Manhattan’s first whiskey distillery since Prohibition has launched a new wheated bourbon made entirely from New York-grown grains, marking a significant moment for the Empire State’s growing craft spirits industry.
Great Jones Distilling Co. Unveils New York-Made Wheated Bourbon
Great Jones Distilling Co. released its latest core offering on June 9 – a wheated bourbon that showcases the distillery’s commitment to local sourcing. The $49.99 bourbon is made with 100% New York-grown corn, malted barley, rye, and red winter wheat from the Finger Lakes region. Aged for a minimum of four years in new American oak barrels, the whiskey is bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV).
The timing aligns with broader market trends. U.S. bourbon sales have increased 22% over the past five years and are projected to exceed $5 billion by 2025, according to data from IWSR and the Distilled Spirits Council. Wheated bourbons, known for their softer profiles compared to traditional rye-heavy recipes, are experiencing particular growth.
“Great Jones Wheated Bourbon is crafted from the finest ingredients: corn, barley, rye and wheat grain, all grown in the rich black dirt of the Empire State and aged in American oak barrels,” the company states in its release materials.
New York Distilling Gains Ground Beyond Traditional Whiskey Regions
While Kentucky, Scotland, Ireland, and Japan dominate whiskey conversations, New York State has quietly built a substantial craft distilling industry. Great Jones operates in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood, representing the borough’s first legal whiskey distillery since the Prohibition era ended in 1933.
The official tasting notes describe the wheated bourbon as having cereals, toasted corn, butter cookies, hints of oak and light marzipan on the nose. The palate offers a buttery texture with subtle caramel and spice notes, finishing smooth and balanced. The distillery characterizes it as medium-bodied and well-structured.
The bourbon is cut to proof using Catskill Mountain water, maintaining the New York provenance throughout the production process. Great Jones suggests serving it in classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Paper Plane, both recipes included in their promotional materials.
The wheated bourbon joins Great Jones’ existing core lineup as the distillery continues establishing its presence in the competitive American whiskey market.
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