Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has announced the launch of a new limited-edition Bourbon made with an experimental mashbill.

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt (46.5% ABV) is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey made from a mashbill of 65% corn, 30% mesquite-smoked malt and 5% malted barley. It marks the first Bourbon release from Bulleit to remove rye entirely from the recipe.

During the malting process, a portion of the malted barley is smoked over mesquite wood, imparting its distinctive smoky aroma. The mesquite wood-smoked grains are then incorporated into the mashbill before fermentation and distillation begin.

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is said to open with rich notes of caramelised sugar and warm mesquite smoke. The palate delivers layers of sweet vanilla and oak, balanced by a subtle smokiness that nods to classic barbecue pit flavours. The finish is light yet lingering, leaving a gentle, barbecue-inspired warmth.

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

Commenting on the launch, Phil Gelineau, Whiskey R&D Manager at Bulleit, said: “It’s important to note that while this release is a first-of-its-kind spirit for the brand, it is not a flavoured whiskey. 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.”

Bulleit Bourbon Mesquite Smoked Malt is now available in limited quantities from specialist retailers across the US, for a RRP of $49.99.