Introducing Weller Millennium, an ultra-aged blend of vintage wheated bourbon and wheat whiskey from Buffalo Trace. Crafted from casks laid down in 2000, 2003, 2005, and 2006, this new release honours William Larue Weller, often cited as one of the first exponents of wheated bourbon.
The launch follows on from the release of another premium Buffalo Trace expression, Eagle Rare 25 Year Old.
The barrel break-down reveals that 3% of Weller Millennium was distilled in 2000, 50% in 2003, 40% in 2005, and 7% in 2006.
Crafted from casks laid down in 2000, 2003, 2005, and 2006, the release honours William Larue Weller, cited as one of the first exponents of wheated bourbon...
Tasting notes speak of rich caramel and toffee notes on the nose, indicative of prolonged interaction with oak barrels. Subtle hints of dried fruits, such as figs and raisins, and a touch of stone fruit linger throughout. The palate continues with persistent caramel sweetness, finishing with a prominent oak influence that imparts a subtle dryness.
Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace's Master Distiller, explains: "We often hold back small lots of barrels for extended ageing, hoping that this experimentation will yield a particularly well-balanced, matured whiskey. In this case, the whiskey distilled in 2000 showed incredible balance, and we asked ourselves how wheat would perform as an ultra-aged spirit. It's proven to be an impeccable backbone to this expression, showcasing wheat's versatility beyond traditional wheated bourbon."
The presentation of Weller Millennium is suitably extravagant. The whiskey is housed in a 750ml handcrafted crystal decanter with a custom-made crystal topper, hand-etched with W.L. Weller's original 'W' stamp of quality. An illuminated display encases the 99-proof bottling, featuring exactly 99 bursts that highlight the percentages of each vintage spirit within.
Bottled at 49.5% ABV, Weller Millennium will be released in limited quantities from June 2024, with a suggested retail price of $7,500 for a 750ml bottle. It joins the esteemed Weller portfolio, which includes expressions such as Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique 107, Weller 12-Year-Old, and Weller Full Proof.
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