Today marks the 200th birthday of William Larue Weller, and in celebration, Buffalo Trace has introduced two new expressions to its Weller whiskey lineup. The Weller collection is highly sought after among bourbon enthusiasts, known for its exceptional quality.
The longstanding range includes favorites like Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique, and Weller 12, but has expanded to feature newer releases such as Weller C.Y.P.B. (2018), Weller Full Proof (2019), and Weller Single Barrel (2020), among others. The latest additions are Weller Millennium Batch #2 and Weller 18.
Weller Millennium Batch #2 is a blend that includes components distilled in 2001, 2003, and 2006. This batch is distinctive, maintaining the blend of wheated bourbon and wheat whiskey introduced in the first batch. The updated label features a gold-plated info card, setting it apart visually from its predecessor.
Weller 18 is notable as the oldest age-stated product in the Weller family and features a full wheat whiskey profile. It will be available in select international airports, making it the first travel-exclusive offering from Buffalo Trace.
I had the privilege of tasting both new expressions recently and am excited to share reviews of these alongside the entire Weller lineup.
Weller Special Reserve
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $32
Nose: Sweet honeysuckle and corn notes.
Palate: Floral flavors dominate, with clover honey and light vanilla.
Finish: Flavors linger, providing a mellow exit.
Bottom Line: While not my favorite, it offers a glimpse of the brand’s potential with better aging and proof.
Daniel Weller
ABV: 47%
Average Price: $3,000
Nose: Grain-forward with strawberries and herbal notes.
Palate: Sweet with lively fruit flavors.
Finish: Moderately dry but inviting for additional sips.
Bottom Line: A unique bourbon, though overshadowed by others in the lineup.
Weller 18
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $500
Nose: Hazelnuts and cherry cordials.
Palate: Dates, clove, and smooth texture.
Finish: Medium-length with vanilla and wheat toast notes.
Bottom Line: Distinct ebb and flow of flavors, appealing for bourbon fans.
Weller Single Barrel
ABV: 48.5%
Average Price: $700
Nose: Red apples with savory notes.
Palate: Juicy fruit balanced by oak notes.
Finish: Sweet caramel and black pepper spice.
Bottom Line: A solid, if not groundbreaking, single-barrel bourbon.
Weller Full Proof
ABV: 57%
Average Price: $250
Nose: Cherry, caramel, and spicy notes.
Palate: A robust blend of diverse flavors; a bold experience.
Finish: Lengthy yet somewhat drying.
Bottom Line: Full of character but might challenge some palates.
Weller 12-Year
ABV: 45%
Average Price: $280
Nose: Brown sugar and black tea.
Palate: Rich and flavorful with oak undertones.
Finish: Closing with an oak presence; complex yet pleasant.
Bottom Line: Rich offering that showcases maturity, but has potential for more.
Weller C.Y.P.B.
ABV: 47.5%
Average Price: $300
Nose: White chocolate and cherries.
Palate: Sweet and refined flavors; well-crafted.
Finish: Satisfying, though slightly shorter than desired.
Bottom Line: A strong representation of Weller’s quality; highly enjoyable.
Weller Antique 107-Proof
ABV: 53.5%
Average Price: $59
Nose: Candied apple and honey.
Palate: Balances sweet and tart flavors.
Finish: Rich stone fruit notes with a pleasant medium length.
Bottom Line: A versatile and often underrated choice; excels in blind tastings.
Weller Millennium Batch #1 (2024)
ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500
Nose: Fruit-forward with wheat notes.
Palate: Rich flavors of honey and cherries; luxurious mouthfeel.
Finish: Prolonged and satisfying; a true treat.
Bottom Line: A rare gem that exemplifies the luxurious side of bourbon.
Weller Millennium Batch #2 (2025)
ABV: 49.5%
Average Price: $7,500
Nose: Rich and inviting fruity aromas.
Palate: Sweet with layers of flavor; well-balanced.
Finish: Exciting and dynamic with lingering spice.
Bottom Line: An upgrade over its predecessor; a standout experience.
William Larue Weller Bourbon (2025)
ABV: 62.9%
Average Price: $1,800
Nose: Complex aromas of caramel and cherries.
Palate: Rich and well-developed flavors; deeply satisfying.
Finish: Lengthy with a mix of sweet and spice.
Bottom Line: A definitive showcase of bourbon excellence; continues to impress.
As whiskey enthusiasts celebrate Weller’s legacy, these new releases further enhance the rich tradition of quality bourbon, making them remarkable additions to any collection.
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