Introduction to Weller
The W.L. Weller 12 Year Old is a highly rated straight bourbon from Buffalo Trace in Kentucky. It uses wheat instead of rye so it’s smoother. Aged 12 years in new charred oak barrels, it has aromas and flavors of wheat, cherries, plums, cinnamon and vanilla with a long oaky finish. Balanced and complex, it has a full mouthfeel. Originally priced around $40-$70 but now scarce so prices have gone up but still a favorite among bourbon fans.
Buffalo Trace Distillery: Home of W.L. Weller
The Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky is the birthplace of W.L. Weller 12 Year. One of the oldest operating distilleries in the US and known for making great bourbons. Legacy is a commitment to traditional methods combined with modern techniques to balance heritage and innovation.
Distillation Process and Techniques
Buffalo Trace uses pot stills and column stills to make W.L. Weller 12 Year. They focus on temperature control and timing to preserve the characteristics of the grains used especially the wheated mash bill. The bourbon goes into the barrels at 114 proof, a bit higher than some others so it can absorb more wood character.
Fun Fact: The higher entry proof contributes to the robust flavor of W.L. Weller which continues to develop during the 12 year aging process.
Type, Age, Proof
W.L. Weller 12 Year is a straight bourbon whiskey. Aged 12 years in new charred American white oak barrels which impart deep layered flavors. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV) for balance and drinkability.
Aromas: First Impression
The nose of W.L. Weller 12 Year tells its own story. Lanolin and almond upfront then caramel, vanilla and charred oak. Dig deeper and fruit tree blossoms, cherries and a hint of cinnamon come out. A bouquet for bourbon fans and newcomers.
Key Notes:
- Primary: Caramel, vanilla, charred oak.
- Secondary: Sweet cherries, plums, cinnamon, white pepper.
- Additional: Graham cracker, chocolate cream.
Flavor Profile: What to Taste
From the first sip W.L. Weller 12 Year is warm and wheat forward with subtle sweetness. Mid palate maraschino cherries and plums with cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of vanilla. Rich buttery mouthfeel with cheesecake on a graham cracker crust.
Appearance: Forms a thick crown in the glass with thick legs that stick.
Flavor:
- Mid Palate: Cherries, blueberries, cinnamon, nutmeg.
- Underlying sweetness: Simple syrup, brown sugar, maple sugar.
- Wood: Light toasted.
The Finish: Long and Satisfying
The finish is where W.L. Weller 12 Year really shines. It’s long, oaky and smooth with a warmth that lingers. Dark molasses and charred oak add depth. Leather and tobacco too. It’s complex and mature.
Notable Finish Notes:
- Lasting Notes: Dark berries, cinnamon, black pepper and a hint of vanilla.
- Texture: Soft, wheaty punch.
Color
The deep bronze color is a result of 12 years in oak. The color is a promise of the flavors developed over time.
Body and Mouthfeel
Buttery, thick and viscous. Irregularly spaced legs in the glass. The ‘crown’ at the top of the liquid is a sign of quality and aging.
Mash Bill and Aging
The mash bill for W.L. Weller 12 Year is not disclosed but is estimated to be 70% corn, 14-16% wheat and 14-16% malted barley. Aged in new charred American white oak barrels adds flavor and toasted wood and spice notes.
Production and Market
MSRP: $40-$70. Quality and aging justified the price. But scarcity has driven the price up on the secondary market to over $300.
Collectibility and Market
W.L. Weller 12 Year is more than a drink, it’s a collector’s item. Enthusiasts call it a “Poor Man’s Pappy” due to its wheated recipe like Pappy Van Winkle. Limited production and high demand means it’s a staple on many collector’s shelves.
Reviews
Critics and drinkers love it. Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 93.5 and Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal says it’s “lusciously toasty”. User reviews say it’s smooth, complex and worth the search.
Pairing and Serving
Neat or On the Rocks
If you want to experience the full flavor, drink neat. Chilling with ice or a whiskey stone will mellow the edges and make it a great companion for a quiet evening.
Cocktails
The rich flavors make it perfect for classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. The sweetness and depth will add a premium to these classics.
Food Pairing
Cheesecake or dark chocolate cake. Grilled meats or robust cheeses. Oak and fruit will balance the spice and sweetness.
Conclusion
W.L. Weller 12 Year embodies tradition, innovation, and the legacy of its creator. With its unique wheated mash bill, expert distillation, and aging process, it stands as a distinguished choice in the world of bourbon. Whether for sipping, collecting, or sharing stories, this bourbon deserves its place in any enthusiast’s collection
FAQs
What is the proof of W.L. Weller 12 Year?
The bourbon is bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), striking a balance between robust flavors and approachable strength.
How long is W.L. Weller 12 Year aged?
As its name suggests, W.L. Weller 12 Year is aged for a full 12 years in new, charred American white oak barrels, which contribute to its deep flavor and complexity.
Why is W.L. Weller 12 Year often called “Poor Man’s Pappy”?
W.L. Weller 12 Year is known as the “Poor Man’s Pappy” because it shares a similar wheated mash bill and production process with the Pappy Van Winkle lineup, making it a less expensive alternative with a comparable taste profile.
What is the typical price range for W.L. Weller 12 Year?
While the original MSRP for W.L. Weller 12 Year was around $40-$70, its scarcity has driven secondary market prices to over $300 in some cases.
What are the main flavors in W.L. Weller 12 Year?
The flavor profile includes notes of maraschino cherries, plums, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and light oak, supported by a sweet and buttery mouthfeel.
Is W.L. Weller 12 Year suitable for cocktails?
Yes, W.L. Weller 12 Year can be used in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, although many prefer to drink it neat or on the rocks to appreciate its full flavor profile.
What are some good food pairings for W.L. Weller 12 Year?
It pairs well with rich desserts such as cheesecake or chocolate cake and can complement savory dishes like grilled meats or robust cheeses.
Why is W.L. Weller 12 Year so hard to find?
The high demand, coupled with limited production, contributes to its scarcity. Collectors and bourbon enthusiasts often seek it out, which can make it challenging to find at retail prices.