What Is a Bourbon Mashbill? Your Guide to Bourbon’s Recipe

If you hang out in the bourbon community long enough, you’ll hear the term “mashbill” tossed around constantly. It can feel confusing at first, but understanding it is a game-changer for figuring out which bourbons you’ll love—and which ones might be worth a splurge. So, what exactly is a mashbill? Simply put, it’s the “recipe” for the spirit—the mix of grains that create the liquid in your glass. Let’s break it down and see why it matters.

The Basics: How a Bourbon Mashbill Works

By law, bourbon’s mashbill must be at least 51% corn—that’s the foundation. But the real magic happens in the other 49%, where distillers get creative. The next biggest grain often defines the bourbon’s style. If it’s wheat, you’ve got a high-wheat bourbon. If it’s rye, it’s a high-rye bourbon. These choices shape the flavor—wheat tends to soften things up with sweet, mellow notes, while rye brings a bold, spicy kick. Knowing the mashbill can steer you toward bottles that match your taste.

Why Mashbills Matter: Finding Your Bourbon Sweet Spot

Take my own journey as an example. When I first got into bourbon, I fell hard for Maker’s Mark. A quick look at its mashbill revealed it’s a high-wheat bourbon. Armed with that info, I started exploring other high-wheat options—like W.L. Weller or Larceny—and found I loved their smooth, easy-drinking profiles. It’s like having a cheat code for picking winners! That said, I always encourage stepping outside your comfort zone. Tastes evolve, and surprises happen. Case in point: I’m a high-wheat guy, but Bardstown Origin Series, a high-rye bourbon, totally won me over with its unique depth.

High-Wheat vs. High-Rye: Which Bourbon Style Is for You?

So, where do you land—team high-wheat or high-rye? High-wheat bourbons (think Maker’s Mark or Old Fitzgerald) lean toward sweetness and subtlety, perfect for sipping neat. High-rye bourbons (like Bulleit or Four Roses Single Barrel) pack more spice and intensity, great for bold cocktails or adventurous palates. Knowing your mashbill preference can save you time and money—and maybe even lead you to a hidden gem.

What’s your go-to mashbill style? Share your favorite high-wheat or high-rye pour and rate it on the world’s best whiskey app, NEAT: Whiskey Finder! It’s the perfect spot to track your bourbon adventures and discover new bottles. Let’s hear your picks!