In the bourbon world, few names carry the weight of tradition and history, like Bulleit bourbon Frontier whiskey. This remarkable spirit traces its roots back to a 150-year-old family recipe. The recipe was created by Augustus Bulleit, the great-great-grandfather of the brand’s founder, Tom Bulleit.
The story begins in the mid-19th century when Augustus crafted a distinctive rye whiskey, using a blend of 67% rye and 33% corn, right in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, between 1830 and 1860.
Tom Bulleit’s journey to resurrect this extraordinary family legacy was a winding one. He first served in the US Marine Corps and then pursued a career in law. Yet, the dream of recreating his ancestor’s recipe never left him.
In 1987, he took the plunge and created a small batch bourbon that would bear the iconic family name. To ensure it qualified as a true bourbon, the mash bill was adjusted to 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley.
One of the first things that capture your attention about Bulleit bourbon is its distinctive bottle shape. Modelled after antique medicine bottles, it features raised lettering and an askew label, reminiscent of how it might have appeared in the 1860s. In 1997, Seagram acquired the Bulleit brand, setting the stage for its continued journey.
Following various acquisitions, the Bulleit brand now rests under the ownership of Diageo, and its production takes place at the Kirin Brewing Company Four Roses distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
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Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey
COUNTRY: USA
ABV: 45%
COLOUR: Light amber
NOSE: Bulleit bourbon greets your senses with a spicy punch upfront, departing from the usual sweetness associated with traditional bourbons. In the background, hints of sticky toffee pudding and vanilla bean emerge. With time, a subtle caramel note weaves into the aromatic tapestry.
PALATE: This bourbon is a rich, chewy experience, brimming with spice that never overwhelms. Beyond the initial spice, you’ll discover notes of toffee caramel, vanilla, and a touch of wood. In the background is subtle hints of orange and freshly baked sugar biscuits.
Even when water is added, Bulleit bourbon maintains its frontier spirit, becoming smoother and slightly sweeter, all while retaining its robust character.
FINISH: The finish is delightful – long, lingering, and memorable. It stays with you well after you’ve savoured the last drop, boasting bold notes of mild spice and subtle hints of oak.
RATING: EXCELLENT
What a lovely bourbon. The first sip brings spices and pepper, but on sip two, the toffee, vanilla and oak move forward. It has a lovely balance without any overwhelming elements.
Bulleit bourbon departs from the familiar sweetness found in traditional counterparts. Its uniqueness lies in its unparalleled flavour profile, making it a standout choice for those seeking something extraordinary.
Bulleit bourbon frontier whiskey is readily available in South Africa and is typically priced at around R 400. A great affordable bourbon whiskey. In the USA, you can find it for approximately $42. I have seen it on Amazon for around £32.
And if you’re intrigued by Bulleit bourbon whiskey, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its sibling, Bulleit Rye whiskey.
Side by Side Comparisons
I’ve undertaken a side-by-side comparison between Bulleit and Woodford Reserve bourbon, shedding light on their nuanced differences. In my final tasting experience of 2021, I set Bulleit bourbon alongside Buffalo Trace bourbon, aiming to determine which one captures my preference.
I have also done a side by side comparison between the Bulleit Rye and Bulleit bourbon to see how the mash bill profile changes the taste.
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