Old Emmer is a private‑label whiskey you’ll mostly find at Total Wine. It comes out of Kentucky, and there’s some chatter that it might be produced at Buffalo Trace. It uses an ancient Emmer wheat strain in its high‑wheat mash bill—something you don’t come across every day. During my visit to Total Wine, I spotted two minis and picked them up—so the question is: how do they taste? Let’s dive in.
Old Emmer Finest Wheat (46% ABV): The 50ml mini cost me $3.99, and the 750ml goes for $44.99.
Nose: Sweet, oaky, and vanilla‑forward.
Palate: Wheat, vanilla, some spice, and a bit of oak.
Finish: Warm, slightly spicy, with oak hanging on at the end.
Old Emmer Cask Strength (60.1% ABV): The 50ml cost me $4.49, and the 750ml goes for $49.99.
Nose: Vanilla, oak, caramel, and a touch of red fruit.
Palate: Vanilla and caramel up front, followed by baking spices and a burnt‑sugar vibe—almost like crème brûlée.
Finish: Spicy, peppery, and warming.
Both expressions were better than expected, but the clear standout for me was the Cask Strength. Surprisingly, I found it easier to drink than the Finest Wheat. The Finest Wheat came across a bit harsh and bitter, with the alcohol burn hitting its peak. The Cask Strength, on the other hand, delivered warmth without overwhelming heat, balanced beautifully by notes of vanilla and caramel. I even picked up a lovely crème brûlée note that made the sip genuinely enjoyable. If you’re curious, start with the minis — but honestly, at $49.99, the Cask Strength is an excellent value.
Cheers!
Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend people to try it and make up their own minds.
