William Larue Weller Whiskey is a top name in bourbon. It honours the distiller who first used wheat instead of rye in bourbon. He was a 19th-century Kentucky bourbon maker. His name lives on in this popular whiskey.
The whiskey is part of the Buffalo Trace Distillery's Antique Collection. This collection includes premium, limited-edition whiskeys. The distillery is one of America's oldest and is in Frankfort, Kentucky. The whiskey is known for its quality and has many fans.
Distillation and Production
The whiskey follows Kentucky's traditional distilling methods. It has a twist: wheat instead of rye. This makes the whiskey smoother and softer. It is known for its rich, full body.
The distilling process is careful. It focuses on grain selection, fermentation, and distillation temperatures. The whiskey ages in new, charred oak barrels. This gives it a deep amber colour and flavours of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
Ageing and Character
William Larue Weller is vintage-dated. Each release shows a year's weather and ageing conditions. It is also barrel-proof. This means it keeps its full strength. The whiskey is often aged for twelve years or more. It develops a range of flavours and aromas. The alcohol content can be high, around 60-70% ABV.
Tasting Notes
The whiskey has aromas of dark fruits like cherries and plums. It also has scents of butterscotch, honey, and vanilla. The taste includes caramel, dried fruit, chocolate, and a hint of cinnamon. Despite its strength, it is warm and velvety.
Awards and Recognition
William Larue Weller Whiskey has won many awards. It often appears on top whiskey lists. It has won gold medals at international spirits competitions.
Collectability and Enjoyment
The whiskey is a collector's item due to its limited production and quality. Fans look forward to its annual release. Many recommend adding water or ice to bring out its flavours. It's a whiskey to enjoy slowly, exploring its depth and complexity.