Day 25: Glenns Creek Swheat Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey

As I gear up for the Bourbon Country Burn next weekend—a three-day cycling event through the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon country—my pours will be from distilleries along the route. The Burn is a unique combination of cycling and bourbon, with stops at some of the most iconic distilleries in the Bluegrass State. This week’s pours will serve as a preview of what’s to come during the ride.

Glenns Creek Distillery is one of those hidden gems in Kentucky’s bourbon world, located on the historic grounds of the Old Crow Distillery in Frankfort. Once a powerhouse in the bourbon industry, Old Crow shut down its original facility in the 1980s, leaving the site abandoned. In 2014, David Meier and his small team took on the monumental task of reviving the old distillery grounds, transforming it into Glenns Creek. This small-scale, craft distillery focuses on producing limited, experimental batches with bold, distinctive flavors, setting them apart from the larger distilleries that dominate the scene.

What makes Glenns Creek unique is their dedication to experimentation. Their small-batch bourbons often feature unusual mash bills and aging techniques that deliver a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. Despite their size, they’ve cultivated a loyal following by offering high-proof whiskies that defy convention.

One of their standout offerings is Swheat Bourbon, a wheat-forward whiskey that replaces the typical spiciness of rye with the smooth, soft character of wheat. My pour today comes from a special barrel, barrel #14, which was picked for the Bourbon Country Burn last year. Bottled at 105.6 proof and aged for at least 47 months, this bourbon brings a balance of rich, sweet wheat with the boldness of Glenns Creek’s distillation techniques.

On the nose, you’ll find aromas of honey, baked bread, and a hint of cinnamon. The palate opens with soft, sweet flavors of caramel and vanilla, rounded out by notes of toasted oak and a touch of spice. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering sweetness and just a bit of warmth from the higher proof.

Glenns Creek may not be as well-known as some of Kentucky’s larger distilleries, but it’s absolutely worth seeking out—whether you’re visiting during the Bourbon Country Burn or planning a trip through bourbon country. This Swheat Bourbon is a great example of what they’re capable of producing: a bold, flavorful pour with a unique character.

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 Distillery: Glenns Creek Distillery
 Barrel: #14, selected for the Bourbon Country Burn in 2023
 Proof: 105.6 (52.8% ABV)
 Age: Aged at least 47 months
 Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Wheat-forward bourbon)
 Availability: Limited release, no longer available