Weller 12 Year is a bourbon that is often compared to the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. While it may not have the same level of prestige as Pappy, it is often referred to as the “poor man's Pappy” due to its similar flavor profile and lower price point.
In terms of its mash bill, Weller 12 Year uses the same wheated mash bill as the Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. This means that instead of the traditional bourbon mash bill, which typically consists of at least 51% corn, Weller 12 Year is made with a higher proportion of wheat. The exact mash bill for Weller 12 Year is not publicly disclosed, but it is believed to be around 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley.
The use of wheat in the mash bill gives Weller 12 Year and other wheated bourbons a distinct flavor profile. Wheated bourbons tend to be smoother, with less of the spicy kick that can be found in bourbons made with a higher proportion of rye. The wheat also contributes to a softer mouthfeel and a slightly sweeter taste.
I have had the pleasure of tasting Weller 12 Year on several occasions, and I can attest to its deliciousness. The nose is rich and inviting, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. On the palate, I detected flavors of honey, toasted nuts, and a hint of baking spices. The finish was long and warm, with a lingering sweetness.
One thing to note about Weller 12 Year is its scarcity. Like many highly sought-after bourbons, it can be difficult to find on store shelves. In recent years, the demand for Weller 12 Year and other wheated bourbons has skyrocketed, leading to shortages and inflated prices on the secondary market. However, if you are able to get your hands on a bottle, it is definitely worth trying.
Weller 12 Year is a wheated bourbon that uses the same mash bill as the legendary Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. Its smooth and sweet flavor profile, along with its more affordable price point, has earned it the nickname of the “poor man's Pappy”. While it may be hard to find, it is definitely a bourbon worth seeking out for any whiskey enthusiast.