Review: Wheel Horse Barrel Master Select Bourbon

Founded in 2019, Wheel Horse Whiskey has earned a loyal following by offering high-quality, affordably priced bourbon and rye distilled at the historic Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro, Kentucky. Known for its 101-proof batched expressions, Wheel Horse has built a reputation for delivering exceptional whiskey with character and transparency.

Now, for the first time ever for small batch, Wheel Horse is raising the bar—and the proof.

Barrel Master Select Batch No. BP-001 marks a new chapter: the first small batch release bottled above 101 proof. This inaugural 12-barrel batch was hand-selected by Stephen Corrigan and clocks in at 112.6 proof, offering whiskey fans a new dimension of flavor and intensity.

As with previous Wheel Horse bourbon releases, this expression uses the classic Owensboro mashbill of 70% corn, 21% winter rye, and 9% 6-row malted barley. Aged for a minimum of 5 years and 4 months in #4 char barrels from Speyside Cooperage, this whiskey matured primarily in Green River’s Hartford, Kentucky warehouse—metal-clad buildings that use palletized aging methods, a notable contrast to the clay-tile, rick-style warehouses in Owensboro. The barrels were later transported to Rhode Island for up to a year of final aging, resulting in an average age of 5 years and 6 months.

Bottled without chill filtration and limited to just 2,100 bottles, Barrel Master Select showcases the full, unfiltered character of Wheel Horse Bourbon.

In a market where prices continue to climb, Barrel Master Select delivers exceptional value at just $40. Wheel Horse has consistently impressed at lower proof points and younger ages—now, we get to see what they can do with extra maturity and full cask strength.

The proof is in the pour. Let’s find out what five and a half years at full strength tastes like.

Wheel Horse Barrel Master Select Bourbon Review

The nose opens with tangy raspberry and rose petals, soon accompanied by the scent of Nutella and a touch of savory nutmeg. As the glass settles, these aromas evolve into something deeper and more inviting. On the palate, the whiskey brings to mind fresh New Orleans pralines, almond extract, and a hint of chicory, all with a medium-thick viscosity that adds substance. The finish transitions to roasted German almonds and mild coffee, before fading into dried cranberries, leaving a clean and satisfying conclusion.

This is easily the best small batch release from Wheel Horse to date. At $40, it stands out in a market where many similar expressions are priced higher. For comparison, Green River’s flagship offering is $35 at 90 proof, while Green River Full Proof with a bit more age is priced at $50 for a comparable proof point. It’s going to be tough to find a better new release under $40 in 2025.

112.6 proof.

A- / $40

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