W.L. Weller 12 is among my all-time favorite bourbons; everything about it is stunning. It’s one of those whiskeys I want in my glass at all times and never get tired of. It also shows exactly why people get so crazy about their Pappy Van Winkle.
The same juice that goes into making Pappy Van Winkle goes into making all of the Weller products. The main differences are the choice of wood and where the barrels are stored. Other than that when you’re drinking Weller you’re basically drinking Pappy Van Winkle and $26 for some quality Pappy juice ain’t bad.
Overall it’s simply astounding on every level and I enjoy it from the second I crack open the bottle the last drop in my glass. For my money it’s the best bourbon-for-your-dollar value out there and It’s THE wheated bourbon in my house when I can find it. Just wish it were a bit easier to find here in SoCal.
W.L. Weller 12 Review
ABV: 45%
Price: $26
Distiller: W.L. Weller and sons / Buffalo Trace
EYE
Dark caramel with red hues
NOSE
A caramel hulk crashes through the gates accompanied by wood and dark fruit. Vanilla, cherries and bourbon spice come marching in behind followed by red licorice and solid undertones of silky sweetness.
TASTE
It’s a riot of flavor with dark fruit, caramel, bourbon spice and oak brawling for dominance. Vanilla, cherry and a ripe citrus hang out on the fringes getting in a good shot where they can, but never fully getting involved.
FEEL
This is what a bourbon should feel like. Silken with just enough bite to keep you from falling asleep.
FINISH
Wood ends up winning the brawl with caramel coming in second followed by dark fruit, vanilla and citrus on a long slow fade to a warm sweet wood that seems to stick around for hours.
SCORE: 95/100