General W.L. Weller Background:
-
Wheated Bourbon: All Weller bourbons are "wheated," meaning they use wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye.1 This generally results in a softer, sweeter, and smoother flavor profile compared to traditional high-rye bourbons.
-
Buffalo Trace Distillery: Weller is produced at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, known for other sought-after brands like Pappy Van Winkle and Eagle Rare.2 This connection often leads to comparisons and high expectations.
The W.L. Weller Collection (Left to Right in Image):
-
W.L. Weller Single Barrel:
-
Description: Each bottle is drawn from a single, carefully selected barrel, meaning variations in flavor are expected.3 This allows for unique expressions of the Weller mash bill.
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Vanilla, caramel, honey, with hints of oak and spice.
-
Palate: Sweet caramel and vanilla dominate, followed by subtle notes of dried fruit (cherry, fig), baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), and a gentle oakiness.
-
Finish: Long, warm, and sweet with a lingering spice.
-
W.L. Weller C.Y.P.B. (Craft Your Perfect Bourbon):
-
Description: This release allows bourbon enthusiasts to "craft" their perfect bourbon profile through an online interactive experience, influencing aspects like mash bill, warehouse placement, and aging.4
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Similar to other Wellers, expect vanilla, caramel, and honey, but with potential variations based on the "crafting" process.
-
Palate: Sweet and smooth, with potential for more fruit-forward or spicier notes depending on the chosen profile.
-
Finish: Warm and lingering, reflecting the specific characteristics of the chosen profile.
-
W.L. Weller Full Proof:
-
Description: This bourbon is bottled at its original barrel proof, meaning it hasn't been diluted with water. This results in a bolder and more intense flavor experience.
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Rich and robust, with concentrated notes of caramel, vanilla, dark fruit (plum, raisin), and oak.5
-
Palate: Full-bodied and intense, with a powerful sweetness balanced by oak, spice, and potentially a hint of leather or tobacco.
-
Finish: Long and warming, with a lingering spiciness and a touch of dryness.
-
W.L. Weller 12 Year Old:
-
Description: Aged for 12 years, this expression develops a deeper complexity and richness compared to younger Wellers.
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Elegantly layered with notes of vanilla, caramel, honey, toasted oak, and a hint of stone fruit.
-
Palate: Smooth and refined, with a balanced sweetness and a subtle spiciness. Notes of dried fruit, baking spices, and a delicate oakiness shine through.
-
Finish: Long, warm, and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness and a gentle oak influence.
-
W.L. Weller Antique 107:
-
Description: Bottled at 107 proof (53.5% ABV), this expression offers a bolder and spicier take on the Weller profile.
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Rich and inviting, with notes of caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus peel.
-
Palate: Full-bodied and flavorful, with a noticeable spiciness complementing the sweetness. Notes of oak, leather, and dark fruit add complexity.
-
Finish: Long and warming, with a lingering spiciness and a touch of sweetness.
-
W.L. Weller Special Reserve:
-
Description: The entry-level Weller, offering a taste of the wheated profile at an affordable price point.
-
Tasting Notes (General):
-
Nose: Sweet and gentle, with notes of caramel, vanilla, honey, and a hint of oak.
-
Palate: Smooth and approachable, with a soft sweetness and a subtle spiciness. Notes of dried fruit and baking spices provide depth.
-
Finish: Medium-length and smooth, with a lingering sweetness and a gentle warmth.