In the heart of Kentucky, where rolling hills meet the winding Kentucky River, a small distillery has been quietly crafting a whiskey that’s taken the world by storm. W.L. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon, produced by the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, was crowned the World’s Best Whiskey at the 2025 London Spirits Competition, beating out heavy hitters from Scotland, Japan, and beyond. This isn’t just another award for the trophy case—it’s a moment that solidifies Weller 107 as a bourbon that’s not only steeped in history but also redefining what whiskey can be.
The 2025 London Spirits Competition wasn’t a casual tasting. It was a battleground of the world’s finest spirits, judged by experts who know their whiskey inside and out. Weller 107 didn’t just win—it dominated, earning the coveted Spirit of the Year and Best Spirit by Quality awards. The judges were blown away by its depth, balance, and sheer presence in the glass. For bourbon fans, this victory is no surprise. Weller 107 has been a favorite among enthusiasts for years, but this global recognition puts it in a league of its own.
What makes W.L. Weller Antique 107 so special? It starts with its roots. This bourbon is crafted using a wheated mash bill, a recipe that swaps out the traditional rye grain for wheat. This choice, pioneered by William Larue Weller and later perfected by Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle, gives Weller 107 its signature smoothness. Instead of the sharp, spicy kick you might expect from rye-based bourbons, Weller 107 offers a softer, sweeter profile. Think rich caramel, creamy vanilla, and warm oak, with a texture that feels like silk on the tongue. It’s the kind of whiskey that invites you to linger over every sip.
The connection to Pappy Van Winkle doesn’t end with the recipe. Weller 107 shares the same mash bill as the ultra-rare Van Winkle line, often called the “holy grail” of bourbons. Both are made at Buffalo Trace, and while Pappy gets most of the hype, insiders know that Weller 107 is like its scrappy, equally talented sibling. At 107 proof, it’s bold and unapologetic, delivering a complex flavor profile that unfolds with every moment in the glass. You’ll taste honeyed sweetness up front, followed by dark fruit notes like cherry and plum, and a spicy finish that lingers just long enough to leave you wanting more.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, where Weller 107 is born, is more than just a place—it’s a living piece of American history. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, the distillery has been making whiskey for over two centuries. It’s weathered wars, economic crashes, and even Prohibition, when it was one of the few allowed to produce “medicinal” whiskey. Today, Buffalo Trace is a powerhouse, home to some of the most iconic names in bourbon: Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, E.H. Taylor, and, of course, Weller and Van Winkle. What sets Buffalo Trace apart is its relentless pursuit of quality. Every bottle is a testament to craftsmanship, from the careful selection of grains to the precise aging process in charred oak barrels.
Speaking of aging, Weller 107 doesn’t rely on a specific age statement, and that’s intentional. Instead of sticking to a rigid timeline, Buffalo Trace’s master blenders taste the barrels regularly, pulling them when they’re at their peak. This flexibility allows Weller 107 to consistently deliver a flavor that’s vibrant and full-bodied, regardless of how many years it spent in the barrel. It’s a reminder that great whiskey isn’t about numbers—it’s about taste.
But here’s the hard truth: getting your hands on a bottle of Weller 107 is no easy task. Once a hidden gem that bourbon hunters could find on store shelves, it’s now one of the most sought-after bottles in the world. Limited production and skyrocketing demand have turned Weller 107 into what collectors call a “unicorn bottle.” Secondary market prices have gone through the roof, often reaching several times the original retail price. For many, owning a bottle is as much about the thrill of the chase as it is about the whiskey itself.
Despite its rarity, Weller 107 remains true to its origins. It’s a bourbon that honors the vision of William Larue Weller, who believed in making whiskey that was approachable yet extraordinary. Even as it’s become a status symbol for collectors, it’s still a whiskey meant to be enjoyed. Whether you’re savoring it neat on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends to mark a special occasion, Weller 107 delivers an experience that’s unforgettable.
The 2025 London Spirits Competition win is a milestone, but it’s also a reminder of what makes bourbon so special. It’s not just about the liquid in the bottle—it’s about the stories, the tradition, and the passion that go into every drop. W.L. Weller Antique 107 is a shining example of that legacy. From its smooth, wheated profile to its bold 107-proof punch, it’s a whiskey that commands attention and earns every bit of its acclaim.
For those lucky enough to find a bottle, Weller 107 is more than just a drink—it’s a piece of history, a taste of Kentucky, and a glimpse into why bourbon continues to capture hearts around the world. And for those still searching, the hunt is worth it. After all, when a whiskey this good is crowned the best in the world, you know it’s something special.
