Overview: In a move that is set to shake up the world of bourbon, Diageo’s Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has released a limited edition bourbon made with an experimental mesquite wood-smoked malt. This game-changing release marks a significant departure from traditional bourbon production methods and promises to deliver a bold and innovative spirit.
The Full Story
Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is the result of extensive research and experimentation by Diageo’s team of experts, who sought to push the boundaries of what is possible in bourbon production. 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.
The limited edition release marks a rare departure from Bulleit Bourbon’s traditional high-rye style, with the brand opting to replace rye with mesquite wood-smoked malt in its mashbill. This bold move is part of Diageo’s ongoing effort to explore unique grains, experiences, and aging techniques.
Phil Gelineau, whiskey research and development manager at Bulleit, commented on the new release: “It’s essential to note that while this release is a first-of-its-kind spirit for the brand, it is not a flavored whiskey. The subtle smokiness comes from the mesquite wood-smoked malt used in the mashbill.”
Production & Profile
The 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 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. The result is a complex spirit with layers of brown sugar, caramel, and real depth of body.
Brand & Industry History
Bulleit Bourbon has been pushing the boundaries of traditional bourbon production for years, experimenting with unique grains and aging techniques to create bold and innovative spirits. This limited edition release is part of Diageo’s ongoing effort to explore new possibilities in whiskey production.
The brand’s history dates back to 1987 when Tom Bulleit launched his eponymous bourbon brand. Since then, the company has been committed to innovation and experimentation, always seeking ways to push the boundaries of what is possible in bourbon production.
What This Means
This limited edition release marks a significant departure from traditional bourbon production methods and promises to deliver a bold and innovative spirit. The use of mesquite wood-smoked malt adds a new dimension to the whiskey, with notes of vanilla, caramelised sugar, mesquite smoke, and oak.
The success of this release will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the industry as a whole. It demonstrates that there is still room for innovation and experimentation in bourbon production and may inspire other brands to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Consumer Takeaway
Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is now available nationwide in the US, with limited distribution. The suggested retail price is $49.99 for a 750ml bottle. This release offers consumers an opportunity to experience something new and innovative, pushing the boundaries of what they expect from bourbon.
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