In the world of bourbon, few names are as revered as Weller. Produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery, the Weller brand is a storied one that commands respect and admiration among whiskey enthusiasts. Weller 12, often dubbed the “poor man’s Pappy,” stands out for its smooth, wheated bourbon profile and connection to the legendary Pappy Van Winkle line. In this article, we will delve deep into Weller 12’s origins, its taste profile, the production process, comparisons with other bourbons, and why it has earned its coveted status in the bourbon world.
The History of Weller Bourbon
The Weller brand traces its roots to William Larue Weller, a distiller in Kentucky who was among the first to experiment with wheated bourbon. Unlike traditional bourbons that use rye as a secondary grain, Weller decided to use wheat, which results in a softer, smoother profile. William Larue Weller’s innovation eventually led to the creation of some of the most sought-after bourbons in the world, including Weller 12.
The connection between Weller and Pappy Van Winkle came about when Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, the founder of Stitzel-Weller Distillery, adopted Weller’s wheated bourbon recipe to craft his own premium line. While Weller 12 and Pappy Van Winkle share many similarities, they are distinct bourbons with their own unique characteristics.
What Makes Weller 12 Special?
Weller 12 stands out for several reasons, but its main distinguishing factor is its wheated mash bill. While most bourbons use corn, rye, and malted barley, Weller 12 replaces rye with wheat, creating a sweeter, less spicy flavor. The use of wheat allows for a softer mouthfeel and a longer finish, making it an appealing option for those who prefer a mellower whiskey.
Aging plays a crucial role in defining the character of Weller 12. It is aged for 12 years in new, charred oak barrels, which allows it to develop a deep complexity. The extended aging process imparts rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak, while also allowing the bourbon to retain its smoothness.
The Taste Profile of Weller 12
Weller 12’s tasting notes are often described as a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and oak. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when sipping this remarkable bourbon:
- Nose: On the nose, Weller 12 greets you with a harmonious blend of vanilla, caramel, and honey. Subtle hints of oak and cinnamon also emerge, giving it a warm, inviting aroma.
- Palate: The first sip of Weller 12 offers a soft, velvety texture that coats the palate. Flavors of rich caramel, vanilla, and dark fruit immediately stand out, followed by a delicate spice from the oak and a hint of leather.
- Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with the sweetness of the wheat lingering alongside notes of toasted oak and a slight nuttiness. The overall experience is balanced and smooth, making Weller 12 a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
The Production Process of Weller 12
The journey from grain to glass for Weller 12 is a meticulous one. Here’s a look at the key steps involved in crafting this exceptional bourbon:
- Mash Bill: Weller 12’s mash bill consists of 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley. This high corn content gives the bourbon its characteristic sweetness, while the wheat adds smoothness and depth. The malted barley aids in fermentation by providing natural enzymes.
- Fermentation: The mash is fermented for several days to allow the yeast to convert sugars into alcohol. The fermentation process is carefully monitored to ensure that the desired flavors develop.
- Distillation: After fermentation, the mash is distilled in copper stills. This process separates alcohol from the mash and refines the bourbon’s flavor.
- Aging: Once distilled, the bourbon is placed in new, charred oak barrels for aging. Weller 12 is aged for a minimum of 12 years, during which it absorbs the flavors of the wood and develops its complex profile.
- Bottling: After aging, the bourbon is carefully filtered and bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV). Weller 12’s aging process ensures that it retains its smooth, refined taste.
Weller 12 and Pappy Van Winkle: A Comparison
Weller 12 and Pappy Van Winkle are often compared due to their shared mash bill and distillery origins. However, there are distinct differences between the two.
- Price: One of the most significant differences is price. While Weller 12 is relatively affordable, often retailing for around $50 (though secondary market prices can be much higher), Pappy Van Winkle can fetch several thousand dollars, depending on the release and age statement.
- Availability: Weller 12 is difficult to find, but not as rare as Pappy Van Winkle, which is notoriously hard to come by. Many bourbon enthusiasts seek out Weller 12 as a more accessible alternative to Pappy.
- Flavor Profile: While both bourbons share a similar mash bill, Weller 12 has a slightly less intense flavor profile compared to Pappy Van Winkle. Pappy’s older age statements often result in a more concentrated, robust flavor, but Weller 12 offers a similarly rich, balanced experience at a fraction of the cost.
The Popularity and Scarcity of Weller 12
Weller 12’s reputation has skyrocketed in recent years, thanks in part to its association with Pappy Van Winkle and its status as a well-aged wheated bourbon. The bourbon’s limited availability, however, has made it a sought-after item, with many enthusiasts finding it challenging to locate on store shelves.
This scarcity is driven by a combination of factors, including its long aging process, increasing demand, and Buffalo Trace Distillery’s decision to release limited quantities to ensure quality. As a result, many liquor stores have implemented lotteries or waitlists for Weller 12, and prices on the secondary market can easily surpass $300 or more.
Despite these challenges, Weller 12 remains a top choice for those looking for a premium bourbon experience without the exorbitant price tag of Pappy Van Winkle.
How to Enjoy Weller 12
There are several ways to enjoy Weller 12, depending on your personal preferences. Here are a few popular methods:
- Neat: Weller 12’s smoothness and complexity make it ideal for sipping neat, without any additional water or ice. This allows you to fully appreciate its rich flavors and long finish.
- On the Rocks: Adding a few ice cubes can slightly mellow the bourbon and bring out different flavor notes. As the ice melts, it dilutes the bourbon, which can reveal subtle nuances in the whiskey’s profile.
- With a Splash of Water: Some whiskey enthusiasts prefer to add a splash of water to Weller 12, as it opens up the aromas and flavors, making the bourbon more approachable without diluting it too much.
- In a Cocktail: While many would consider it sacrilege to mix Weller 12 in a cocktail, its versatility makes it a great choice for classic bourbon-based cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan.
Collectibility and Investment Potential
As bourbon continues to grow in popularity, Weller 12 has become a sought-after bottle for collectors and investors alike. Limited availability, a connection to the highly coveted Pappy Van Winkle line, and its reputation for exceptional quality have made Weller 12 a valuable commodity in the bourbon world.
For those looking to add Weller 12 to their collection, it’s essential to keep an eye on local liquor stores, online retailers, and bourbon forums, where bottles occasionally become available. However, collectors should be cautious about purchasing from the secondary market, as prices can be inflated, and there is always a risk of counterfeit bottles.
Conclusion
Weller 12 is more than just a bourbon – it’s a testament to the art and craftsmanship of whiskey making. With its smooth, wheated profile, rich flavor, and long finish, it has earned its place among the finest bourbons in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or new to the world of whiskey, Weller 12 offers an experience that is both accessible and extraordinary.
As its popularity continues to rise, Weller 12 may become harder to find, but for those lucky enough to acquire a bottle, it’s worth savoring every sip. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Weller 12 is a bourbon that deserves a special place in your collection and your glass.