Interesting...sounds like the batting felt bumpy inside the quilt though, so that's not just from it being wrong side up.
I've used W&N several times, and I never have paid attention to which side is "up", and never had any bearding problems. Just lucky, maybe? Or maybe it has to do with a longarm's speed? My DSM only goes 1,000 spm, I think longarm machines can go faster than that(??) I've also used the Pellon "Nature's Touch" batting from Joann's that's usually really cheap and it's fine - very similar to W&N. They often go on sale for $14 for a queen size and who can beat that? It's really good for lightweight throws where I don't want a lot of heft but still want cotton.
I like how far apart I can quilt with W&N. I don't usually go that far apart but it's nice not to worry about it.