Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 12 Years 750ml

Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged 12 Years 750ml

Weller Bourbon is a distinguished brand of wheated bourbon whiskey produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The brand is named after William Larue Weller, who was a pioneer in the bourbon industry during the 19th century. He is credited with creating one of the first wheated bourbons, which substitutes wheat for rye in the mash bill, resulting in a smoother and sweeter flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons.

Historical Significance

The origins of Weller Bourbon date back to 1849 when William Larue Weller began producing his unique style of bourbon. His innovative approach set a new standard in the industry, leading to the establishment of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, which became famous for crafting premium bourbons. Over time, Weller Bourbon has evolved through various ownerships and production methods but has consistently maintained its reputation for quality.

The Wheated Mash Bill

One of the defining characteristics of Weller Bourbon is its wheated mash bill, which typically consists of approximately 70% corn, 16-20% wheat, and 10-14% malted barley. This unique formulation contributes to its signature smoothness and sweetness, making it appealing to both novice drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

Product Lineup

Weller offers several expressions that cater to different palates and preferences:

• Weller Special Reserve: Known as “The Original Wheated Bourbon,” this expression is bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV) and features tasting notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla.
• Weller Antique 107: Bottled at 107 proof (53.5% ABV), this bourbon delivers a robust flavor profile with rich caramel and dark fruit notes.
• Weller 12 Year Old: Aged for twelve years and bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), this expression is celebrated for its complexity and depth, featuring flavors like butterscotch and toasted almonds.
• Weller Full Proof: This non-chill filtered bourbon is bottled at barrel strength (114 proof or 57% ABV) and offers intense flavors with a rich mouthfeel.
• Weller C.Y.P.B. (Craft Your Perfect Bourbon): A crowd-sourced project that allows consumers to create their ideal bourbon recipe; it is bottled at 95 proof (47.5% ABV).
• Weller Single Barrel: Each bottle comes from a single barrel, ensuring unique flavor profiles that vary from bottle to bottle.

Collectibility and Market Demand

Due to its limited production runs and high demand among collectors, many Weller expressions are difficult to find on retail shelves. The popularity has led to increased secondary market prices for sought-after bottles like Weller 12 Year Old and William Larue Weller. Enthusiasts often refer to Weller as “Poor Man’s Pappy” due to its similarities with the highly coveted Pappy Van Winkle line.

Conclusion

In summary, Weller Bourbon stands out in the competitive landscape of American whiskey due to its historical significance, unique wheated mash bill, diverse product lineup, and strong collector interest. Its commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures that each expression offers an exceptional tasting experience that resonates with bourbon lovers around the world.