W.l Weller 12 Years
Overview
W.L. Weller 12 Years is a celebrated wheated bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery, often referred to as "poor man's Pappy." This bourbon combines a storied legacy with a smooth profile, appealing to both novices and connoisseurs alike.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Wheated bourbon |
| ABV | 45% (90 proof) |
| Mashbill | Wheat-based (exact mashbill undisclosed) |
| Release Info | Aged 12 years, with a history of being accessible but now often scarce due to demand for premium relatives like Pappy Van Winkle. MSRP was historically around $20-30 but has escalated in secondary markets. |
| Age | 12 years |
Good to know
Originally crafted by William Larue Weller in 1825, this bourbon has evolved into a benchmark for wheated styles. Its connection to Pappy Van Winkle has spurred a fervent collector interest. Once widely available, it is now a rare find, driving prices significantly higher than its original retail.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Cherry preserves, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of clove greet you, layered with oak and ginger.
- Palate: Smooth and inviting, flavors of toffee, baked cherry pie, and rich caramel come through with a touch of black pepper and mint.
- Finish: A warm, nutty finish with lingering baking spices and a refreshing mint oak essence.
Notable details
- Production: Matured in standard barrels at Buffalo Trace, characterized by its wheated recipe, this bourbon is known for its approachable flavor profile.
- Lineage: Part of a lineage that includes some of the finest wheated bourbons, its similarities to Pappy Van Winkle have led to its nickname as "baby Pappy."
- Comparison: Often compared to other wheated bourbons like Larceny and Maker's Mark, it stands out due to its complexity and age.
- Availability: Once a shelf staple, now hard to find, with current secondary market prices averaging $59, often exceeding $89.
Serving suggestions
Best enjoyed neat to savor its complex flavors, though a splash of water can enhance its aromatic profile.
“W.L. Weller 12 Year Bourbon is a balanced, high-value wheated bourbon that outperforms many more expensive competitors while sharing a recipe with Pappy Van Winkle.” – Breaking Bourbon
Closing
W.L. Weller 12 Years exemplifies the best of wheated bourbon, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that invite exploration, making it a worthy addition to any whiskey enthusiast's collection.
Sources
[1] Breaking Bourbon – “W.L. Weller 12 Year Bourbon Review”, 2023
[2] The Whiskey Wash – “W.L. Weller 12 Year Old”, 2025
[3] Bourbon Guy – “W.L. Weller 12 year old”, 2015
[4] WhiskeyBon – “W.L. Weller 12 Year Old Review”, 2023
[5] Drinkhacker – “W.L. Weller 12 Years Old Review”, 2013