
Rapha Pro Team Bib Shorts Ii Regular Black White Large
Overview
Weller Special Reserve is a celebrated entry-level wheated bourbon from the esteemed W.L. Weller line, crafted by Buffalo Trace Distillery. Renowned for its approachable flavor profile, it offers a compelling gateway to the world of bourbon, often compared favorably to its more elusive siblings in the Weller lineup.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Whiskey |
| ABV | 45% |
| Mashbill | Corn, wheat, malted barley |
| Release Info | Produced with a mash bill that replaces rye with wheat, historically rooted in the Weller family tradition since the mid-1800s. |
| Age | Typically aged 4 to 7 years |
Good to know
Weller Special Reserve was once an easily accessible bourbon but has since gained notoriety, making it a sought-after bottle due to its connection to the highly coveted Pappy Van Winkle expressions. Its production at Buffalo Trace ensures it shares barrel origins with these legendary bourbons.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Inviting aromas of vanilla, blueberry, and a hint of cinnamon evoke the warmth of freshly baked goods.
- Palate: The taste unfolds with a delightful mix of sweet cherries, caramel, and baking spices, rounded out by a comforting note of oak.
- Finish: A warm, medium-length finish lingers with hints of bubblegum, berries, and a subtle spice that invites another sip.
Notable details
- Production: Bottled at 90 proof, this bourbon is non-chill filtered, retaining its rich flavors.
- Lineage: Weller Special Reserve is part of a storied lineage that began with William Larue Weller, credited as the pioneer of wheated bourbon.
- Comparison: Frequently likened to Maker's Mark and sought after for its approachable nature, yet it lacks the complexity found in higher-end Weller offerings.
- Availability: Due to increased demand, it has become harder to find at retail price, often showing up on secondary markets at inflated rates.
Serving suggestions
Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to enhance its sweet notes. It also performs well in cocktails like a Mint Julep or a classic Old Fashioned.
“Weller Special Reserve provides a happy-making blueberry muffin vibe through its balanced wheated bourbon profile.” – Bourbon Guy
Closing
Weller Special Reserve stands as a delightful introduction to wheated bourbons, balancing sweetness and accessibility with rich historical significance.
Sources
[1] Bourbon Guy – “Weller Special Reserve Review”, Dec 2019
[2] The Bourbon Culture – “Weller Special Reserve Bourbon Review”, N/A
[3] Thirty One Whiskey – “WL Weller Special Reserve”, N/A
[4] Liquor.com – “W.L. Weller Special Reserve Wheated Bourbon Review”, N/A
[5] Breaking Bourbon – “Weller Special Reserve (2020) Review”, N/A
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