Banner Distilling Wheat Whiskey Double Barrel Barrel Strength Review
Banner Distilling Wheat Whiskey Double Barrel Barrel Strength Review
Age: 8.3 Years
Proof: 138.7
Price: $50, a steal of a deal.
Barrel: #126
Mashbill: Texas-grown wheat, malted barley
This double barrel, barrel strength wheat whiskey from Banner Distilling is more than just a high-proof pour. It’s part of the distillery’s closing chapter.
Banner Distilling was established in 2012 in Manor, Texas by Logan Simpson and Tony Jimenez. From the beginning, the distillery was a passion project built around curiosity, experimentation, and a shared love of beer and fermentation. Whiskey, after all, is just beer that decided to stick around longer.
During my visit, Logan confirmed that Banner Distilling is preparing to shut down permanently. The distillery was never intended to be a full-time business, and with retirement approaching, Logan is choosing to retire the distillery as well. As a result, remaining barrels are being released, making this double barrel wheat whiskey one of the final opportunities to experience Banner’s work.
Nose
The nose leans dark and earthy, with notes of oak, dry cinnamon, wheat bread, dates, and dark cherry. There’s a subtle citrus note that reads like lemon oil or lemongrass, along with a brief French toast impression. The aroma doesn’t shift dramatically with time, but it stays consistent and inviting throughout.
Palate and Finish
On the palate, cherry and wheat bread show up immediately. The mouthfeel is thick, viscous, and coats the tongue thoroughly. The finish is long and warming, bringing red hot cinnamon candy heat. Some of that intensity likely comes from barrel influence, and some of it is simply the reality of a 138.7 proof whiskey.
Late in the finish, a mild grassy bitterness appears. Rather than detracting, it adds balance and keeps the whiskey from feeling overly sweet. With a splash of water, the profile opens significantly, revealing light molasses and cherry pastry notes and dialing back the heat.
Overall Impression
This is not a mindless sipper, but it’s also not a novelty bottle. It’s a whiskey meant to be explored, revisited, and even experimented with in cocktails. Despite the proof, it remains enjoyable and engaging.
For fans of wheat whiskey, barrel strength releases, or Texas craft distilling, this bottle checks a lot of boxes. With Banner Distilling closing its doors, it also represents something increasingly rare: a whiskey that won’t ever be made again.
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