W.L. Weller Bourbon is a name that has stood the test of time—and for a good reason. It's a Weller brand built on tradition, with roots that go as far back as the 1800s. That's what makes it one of the finest bourbons you can buy and a standout original wheated bourbon whiskey.
William Larue Weller (the man behind the brand) made a huge impact by substituting wheat for rye in bourbon, pioneering what is now known as wheated bourbons—a little sweeter and smoother than its traditional rye counterpart. This innovation defines the original wheated bourbon character that sets the Weller line apart.
What Makes W.L. Weller Unique?
So, what makes the W.L. Weller collection different from other bourbons? Well, the secret is actually in its mash bill. More specifically, it's based on the fact that the bourbon uses wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye.
Most bourbons add rye to the spirit to enhance the flavor. But William Larue Weller bourbon has a much softer and smoother taste, thanks to substituting wheat in the mash bill. It's still full of flavor, but it's not as sharp or spicy as some other American bourbon whiskeys.
The recipe for wheated bourbon has been around since the 19th century, and it's one of the reasons bourbon enthusiasts adore the entire Weller lineup. Plus, it's produced by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, known for crafting some of the finest whiskey brands in the world. You can find Weller products as part of Buffalo Trace's Antique Collection, which includes the highly sought-after Weller Antique 107 and Weller Special Reserve.
How Is W.L. Weller Aged?
W.L. Weller takes its time with aging, since the goal is to let the whiskey slowly develop its flavors in the barrel. The bourbon is aged in new, charred oak Weller barrels, which is standard for most bourbons. However, it's the careful monitoring of the spirit in specific warehouses where seasonal temperature variations influence maturation that makes all the difference.
For example, the 2023 William Larue Weller is kept on the second and third floors of the warehouse, where it is aged for over eight years and beyond, helping to bring out the bourbon's rich flavors. This aging process contributes to why the Weller Full Proof and Weller CYPB (Craft Your Perfect Barrel) expressions are so prized among enthusiasts and collectors.
What Is The Flavor Profile of W.L. Weller?
When you first open a bottle of William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon, you'll get a whiff of aromatic sweetness. You may smell caramel corn and a hint of toffee—but there are also stronger notes, like fresh leather and chocolate undertones that complement the wheated mash bill.
When you get a taste, it's usually warm and rich with flavors like marshmallow, salted almonds, vanilla bean, dark fruits (like figs and dates), and toasted oak. The warming finish is just as smooth, with a touch of baking spice and a hint of maple syrup that lingers on your tongue—qualities that have earned the brand multiple double gold awards in spirits competitions.
What Is the Proof Of W.L. Weller?
W.L. Weller doesn't shy away from its strength. For example, the 2023 W.L. Weller is bottled at 133.6 barrel proof, making it a high-proof bourbon that packs a punch. This Full Proof expression is a favorite among those who appreciate bold flavors without sacrificing the smoothness typical of wheated bourbons.
Still, even at high proof, this bourbon doesn't feel overwhelming. This is because the aging and warehouse temperature variations help to keep it smooth, a hallmark of the Weller family legacy established by William Larue Weller and carried on by his descendants. The entire lineup, including the Weller Single Barrel and Weller Antique, reflects this dedication to quality and tradition.
Collectors and enthusiasts often compare Weller barrels to those used in the famous Pappy Van Winkle line, as both share a similar mash bill. This connection has driven secondary prices up, especially in markets like Ohio. The Weller label continues to be highly sought after.
If you're looking to shop for a bottle, consider the entire Weller line to experience the perfect bourbon that balances heritage, flavor, and innovation. Whether you prefer the approachable Weller Special Reserve or the robust Weller Antique 107, this brand offers something for every bourbon lover.
Finally, it’s no surprise that W.L. Weller bourbons have been praised by experts like Jim Murray's Whisky Bible, further cementing their status among the finest whiskey selections available today.