Bernheim vs Larceny: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 10:13 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Bernheim vs Larceny in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Bernheim Original Wheat vs Larceny Small Batch: Comparison

Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey: America’s pioneering wheat whiskey since 2005, Bernheim stands out with a smooth and sweet profile, featuring caramel, honey, and a touch of cinnamon on the nose, followed by a palate of caramel, bread crust, and nutmeg. Its finish is medium-length, dominated by caramel and bread notes. Aged 7 years, it’s a solid pick for those seeking a unique, wheat-forward sip at an affordable price.

Larceny Bourbon: Larceny offers a wheated bourbon experience that’s both affordable and flavorful, marked by a nose of banana bread, vanilla, and butterscotch. The palate delivers a smooth blend of banana, caramel, and oak, leading to a sweet finish of caramel and oak spice. Aged between 6-12 years, Larceny scores high in drinkability and value, making it a great choice for everyday enjoyment.

Verdict: Both whiskies hail from Heaven Hill Distillery, showcasing the versatility of wheat in whiskey. Bernheim’s wheat whiskey status and Larceny’s bourbon classification highlight different approaches to wheated spirits. Bernheim’s uniqueness lies in its status as a wheat whiskey, offering a lighter, sweeter profile, while Larceny, as a bourbon, provides a richer, more traditional bourbon experience with its own sweet twist, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Unveiling Bernheim: The Original Wheat Whiskey

Nose: Caramel, honey, cinnamon
Palate: Caramel, bread crust, nutmeg, oak
Finish: Medium, caramel, bread
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Weller Special Reserve

Whiskey history buffs, rejoice! Bernheim, introduced in 2005, holds the title of America’s first commercially available wheat whiskey. This unique spirit boasts a smooth, sweet flavor profile, making it a great everyday sipper.

Wheat Takes Center Stage:

Bernheim’s mash bill stands out with 51% winter wheat, setting it apart from most wheated bourbons. Expect initial aromas of caramel, honey, and a hint of cinnamon.

Sweet & Smooth on the Palate:

While Bernheim might feel lighter than some bourbons, its flavor is undeniably smooth and sweet. Caramel takes the lead, followed by hints of bread crust, nutmeg, and toasty oak.

Lingering Caramel Finish:

The finish is decent, leaving you with lingering caramel notes and a bready undertone. Want more punch? Try it neat!

Beyond the Bottle:

Aged for 7 years, Bernheim has garnered accolades like “Pioneer Whiskey of the Year” and a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Verdict:

While Bernheim might not be the most complex whiskey, it offers a pleasant and affordable everyday sip. Its smooth sweetness and unique wheat character make it worth a try, especially for history buffs and budget-conscious drinkers.

Bonus Fact:

Bernheim’s name pays homage to Bernheim Distillery, one of the oldest in Kentucky, dating back to 1790.

Sipping Sweetness: Unveiling Larceny Bourbon

Nose: Banana bread, vanilla, butterscotch
Palate: Banana, caramel, oak
Finish: Caramel, oak spice
Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Elijah Craig Small Batch

Craving a smooth, wheated bourbon without breaking the bank? Look no further than Larceny! This approachable spirit boasts a delicious flavor profile and an even friendlier price tag.

Banana Bread Bonanza:

Larceny’s unique mashbill leans on wheat, creating a taste distinct from classic bourbons. On the nose, you’ll get a hint of warming spice that mellows into sweet banana bread, vanilla, and butterscotch.

First Sip Sensation:

Prepare for a touch of heat at first, but don’t worry, it fades fast. You’re then greeted by a wave of caramel sweetness, more banana bread goodness, and a touch of oaky warmth. Think smooth, not heavy.

Sweet & Short Finish:

The finish is warming and sweet, leaving a pleasant impression. Want it even smoother? Add a splash of water for a more mellow, candy-like experience.

Beyond the Basics:

Aged 6-12 years, Larceny has racked up accolades: 93 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, a top 20 spot in F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal, and “Best Buy” status from Whisky Magazine.

The Verdict:

While not the smoothest wheated bourbon, Larceny offers a delightful, affordable sip. Its sweet banana bread notes, manageable heat, and smooth texture (especially with water) make it a great everyday pour.

Bonus Fact:

Larceny’s name is a nod to John E. Fitzgerald, a treasury agent who…well, let’s just say he was enthusiastic about Kentucky bourbon.

Cheers!

What do Bernheim and Larceny have in common?

Bernheim and Larceny are made at the Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, KY along with other brands such as Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, Pikesville, and Rittenhouse Rye, among others.