The 101 of W.L. Weller

May 3, 2024
Well, well, well. What the well do we have here? Well, my well-respected friends, it’s a well-researched blog article all about, well… Weller! That’s right, the highly sought-after bourbon brand that you can’t quit despite some bottles costing three arms and two legs! Certainly, there are a few bottles of this special elixir that won’t demand a whole month’s paycheck, and we’re here to go through their releases and correlating prices just for you. Let’s get on with this sWell story!

Weller’s History

The Weller brand has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it was founded by William Larue Weller. Known for its high-quality wheated bourbon, the brand gained prominence for its smooth and flavorful whiskies. Weller's legacy continued through the years, notably during Prohibition when it was one of the few distilleries allowed to operate for medicinal purposes. Today, Weller is revered for its range of expressions, including the highly sought-after Weller Antique 107 and Weller Special Reserve. The brand's popularity stems from its exceptional taste, affordable price point, and association with the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery. Limited availability and high demand for its bourbons have further fueled its allure among whiskey enthusiasts, making Weller a cherished name in the world of bourbon.

Interesting Facts About the Weller Brand

The Weller brand has an intriguing connection to another bourbon icon, Pappy Van Winkle. Both brands share a similar mash bill, with Weller often referred to as the "poor man's Pappy" due to its comparable taste profile at a more accessible price point. This association has contributed to Weller's cult following among bourbon aficionados.

Weller also has a unique history in its role during Prohibition. While many distilleries were forced to close their doors, Weller was granted a license to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes. This allowed the brand to continue operating legally and maintain its production capabilities, laying the foundation for its enduring legacy.

What Weller Bottles Do We Recommend?



Well, I mean we’ll compile this list in ascending order, meaning that the first is most affordable, while the last will be… how shall we put this? Grandiose collector’s items.

W.L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey - Weller Special Reserve is revered among bourbon aficionados for its rich and complex flavor profile, crafted with care and precision to delight the senses with every sip. Its smooth texture, complemented by notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, creates a harmonious blend that embodies the essence of Kentucky bourbon tradition. Featuring a mash bill with a high proportion of wheat, W.L. Weller Special Reserve offers a distinctive taste experience that sets it apart from other bourbons.

For those seeking the ultimate W.L. Weller Special Reserve experience, a variety of combos and bundles offer opportunities to explore different expressions and pairings. From the convenience of a 1-liter bottle to the value-packed 3-pack and 6-pack combos, there's an option to suit every preference and occasion. Indulge in a taste of luxury with the W.L. Weller Special Reserve X Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon combo, which combines the smoothness of Weller with the complexity of Blanton's. Other combinations, such as the Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Bourbon x W.L. Weller Special Reserve and the W.L. Weller Special Reserve X Sazerac Rye X Eagle Rare 10 Yr Bourbon, provide a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a bundle, W.L. Weller Special Reserve promises a journey of discovery and delight for bourbon enthusiasts everywhere.

W.L. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon Whiskey - The Antique 107 showcases Weller's heritage and craftsmanship. With its bold flavor and higher proof, it offers a memorable tasting experience, revealing layers of caramel, vanilla, and spice in every sip. Available in 3-packs and 6-packs, it allows enthusiasts to stock up on this beloved expression for any occasion. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, W.L. Weller Antique 107 captivates whiskey lovers with its depth of flavor and timeless appeal.

W.L. Weller 12 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey - The 12 epitomizes bourbon craftsmanship and expertise. With its distinguished age statement, this bourbon offers a refined taste experience that delights the senses. Each sip reveals rich caramel, toasted oak, and subtle spices, balanced by a velvety smoothness. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, W.L. Weller 12 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey is a connoisseur's delight, perfect for special occasions or sharing with friends.

W.L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon Whiskey - Weller’s Full Proof is the bold standout in the Weller lineup. Crafted to perfection, this full proof expression boasts a robust flavor profile that demands attention. With its higher proof and uncompromising character, each sip reveals rich caramel, dark chocolate, and warm spices, culminating in a satisfying finish. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, W.L. Weller Full Proof makes a statement with its depth and complexity, a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts seeking bold experiences.

W.L. Weller C.Y.P.B. Bourbon Whiskey - Weller’s CYPB embodies innovation and community in the bourbon world. Created through the "Craft Your Perfect Bourbon" program, it reflects the input and preferences of bourbon enthusiasts. With a unique flavor profile, it offers a delightful blend of sweet caramel, honey, and hints of toasted oak, resulting in a smooth and approachable whiskey. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, this bourbon celebrates collaboration and individuality, making it a cherished addition to any collection. Experience the essence of community and craftsmanship with W.L. Weller C.Y.P.B. Bourbon Whiskey, reflecting the passion of bourbon aficionados everywhere.

W.L. Weller Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey - Weller’s Single Barrel embodies craftsmanship and individuality in the Weller lineup. Hand-selected from the finest barrels, each bottle offers a unique expression of the distillery's artistry. With a rich flavor profile featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, it creates an exceptional tasting experience. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, W.L. Weller Single Barrel invites enthusiasts to savor the nuanced flavors of each barrel. Elevate your whiskey journey with W.L. Weller Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a testament to the tradition of excellence that defines the Weller brand.

William Larue Weller Bourbon Whiskey 2023 Release - The 2023 release is a testament to Weller's legacy and innovation. Crafted with precision, this limited-edition release offers an extraordinary tasting experience. With a rich flavor profile featuring notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and dried fruits, each sip transports enthusiasts to new heights of whiskey appreciation. Highly sought-after, this release represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and quality in the bourbon world. Whether savored neat or shared among friends, it promises to leave a lasting impression with its depth and character. Experience the magic of William Larue Weller Bourbon Whiskey 2023 Release, a true masterpiece of the distiller's art.



Weller Millennium Blended Whiskey - An intriguing tidbit of information has recently leaked, intentionally or not. Thanks whistleblowers! Not much is known about this future release other than what we can glean from the leaked label. The rear label suggests a blend of 18, 19, 21, and 24-year-old bourbon, potentially making this one of the oldest Weller products to date, barring any tanking of the bourbon in previous years. The average age of the batch clocks in at 20 years old. This will inevitably draw comparisons to Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year, with the added bonus of a proof just shy of 100, at 99 proof. That's nearly 9 more proof points than Pappy's 20, adding to its appeal. Only time (or further leaks) will tell. Stay tuned here!