear demonstration of Heaven Hill’s commitment to innovation and tradition. By pushing the boundaries of what is typically expected from a wheat whiskey, the distillery is proving that craftsmanship and patience pay off. The product stands as a tribute to years of expertise and a deep respect for the heritage of American whiskey. Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll’s comments about the exceptional depth and complexity of the 19-year-old wheat whiskey underscore the belief that great whiskey cannot be rushed—it must be given time to develop its full character.
Final Thoughts
In an industry where bourbon often steals the spotlight, Heaven Hill’s latest release of a 19-year-old Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey offers a refreshing alternative. With its unique mashbill, extensive aging process, and detailed craftsmanship, this release is set to be a highlight in the 2025 Heritage Collection. As whiskey enthusiasts eagerly await its national and international launch in March 2025, Heaven Hill once again cements its reputation for producing some of the most memorable and high-quality whiskeys in America. This release is more than just a new product—it is a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of American whiskey.
