Buffalo Trace Distillery has just released a new limited-edition whiskey, Weller Millennium, and it's already making waves in the whiskey world. This ultra-aged, 99 proof wheated whiskey blends barrels distilled from the years 2000, 2003, 2005, and 2006, creating a unique and luxurious expression that stands out even in Buffalo Trace’s esteemed lineup.
Image credit: Buffalo Trace
A Historical Blend
Back in the year 2000, as Buffalo Trace was expanding its operations in Frankfort, Kentucky, a select few wheated bourbon barrels were set aside. Over the next decade, more barrels joined this special collection, and eventually, the distillery decided to blend them into what we now know as Weller Millennium. Master distiller Harlen Wheatley explains that the aim was to highlight how well wheat can mature over long periods, maintaining a balance without becoming overly woody.
Image credit: Buffalo Trace
Not Just Another Bourbon
Though Weller is famous for its bourbons, Weller Millennium isn’t technically classified as one. The blend consists of wheated bourbon and wheated whiskey, with the latter containing at least 51 percent wheat in its mashbill. This blend means it doesn’t meet the legal definition of bourbon, which requires at least 51 percent corn in the mashbill. Despite this, Weller Millennium retains the smooth, rich characteristics that fans of Weller bourbons have come to expect.
The Tasting Experience
At an exclusive tasting event at Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Tarrytown, New York, attendees had the opportunity to sample this exquisite whiskey. On the nose, Weller Millennium presents inviting notes of red-skinned apples, caramel, and mellowed oak. The palate reveals a silky texture with flavors of salted caramel, stone fruits, vanilla wafers, cherry pie, and macerated raisins, all rounded out by a graham cracker finish. The whiskey's 99 proof is a nod to the turn of the millennium and adds a pleasantly warming sensation without overwhelming the drinker.
High-End Presentation
Weller Millennium is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Each bottle comes in an ornate white package, with a crystal decanter housed inside an illuminated display box. The bottle features a custom-made topper with an etching of the “W” stamp that William Larue Weller himself used to indicate his approval. This luxurious presentation is fitting for a whiskey that commands a price tag of $7,500 per bottle.
Limited Availability
For those looking to add this rare whiskey to their collection, be prepared for a challenge. Buffalo Trace has hinted that only a few hundred bottles will be released, making it an instant collector's item. The rarity and high quality of Weller Millennium are sure to drive up its value on the secondary market, so enthusiasts will need to act fast to secure a bottle.
Future Prospects
While fans of Weller and Buffalo Trace might wonder if more ultra-aged expressions are on the horizon, Wheatley remains tight-lipped about future releases. He does, however, tease that the distillery has more older barrels aging in its warehouses, hinting at the potential for more exceptional whiskeys to come.
Conclusion
Weller Millennium represents a pinnacle of craftsmanship from Buffalo Trace, blending nearly a quarter-century of aging expertise with the unique qualities of wheated whiskey. Its release not only adds to the legend of the Weller brand but also sets a new standard for luxury in the world of whiskey. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate aficionado, Weller Millennium is a whiskey that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
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About Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, is one of the most historic and acclaimed distilleries in the United States. Its roots trace back to 1775 when the site was first established as a working distillery. The distillery's current name, Buffalo Trace, was adopted in 1999, paying homage to the ancient buffalo crossing on the banks of the Kentucky River nearby.
Buffalo Trace is renowned for producing a diverse range of whiskies, including bourbon and rye, under various labels. The distillery's flagship bourbon is Buffalo Trace Bourbon, a widely recognized and award-winning expression that reflects the classic characteristics of Kentucky straight bourbon. Buffalo Trace Distillery also produces other well-known brands such as Eagle Rare, Blanton's, and the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve.
The distillery is notable for its commitment to preserving traditional whiskey-making methods. Buffalo Trace is known for its use of high-quality grains, time-tested fermentation processes, and copper pot stills. Additionally, the aging warehouses on the site, some dating back to the 1800s, contribute to the unique flavor profiles of Buffalo Trace whiskies. The distillery boasts a vast array of aging barrels, including those positioned in various locations within the warehouses, each imparting distinct characteristics to the maturing spirits.
