Step into the world of Weller Bourbon, where tradition meets craftsmanship and each sip tells a story. In this blog, we embark on a journey through the illustrious Whiskey Weller Bourbon lineup, exploring the nuances of Weller Bourbon, Weller Special Reserve, and Weller Antique. Join us as we delve into the best Weller bottles, meticulously ranked to guide aficionados and enthusiasts in their quest for the perfect pour.
Table of Contents
Weller Bourbon is considered special and stands out in the world of bourbon for several reasons
Wheated Bourbon Mash Bill
One distinctive feature of Weller Bourbon is its use of a wheat mash bill, meaning it contains a higher proportion of wheat in the grain recipe compared to traditional bourbons. This gives Weller a softer and smoother flavor profile.
Shared Heritage with Pappy Van Winkel
Weller shares a historical connection with the renowned Pappy Van Winkle bourbon. Both Weller and Pappy Van Winkle are produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and they share a similar wheat mash bill. Weller is often referred to as the “poor man’s Pappy” due to the similarity in the mash bill and the fact that Weller bourbons are more readily available and affordable.
Aged Bourbon Without the High Price
Weller bourbons, particularly the Weller Special Reserve, Antique 107, and 12-Year-Old, offer well-aged expressions at relatively affordable prices. This makes them highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts looking for quality and depth without the premium price tag.
Consistent Quality
Weller has gained a reputation for delivering consistent quality across its range of expressions. The brand has amassed a dedicated fan base that appreciates the reliable and enjoyable flavor profiles offered by Weller Bourbons.
Limited Edition Releases
Weller occasionally releases limited edition expressions and single barrel releases. These limited releases, often part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, generate significant excitement among collectors and enthusiasts, contributing to the brand’s special status.
Smooth and Approachable
The wheat mash bill imparts a smooth and approachable character to Weller bourbons. This makes them appealing to a wide range of bourbon drinkers, from those new to bourbon to seasoned enthusiasts appreciative of a milder and more nuanced flavor profile.
Cult Following
Weller Bourbon has developed a cult following over the years, with enthusiasts actively seeking out different expressions and engaging in bottle hunting. The brand’s popularity has surged, contributing to its status as a special and sought-after bourbon.
In summary, Weller Bourbon’s specialness lies in its wheat mash bill, historical ties to Pappy Van Winkel, affordability relative to its age, consistent quality, and the excitement generated by limited releases. These factors collectively contribute to Weller’s unique position in the bourbon landscape. It is known for producing a variety of whiskey and wine expressions, each with its own unique characteristics.
Here are some of the different types of Weller whiskey
Weller Special Reserve
- A wheat bourbon with a softer, smoother profile. Bottled at 90 proof.
- Known for its balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of fruit.
Weller Antique 107
- A higher-proof bourbon, bottled at 107 proof.
- Offers a more robust and intense flavor profile with notes of spice, honey, and a longer finish.
Weller 12-Year-Old
- A well-aged bourbon matured for 12 years.
- Bottled at a slightly lower proof than Antique, providing a smoother and more refined taste.
- Known for its rich, complex flavors with hints of dried fruit and oak.
Weller Full Proof
- Bottled at its original barrel proof without any dilution.
- Offers a bold and unfiltered taste, showcasing the full intensity of the whiskey.
- Notable for its higher alcohol content, typically well above 100 proof.
William Larue Weller (Part of Buffalo Trace Antique Collection)
- An annual release as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.
- A wheat bourbon with no age statement but often features well-aged whiskey.
- Renowned for its high proof and exceptional depth of flavor, with notes of dark fruits, chocolate, and spices.
Certainly! Here are recipes for three classic whiskey cocktails:
Whiskey Sour
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
- Ice
- Garnish: Lemon slice or cherry
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake well for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rock glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon slice or cherry.
Old Fashioned
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Ice
- Place the sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass.
- Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube.
- Muddle the sugar and bitters together.
- Add ice to the glass.
- Pour the whiskey over the ice.
- Stir gently.
Express the oil from an orange peel over the drink and drop it into the glass as a garnish.
Mint Julep
- 2 1/2 oz (75 ml) bourbon
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves1/2 oz (15 ml)
- simple syrup
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprig for garnish
- In a julep cup or glass, muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup.
- Fill the cup with crushed ice.
- Pour the bourbon over the ice.
- Stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
Remember to adjust the ingredient quantities to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to experiment with different types of whiskey for variations in flavor. Enjoy responsibly classic whiskey cocktails!
Conclusion
It’s important to note that the availability of certain Weller expressions may vary by region and can be influenced by the distillery’s production and distribution strategies. Additionally, new releases and special editions may be introduced over time, adding to the diversity of the whiskey Weller portfolio.
