In the heart of Manhattan, where skyscrapers tower and history runs deep, Great Jones Distilling Co. has brought whiskey-making back to the Big Apple with a bold new release. Their latest offering, a wheated bourbon, hit shelves on June 9, 2025, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons. This isn’t just another bourbon—it’s a love letter to New York, crafted with local pride and a nod to the state’s rich agricultural roots. With a price tag of $44.99, it’s a steal for a spirit that’s 100% New York from grain to glass.
Great Jones Distilling Co. is no stranger to making waves. As Manhattan’s first legal whiskey distillery since Prohibition ended in 1933, they’ve already carved out a name for themselves in the craft spirits world. Located at 686 Broadway in the vibrant NoHo neighborhood, the distillery is a beacon for whiskey lovers looking for something unique. Their new wheated bourbon is the latest proof of their commitment to quality, local sourcing, and a flavor profile that stands out in a crowded market.
What makes this bourbon special? It starts with the ingredients. Every grain—corn, malted barley, rye, and red winter wheat—comes from New York’s fertile Finger Lakes region. The soil there, known as the Black Dirt region, is legendary for its nutrient-rich composition, giving the grains a distinctive character that shines through in the final product. The bourbon is aged for at least four years in new American oak barrels, which impart depth and complexity. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), it’s strong enough to make a statement but smooth enough to sip effortlessly.
The flavor is where this bourbon really comes alive. Take a whiff, and you’re greeted with inviting aromas of cereals, toasted corn, and butter cookies, with just a hint of oak and a whisper of marzipan. On the palate, it’s a buttery delight, with subtle notes of caramel and a gentle kick of spice that keeps things interesting. The finish is smooth and balanced, leaving you ready for another sip. Great Jones calls it medium-bodied and well-structured, and it’s easy to see why—this is a bourbon that feels polished yet approachable, perfect for both newbies and seasoned whiskey drinkers.
One of the coolest things about this bourbon is how it’s made. Great Jones cuts it to proof with water from the Catskill Mountains, keeping the entire process rooted in New York. This attention to detail reflects their mission to create a spirit that’s not just a drink but a celebration of the Empire State. It’s no wonder they suggest pouring it into classic cocktails like a Manhattan or a Paper Plane—drinks that feel as timeless as New York City itself. Whether you’re mixing it up or sipping it neat, this bourbon delivers.
The release comes at a time when bourbon is having a moment. According to industry data, U.S. bourbon sales have jumped 22% over the past five years, with projections showing the market will top $5 billion by the end of 2025. Wheated bourbons, like this one, are especially hot right now. Unlike rye-heavy recipes that pack a spicy punch, wheated bourbons lean softer and smoother, making them a favorite for those who want a more mellow experience without sacrificing flavor. Great Jones has tapped into this trend perfectly, offering a bourbon that’s both accessible and sophisticated.
New York’s craft distilling scene is also on the rise, and Great Jones is leading the charge. While Kentucky often gets the spotlight for bourbon, New York is proving it can hold its own. The state’s history with whiskey runs deep, and Great Jones is reviving that legacy in a big way. Their NoHo distillery isn’t just a place to make whiskey—it’s a destination. Visitors can take tours to see the massive 500-gallon still in action, sample exclusive blends, or enjoy a meal at the distillery’s restaurant, where the menu is as locally inspired as the bourbon itself.
The launch of this wheated bourbon adds to Great Jones’ growing lineup, which already includes their Straight Bourbon, Four Grain Bourbon, and Rye Whiskey. Each of these is crafted with the same dedication to New York-sourced ingredients, but the wheated bourbon brings something new to the table. It’s a versatile spirit that can go toe-to-toe with the best of them, whether you’re enjoying it at a dive bar or a swanky cocktail lounge. And at $44.99, it’s priced to compete, offering incredible value for a craft bourbon of this caliber.
For those who love a good story with their drink, Great Jones doesn’t disappoint. The distillery’s roots trace back to Proximo Spirits and Juan Domingo Beckmann, an 11th-generation spirits maker whose family owns the iconic Jose Cuervo tequila brand. Beckmann’s vision was to create a whiskey that captures the energy and grit of New York City while honoring its agricultural heartland. The result is a bourbon that feels both modern and timeless, with a flavor profile that’s as bold as the city it calls home.
If you’re looking to try it for yourself, swing by the distillery at 686 Broadway for a tour or a tasting. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the whiskey. The 28,000-square-foot space is a mix of history and innovation, with a deconstructed copper still sculpture at the entrance and a speakeasy-style tasting room that feels like a step back in time. If you’re not in NYC, you can still get your hands on a bottle through select retailers or online, though availability might be limited given the buzz around this release.
Great Jones Distilling Co. is doing more than just making whiskey—they’re putting New York back on the map as a force in the spirits world. Their wheated bourbon is a testament to what happens when passion, local pride, and top-notch craftsmanship come together. So, next time you’re in the mood for a drink that tells a story, reach for a bottle of Great Jones Wheated Bourbon. It’s not just whiskey—it’s New York in a glass.
