Jefferson’s Ocean Wheated Nicholas Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon

Very few people get allocated any of the Jefferson’s Ocean Aged Wheated Bourbon. But no one gets their hands on their own barrel. Yet somehow, lightning has struck twice in Red Bank.

Here’s why Ocean Wheated is so dang good: these Jefferson Ocean Aged bourbon journeys really do involve actual ocean voyages. Barrels get rocked constantly, experience extreme temperature swings, soak in salt air. But here’s the thing—most bourbons can’t handle that. A rye mash bill introduces peppery, spicy notes that clash with the ocean’s briny influence. I find it harsh and would think that most people would call too aggressive.

Wheat is way different. It’s softer and doesn’t compete with those big, bold oceany flavors. Instead, it creates a sweeter, more supple base that perfectly complements the unique ocean influence. The constant rocking motion pushes the bourbon deeper into the oak. The sweeter, less-aggressive nature of the wheat allows those complex, oaky flavors to really shine. You get the whole works: caramel, butterscotch, vanilla balanced by subtle sea salt and cinnamon. And the finish is what really seals the deal – an oily, silky smooth caramelly finish without the any burn. A crazy good Bourbon.