Bulleit Bourbon experiments with mesquite-smoked malt
Diageo’s Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has launched a limited edition Bourbon made with an experimental mashbill that replaces rye with mesquite wood-smoked malt.
The one-time limited edition is the brand’s first whiskey to remove rye from its mashbill and replace it with experimental malted barley.
Some Bulleit whiskeys have explored mashbills that exclude rye, including its American single malt. This release, however, marks a rare departure from Bulleit Bourbon’s traditional high-rye style.
The limited release marks the brand’s first experimental new-make project, part of a wider and ongoing effort to explore unique grains, experiences, and ageing techniques.
Phil Gelineau, whiskey research and development manager at Bulleit, commented on the new release: “It’s important to note that while this release is a first-of-its-kind spirit for the brand, it is not a flavoured whiskey.
“The subtle smokiness comes from the mesquite wood-smoked malt used in the mashbill. As it has aged, those notes have rounded into something richer and more complex, with layers of brown sugar, caramel, and real depth of body.
“The mesquite character lingers on top, giving it a smooth yet distinctive smoky finish.”
Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt’s mashbill contains 65% corn, 30% mesquite smoked malt, and 5% malted barley.
During the malting process, some of the malted barley is smoked over native American mesquite wood, giving it a distinctive smoky aroma. The mesquite-smoked grains are then incorporated into the mashbill before fermentation and distillation.
The whiskey was distilled in November 2018 and aged for at least six years before being bottled at 46.5% ABV in the fall of 2025.
Described as ‘BBQ’s new favourite pairing’, the Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey offers notes of vanilla, caramelised sugar, mesquite smoke and oak.
Brian Blackiston, brand manager at Diageo for Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, said: “Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is a clear example of how we keep pushing the frontiers of Bourbon while staying grounded in craftsmanship.
“We set out to make a high-quality whiskey that can be enjoyed in casual environments, especially alongside well-prepared BBQ, and then we got to work.
“It’s built for people who appreciate new ways to experience flavour, real technique, and whiskey that shows up with purpose.”
Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is now available nationwide in the US, with limited distribution. The suggested retail price is US$49.99 for a 750ml bottle.
Last year, the American whiskey brand launched its Doing Over Dreaming campaign, which seeks to ‘salute the moments when ideas get sparked over a drink and turned into something real’.
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