Wolf Point Bourbon 750ML is a small-batch straight bourbon from Chicago's Wolf Point Distilling, bottled at 46% ABV (92 proof) in a 750ml format. Built on a high-rye mashbill and aged a minimum of three years in full-size barrels, this bourbon punches above its weight with a rich, warming profile anchored by hazelnut, vanilla, and brown sugar. Quick Facts: ABV: 46% (92 Proof) | Origin: Chicago, Illinois | Minimum 3 Years Aged | Distillery: Wolf Point Distilling Production & Heritage Wolf Point Distilling is a Chicago-based craft distillery that hand-selects individual barrels of straight bourbon while simultaneously aging its own distillate on-site. The mashbill runs 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley — a rye-forward grain recipe that tilts the flavor toward spice and complexity rather than pure sweetness. Each barrel is aged at least three years in new charred American oak 53-gallon barrels, then loosely filtered to preserve body and flavor before bottling at 92 proof. The decision to use full-size barrels rather than the smaller cooperage common among craft operations gives the spirit a more gradual, integrated oak character. Tasting Notes Aroma: The nose opens with toasted hazelnut and caramel sweetness, followed by layers of vanilla and a subtle grain warmth. A gentle char note from the oak sits underneath, rounding out a genuinely inviting bouquet. Taste: The entry is rich and surprisingly full-bodied for a bourbon at this age, with brown sugar and vanilla flooding the palate immediately. At mid-palate, the 21% rye asserts itself with baking spice and a dry, nutty character. The balance between sweetness and spice stays remarkably even throughout. Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering oak tannin and a fading sweetness that recalls toffee. A trace of black pepper from the rye carries through to the very end. How to Drink Wolf Point Bourbon At 92 proof, this bourbon has enough structure to drink neat but also responds well to a single ice cube, which opens the vanilla and hazelnut aromas further. Its high-rye backbone makes it a natural fit for several classic cocktails: Old Fashioned — The brown sugar sweetness integrates seamlessly with bitters and a citrus peel, requiring little added sugar. Boulevardier — The rye spice and oak tannin hold their ground against Campari and sweet vermouth without being overpowered. Whiskey Sour — The nutty, caramel richness pairs naturally with fresh citrus, creating a balanced and textured sour. Best For Exploring the Chicago craft distilling scene beyond the usual suspects Bourbon drinkers who favor a spicier, rye-forward grain profile Building a home bar with distinctive small-batch American whiskey Gifting to a whiskey enthusiast who appreciates under-the-radar producers Frequently Asked Questions What does Wolf Point Bourbon taste like? Wolf Point Bourbon leads with hazelnut and brown sugar sweetness, balanced by rye-driven baking spice and a long, warming oak finish. It drinks richer and more full-bodied than its minimum three-year age statement might suggest. How does Wolf Point Bourbon compare to FEW Bourbon? Both are Illinois-made bourbons with high-rye mashbills, but Wolf Point uses a higher corn percentage (75% vs. FEW's roughly 70%) and bottles at a slightly higher proof, which tends to give it more weight and sweetness on the palate. FEW Bourbon, distilled in nearby Evanston, is estate-distilled from grain to glass, while Wolf Point currently hand-selects sourced barrels as it matures its own distillate. Is Wolf Point Bourbon good for sipping neat? Yes — the 92-proof bottling strength and loose filtration preserve enough flavor intensity and texture for neat sipping without excessive heat. A splash of water can further coax out the vanilla and hazelnut notes. Where is Wolf Point Bourbon made? Wolf Point Bourbon is produced by Wolf Point Distilling in Chicago, Illinois. The distillery selects and bottles individual barrels of straight bourbon aged in new charred American oak cooperage. What foods pair well with Wolf Point Bourbon? The brown sugar and hazelnut profile pairs well with smoked brisket or pulled pork, where the sweetness complements char and smoke. Pecan pie and dark chocolate desserts echo the nutty, caramel character. Aged cheddar provides a savory counterpoint to the bourbon's sweetness, and candied bacon works as an indulgent appetizer match. What sizes does Wolf Point Bourbon come in? Wolf Point Bourbon is available in the standard 750ml bottle size. Is Wolf Point Bourbon worth the price? Wolf Point Bourbon positions in the mid-range craft bourbon tier, and its 92-proof bottling strength, full-size barrel aging, and loose filtration give it a level of character that justifies a modest premium over entry-level bourbons. For drinkers interested in Chicago craft whiskey with real depth, it represents solid value. Why Wolf Point Bourbon? What distinguishes Wolf Point Bourbon in a crowded bourbon market is its specific combination of a high-rye mashbill, full-size 53-gallon barrel aging, and loose filtration — three production choices that prioritize flavor density over ease of production. The 21% rye content gives it a spicier, more complex grain signature than the majority of bourbons in its price tier, which typically run closer to 10-15% rye. The decision to age exclusively in standard 53-gallon cooperage, rather than the smaller barrels favored by many craft distilleries for faster turnaround, results in a more integrated and nuanced oak influence. For anyone building a bourbon collection that goes beyond the usual Kentucky names, Wolf Point represents Chicago's growing credibility in American whiskey.
