William Larue Weller, or WLW as it’s affectionately known by bourbon enthusiasts, is a wheated bourbon draped in mystique. Part of Buffalo Trace’s vaunted Antique Collection, this wheated whiskey is a wheaty wonder, lauded for its smooth character and elusive nature. Let’s uncork the secrets of this coveted bottle and see if it lives up to the hype.

Average Retail Price: $1,795+

Tasting Notes Profile

William Larue Weller boasts a rich, mahogany hue, hinting at its years spent maturing in charred oak barrels. The viscous liquid leaves thick, slow-descending legs as it’s swirled, a testament to its luxurious body.

Nose

The initial aroma is a captivating symphony of sweetness and spice. Vanilla bean and caramel dance playfully with hints of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a warm, inviting impression. But WLW doesn’t stop there. Deeper sniffs reveal a delightful complexity – hints of dried fruit like apricot and cherry peek through, alongside subtle notes of cocoa and toasted oak. The balance is truly impressive, each note complementing the others in a harmonious blend.

Palate

The first sip is a revelation. The wheated bourbon coats the tongue with a velvety texture, delivering a wave of toasted oak, vanilla custard, and hints of dark chocolate. As it develops on the palate, flavors of candied orange peel and baking spices emerge, playing a delightful game of hide-and-seek. The sweetness is present but never cloying, perfectly counterpointed by the dry whispers of oak and a hint of peppery spice on the back end. The complexity is truly a standout feature, with each sip revealing a new layer of flavor.

Finish

The finish is the crown jewel of the WLW experience. It lingers impressively, with the flavors of toasted oak, vanilla, and baking spices leaving a warm and satisfying impression. A hint of dark chocolate lingers on the breath, a delightful reminder of the complex flavors that came before.

Overall Impression

William Larue Weller is a truly exceptional wheated bourbon. It’s a masterclass in balance and complexity, offering a captivating journey for the senses. Each sip is a luxurious experience, best savored neat or with a single ice cube to release the full spectrum of flavors. However, due to its limited production and growing popularity, WLW can be quite difficult to find, and often commands a premium price tag.

Conclusion: A Wheated Treasure, But Elusive

William Larue Weller is a bourbon for those who appreciate the finer things. It’s a wheated whiskey that transcends the ordinary, offering a truly unforgettable experience. However, its rarity and price tag might make it a special occasion dram for most.

So, have you ever had the good fortune to try William Larue Weller? Did you find it lived up to the buzz? Share your thoughts and tasting notes in the comments below.

Dive deeper and learn more about the hearty William Larve Weller here.