Bulleit Frontier Whiskey announced the launch of Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a limited-time release made with an experimental mashbill. 

This marks the first time a Bulleit Bourbon has removed rye from the recipe. What sets this release apart is the work that happens before the first drop is ever distilled. During the malting process, a portion of the malted barley is smoked over mesquite wood, imparting its signature smoky aroma. 

The mesquite wood-smoked grains are then used as an ingredient in the mashbill before fermentation and distillation begin. No artificial flavors. Nothing else added. The rest follows Bulleit’s proven Kentucky Straight Bourbon distillation process, where consistency and craft do the heavy lifting.

That careful attention to the grains shows up in every sip, from the nose to the lingering finish.  That experience is driven by the mashbill and the work done long before the liquid reaches the glass.

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is made with 65% corn, 30% mesquite smoked malt, and 5% malted barley. Bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV), the higher proof point allows the liquid to deliver more depth and intensity, letting the smoky and malty notes shine.

“It’s important to note that while this release is a first-of-its-kind spirit for the brand, it is not a flavored whiskey,” Phil Gelineau, Whiskey R&D Manager at Bulleit, said in a news release. “The subtle smokiness comes from the mesquite wood-smoked malt used in the mashbill. As it has aged, those notes have rounded into something richer and more complex, with layers of brown sugar, caramel, and real depth of body. The mesquite character lingers on top, giving it a smooth yet distinctive smoky finish.”

While some Bulleit whiskeys have previously explored mashbills without rye, including the brand’s American Single Malt expression, this release represents a rare variation to Bulleit Bourbon’s traditional high-rye style. 

“Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is a clear example of how we keep pushing the frontiers of bourbon while staying grounded in craftsmanship,” Brian Blackiston, Brand Manager at Diageo for Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, said. “We set out to make a high-quality whiskey that can be enjoyed in casual environments, especially alongside well-prepared BBQ, and then we got to work. It’s built for people who appreciate new ways to experience flavor, real technique, and whiskey that shows up with purpose.”

The whiskey was first distilled in November 2018 and aged for a minimum of six years at Bulleit Distilling Co. before being pulled from the barrel in 2025. It was bottled in Fall 2025 and represents Bulleit’s first experimental new-make project, part of a broader and ongoing focus on exploring unique grains, experiences, and aging techniques while preserving a commitment to quality.

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is a one-time release available with a suggested retail price of $49.99 (750mL) beginning March 2, 2026, with limited distribution nationwide. Visit www.bulleit.com to find stores where Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is available near you, or order a bottle for shipping or delivery at ReserveBar and TheBar.com.

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ABOUT BULLEIT

Founded in 1987, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey was inspired by an old recipe that turned into one of the fastest-growing whiskeys in America. Unlike traditional corn-forward bourbons, Bulleit is known for using a high rye mashbill, resulting in a bold, spicy character with an unexpectedly smooth finish. It offers a distinctive take on whiskies that sets it apart from the start. For more information about Bulleit Frontier Whiskey and the distillery, visit https://www.bulleit.com/.