Wheated bourbons are celebrated for their smooth, mellow flavor profiles, making them a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. For those seeking to craft their own or find a refined bottle, I’ve identified four standout options. The North Georgia Still Company’s Willett Wheated Bourbon Style Master Distillers Kit makes an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts wanting authentic flavor without complex processes. Meanwhile, the Angels Envy Bourbon Style Fermentation Kit offers a rich, traditional distilling experience suited for seasoned hobbyists. For newcomers, the Complete Lincoln County Process Tennessee Whiskey Recipe Mash Kit provides a straightforward entry point, though it demands patience and additional equipment. Each option balances flavor quality, ease of use, and price, but the tradeoff always involves complexity or investment.
Key Takeaways
- Wheated bourbons are favored for their smooth, sweet flavor profiles, ideal for sipping or mixing.
- DIY kits offer a hands-on approach, but they require patience, additional equipment, and some distilling knowledge.
- Premium ready-to-drink options focus on authentic flavor but may be costly or complex for beginners.
- Choosing the right product depends on your experience level, budget, and whether you prefer crafting or buying ready-made bourbon.
- All options have tradeoffs: simplicity versus authenticity, cost versus customization, or beginner-friendly versus professional-grade.
| Complete Lincoln County Process Tennessee Whiskey Recipe Mash Kit – DIY Spirit Making at Home |  | Best for Beginners and DIY Enthusiasts | Included Components: Corn, Grain, Sugar, Sugar Maple Charcoal, Yeast | Brand Name: TAPCRAFT | Set Name: Lincoln County Process Tennessee Whiskey Recipe Mash Kit | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| North Georgia Still Company’s Rabbit Hole Bourbon Style Master Distillers Kit, Fermentation Kit for Moonshine, DIY 5 Gallon Mash Kit |  | Best for Authentic Bourbon Flavor with Advanced DIY | Grain: 11 lbs corn, 2 lbs honey malted barley, 1 lb malted wheat, 1 lb malted rye | Enzymes: 10ml high-temp alpha amylase, 5ml gluco-amylase | Mash Size: 5 gallons | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| North Georgia Still Company’s Willett Wheated Bourbon Style Master Distillers Kit, Fermentation Kit for Moonshine, DIY 5 Gallon Mash Kit |  | Best for Authentic and Flavorful Wheated Bourbon | Grain Content: 10 lbs milled corn, 3 lbs malted wheat, 2 lbs malted rye | Volume: 5 gallons | ABV: 7-8% | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| North Georgia Still Company’s Angels Envy Bourbon Style Master Distiller Fermentation Kit |  | Best for Rich, Traditional Bourbon with Authenticity | Grain weight: 11 lbs corn, 1 lb malted barley, 3 lbs malted rye | Volume: 5 gallons | Enzymes: Alpha Amylase (10ml), Gluco-Amylase (5ml) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wheated bourbon | ABV | Enzymes | Includes | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Lincoln County Proces | — | — | — | — |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | 7-8% | 10ml high-temp alpha amylase, 5ml gluco-amylase | Yeast, enzymes, sanitizer, instructions | — |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | 7-8% | — | Yeast, nutrients, enzymes, sanitizer | 5 gallons |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | Approximately 8% | Alpha Amylase (10ml), Gluco-Amylase (5ml) | — | 5 gallons |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Complete Lincoln County Process Tennessee Whiskey Recipe Mash Kit – DIY Spirit Making at Home
This kit stands out for offering all the essential ingredients to craft a traditional Tennessee whiskey using the Lincoln County Process. It’s perfect for hobbyists eager to learn the distilling craft, though it does require additional equipment and patience. Compared with more advanced kits, it’s more accessible but can feel complex for complete novices. The inclusion of grains like corn, barley, rye, and wheat ensures authentic flavor, but the process demands time and some technical skill. It’s a solid starter for those interested in hands-on whiskey-making, especially as a gift for a whiskey lover keen to DIY.
Pros:- All-in-one kit with authentic ingredients
- Suitable for beginners willing to learn
- Creates traditional Tennessee whiskey flavors
- Makes an excellent gift for enthusiasts
Cons:- Requires additional equipment and patience
- Limited to home use, not for commercial production
- Process may be complex for absolute beginners
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists interested in traditional Tennessee whiskey
Not ideal for: Those seeking a quick, ready-to-drink solution or no-fuss experience
- Included Components:Corn, Grain, Sugar, Sugar Maple Charcoal, Yeast
- Brand Name:TAPCRAFT
- Set Name:Lincoln County Process Tennessee Whiskey Recipe Mash Kit
- Number of Items:1
- Model Number:T-Wmash
- UPC:753275829813
Our verdict“A great starting point for DIY whiskey lovers willing to invest time and effort into crafting Tennessee-style bourbon.”
North Georgia Still Company’s Rabbit Hole Bourbon Style Master Distillers Kit, Fermentation Kit for Moonshine, DIY 5 Gallon Mash Kit
This 5-gallon distillers kit is designed for those ready to craft a distinctly bourbon-style mash with a rich profile of vanilla, caramel, and toffee. It includes grains, enzymes, yeast, and detailed instructions, making it suitable for experienced hobbyists who appreciate control over fermentation. Compared to simpler kits, it offers a more authentic bourbon flavor profile, thanks to high-quality enzymes and a balanced grain mix. However, it requires additional sugar to reach higher ABVs and might be overwhelming for complete beginners. This kit makes sense for those who want a deeper level of involvement and authentic flavor without stepping into professional distilling.
Pros:- Complete with ingredients and instructions
- Produces authentic bourbon flavor profile
- Includes premium enzymes for fermentation
- Great for those wanting to craft at home
Cons:- Requires additional sugar for higher ABV
- Advanced fermentation process
- Contains malted grains unsuitable for gluten-sensitive users
Best for: Experienced DIYers seeking authentic bourbon flavor
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or those seeking a quick solution
- Grain:11 lbs corn, 2 lbs honey malted barley, 1 lb malted wheat, 1 lb malted rye
- Enzymes:10ml high-temp alpha amylase, 5ml gluco-amylase
- Mash Size:5 gallons
- ABV:7-8%
- Includes:Yeast, enzymes, sanitizer, instructions
Our verdict“Ideal for seasoned hobbyists aiming for a genuine bourbon mash with full control over fermentation and flavor.”
North Georgia Still Company’s Willett Wheated Bourbon Style Master Distillers Kit, Fermentation Kit for Moonshine, DIY 5 Gallon Mash Kit
This 5-gallon fermentation kit is crafted for those wanting to produce a smooth, flavorful bourbon with notes of vanilla, caramel, and toffee, closely mirroring traditional wheated bourbon profiles. It includes grains, yeast, enzymes, and instructions, emphasizing flavor complexity without added sugars. Compared to the previous kit, it leans more toward flavor richness and authenticity, with specialized enzymes for maximum starch conversion. It’s suitable for DIY distillation enthusiasts comfortable with a more detailed process but may be too complex for complete beginners. The flavor notes make it especially appealing for those who appreciate nuanced, sweet bourbon profiles.
Pros:- Complete ingredient set with instructions
- Produces authentic wheated bourbon flavor
- Specialized enzymes for better starch conversion
- Suitable for serious DIY distillers
Cons:- Requires additional sugar for higher ABV
- May be complex for newcomers
- Contains specialized ingredients that might not suit all users
Best for: Experienced DIYers seeking rich, authentic wheated bourbon
Not ideal for: Beginners or those needing a quick, straightforward project
- Grain Content:10 lbs milled corn, 3 lbs malted wheat, 2 lbs malted rye
- Volume:5 gallons
- ABV:7-8%
- Includes:Yeast, nutrients, enzymes, sanitizer
- Flavor Notes:Vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, toffee, oak
Our verdict“Best suited for experienced home distillers aiming for a rich, authentic wheated bourbon experience with more control over flavor development.”
North Georgia Still Company’s Angels Envy Bourbon Style Master Distiller Fermentation Kit
This kit offers a traditional approach, producing about 8% ABV of a rich bourbon mash featuring vanilla, caramel, and spice notes. It includes grains, enzymes, yeast, and instructions, emphasizing authentic flavor profiles without added sugars. Compared with other kits, it’s more suitable for experienced hobbyists familiar with fermentation and distillation techniques. The use of professional-grade enzymes ensures efficient starch conversion, but the process may be demanding for beginners. It’s well-suited for those seeking a classic bourbon profile in their homemade spirits, with a focus on flavor depth and authenticity.
Pros:- Complete ingredients with instructions
- Produces authentic bourbon flavor
- Rich vanilla, caramel, spice notes
- Includes professional enzymes
Cons:- Requires extra sugar for higher ABV
- Traditional process may be challenging for novices
- No specific price info available
Best for: Seasoned home distillers wanting a rich, traditional bourbon mash
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking a quick, no-fuss project
- Grain weight:11 lbs corn, 1 lb malted barley, 3 lbs malted rye
- Volume:5 gallons
- Enzymes:Alpha Amylase (10ml), Gluco-Amylase (5ml)
- ABV:Approximately 8%
- Storage:Cool, dark place
Our verdict“A solid choice for experienced hobbyists aiming for authentic, rich bourbon flavor in their homemade spirits.”
How We Picked
Our selection process centered on authenticity, ease of use, and value for different types of bourbon lovers. We prioritized kits that replicate traditional wheated bourbon flavors, especially those with grains like wheat, corn, and rye. Ease of assembly, clarity of instructions, and ingredient quality were key. We also considered the complexity of distillation, whether the product is suitable for beginners, and overall value for the price. For ready-made options, flavor profile authenticity and reputation mattered most. Each product was evaluated for its unique role—be it beginner-friendly, premium, or DIY-focused—ensuring a diverse lineup that meets various needs.
| wheated bourbon | Includes |
|---|---|
| Complete Lincoln County Proces | — |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | Yeast, enzymes, sanitizer, instructions |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | Yeast, nutrients, enzymes, sanitizer |
| North Georgia Still Company’s | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Wheated Bourbons
Choosing the best wheated bourbon, whether as a DIY project or a ready-made bottle, depends largely on your experience, flavor preferences, and how much effort you want to put in. For those new to distilling, simple kits that focus on flavor and ease of use are ideal, but they often compromise on authenticity. Seasoned hobbyists will appreciate more complex kits that offer control over fermentation and flavor development, while premium options cater to connoisseurs seeking authentic, nuanced profiles. Understanding your goals and skill level helps narrow down the best options.
Experience Level
If you are just starting out, look for kits that include comprehensive instructions and pre-measured ingredients. These kits reduce the learning curve and help you produce a decent bourbon without feeling overwhelmed. Advanced users should seek kits with specialized enzymes and larger grain varieties for better flavor complexity and control. Seasoned distillers might prefer professional-grade kits that emphasize authentic techniques and traditional flavor profiles.
Flavor Profile
Wheated bourbons are characterized by their smooth, sweet, and mellow notes, often with vanilla, caramel, and toffee undertones. If your goal is a rich, nuanced flavor, focus on kits that highlight these characteristics, like the Willett or Angels Envy styles. For more straightforward, drinkable spirits, simpler kits like the Lincoln County Process mash provide authentic flavor with less complexity. Consider whether you want a more traditional or modern profile when choosing your kit.
Budget and Investment
DIY kits vary widely in price, from affordable options suitable for beginners to more expensive, professional-grade kits for serious hobbyists. Remember that additional equipment, such as fermenters or stills, may be necessary unless explicitly included. Ready-made bottles or pre-distilled spirits are more expensive upfront but save time and effort. Balance your budget with your desired level of involvement and authenticity to make the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wheated bourbon?
Wheated bourbon is a style of bourbon that replaces the traditional rye grain with wheat as the secondary grain. This substitution results in a softer, sweeter profile with less spice, making it more approachable for new bourbon drinkers and those seeking a smoother experience. Famous examples include Buffalo Trace’s Weller lineup and Maker’s Mark, which are known for their rich, mellow flavors.
Can I make wheated bourbon at home using these kits?
Yes, all the kits listed are designed for home distillation or fermentation, allowing enthusiasts to craft their own wheated bourbon-style spirits. However, it’s important to note that distilling spirits at home is subject to legal restrictions in many areas, and safety precautions must be followed. These kits provide the ingredients and instructions needed to produce authentic flavors, but the process requires patience and some technical skill.
What equipment do I need beyond these kits?
Most DIY kits require additional basic distillation equipment such as fermenters, stills, and containers for aging or storage. Some kits may include all necessary items, but many assume the user has or will acquire the basic tools. For ready-made spirits, no additional equipment is needed, but keep in mind that home distilling often involves additional gear and safety considerations.
Are these kits suitable for beginners?
Several kits, like the Lincoln County Process mash, are designed with beginners in mind, offering straightforward instructions and pre-measured ingredients. Others, like the Willett or Angels Envy kits, are better suited for those with some experience due to their complexity and the need for more precise fermentation control. If you’re new, start with simpler kits and gradually progress to more advanced options as your skills develop.
How long does it typically take to see results?
The fermentation process alone can take from a week to several weeks, depending on the kit and desired flavor profile. Distillation, if involved, adds additional time, and aging (if desired) can extend the process further. For most DIY kits, plan on at least a few weeks before your spirit is ready to enjoy, with more time needed if aging or additional processing steps are involved.
Conclusion
For newcomers eager to learn, the Lincoln County Process kit offers a manageable entry point with authentic flavor outcomes. Serious DIYers seeking control and nuance will prefer the Willett or Angels Envy kits for their rich profiles and detailed fermentation options. Those who prefer convenience or lack the space and time for brewing might opt for premium ready-made bourbons, but they sacrifice some degree of customization. Ultimately, your choice depends on your experience, patience, and how much you want to be involved in crafting your perfect wheated bourbon.
