I previously reviewed Barrel #1of this high proof Bourbon, and my notes from that barrel work here as well despite the small ABV bump. There are more and more wheated whiskeys on the market, and this bottle will make you understand why so many distillers are choosing wheat over rye in blending their high end products. I was fooled by the spice character that the wheat presents here – it seems rye-ish, but there’s a sweetness to the spice that is rounder and mellower than rye spice, and there’s less grassy character as well. That said, the palate doesn’t come off as sweet at all. Complexity and depth are the hallmarks here, and as usual with high proof, dilute for maximum enjoyment. A great gift package is a plus… 95
Spirit of the Year and a Platinum Award winner at the 2026 San Diego International Spirits Competition. 95
Reviewed by Rich Cook
Brand – Weldon Mills
Spirit Type – Bourbon Whiskey
Other Designation – Norman’s 53 Single Barrel Straight, Barrel No. 2
Country of Origin – USA
ABV – 64.1%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $295
Score – 95
Date Reviewed – 4/16/2026