Weller Millennium Bourbon
Weller Millennium Bourbon, released in the year 2000, is one of the most celebrated and sought-after bottles in the world of whiskey. Created by Buffalo Trace Distillery, this bourbon stands out not just for its rarity but also for its exceptional quality. With a wheated mash bill that includes corn, barley, and wheat, Weller Millennium provides a smoother, sweeter profile compared to rye-based bourbons. This limited-edition release has earned a place in the hearts of collectors, enthusiasts, and whiskey connoisseurs alike. In this article, we’ll explore the history, flavor profile, production process, and everything else you need to know about Weller Millennium Bourbon. weller millennium for sale.
The Legacy of Weller Bourbon
Weller Bourbon has long been revered in the whiskey world, known for its signature wheated recipe that delivers a gentler, smoother drink. The original Weller brand dates back to the 19th century and was created by William Larue Weller, who is often credited with creating the first wheated bourbon. The Weller brand was acquired by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1999, and under its stewardship, Weller bourbons have become some of the most highly respected whiskies globally.
Weller Millennium Bourbon was introduced as a special, one-time release to mark the turn of the century. It was designed to celebrate the 2000s and stand out in the growing whiskey market. Released in limited quantities, the bottle quickly became a collector’s item. Today, it’s considered a rare gem among whiskey enthusiasts, and finding a bottle on the shelves is an extraordinary event.
What Makes Weller Millennium Different?
Weller Millennium Bourbon differentiates itself from other Weller expressions through its unique combination of aging, ingredients, and limited release. It is a wheated bourbon, meaning that it uses wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye. This substitution imparts a smoother, sweeter flavor profile, making it more approachable for those who enjoy less spicy, more mellow bourbons.
The bourbon is also known for its complex aging process. Weller Millennium was aged in new charred oak barrels, which helps develop the deep flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak that it’s known for. The time spent in these barrels is crucial for the development of the bourbon’s character, and the result is a rich and flavorful whiskey that leaves a lasting impression.
Tasting Notes of Weller Millennium Bourbon
Weller Millennium Bourbon is widely celebrated for its balance and depth of flavor. Upon first sniff, you’re greeted with an inviting nose of caramel, vanilla, and light oak. The sweetness from the wheat provides a soft base, while the oak offers a hint of woodiness that makes it immediately intriguing.
On the palate, Weller Millennium continues its smooth and velvety texture, with rich flavors of butterscotch, honey, and soft baking spices. You may notice subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, giving the bourbon a bit of warmth. As you sip, the flavor unfolds with layers of vanilla and toasted oak, providing a depth that makes this bourbon a joy to savor. The finish is long and warm, with a lingering sweetness that leaves you coming back for more.
What is the MSRP of Weller Millennium?
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of Weller Millennium Bourbon at its time of release was around $100 to $150. However, since it was a limited edition, the availability of Weller Millennium is now extremely rare. As a result, it’s common to see bottles sold for significantly higher prices on the secondary market.
Today, a bottle of Weller Millennium typically fetches anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on its condition, packaging, and provenance. The high price is due to the rarity of the bottle, with only a limited number released in 2000. For collectors and serious whiskey drinkers, these prices are often seen as a reflection of the rarity and prestige of owning such a unique bottle.
Where to Buy Weller Millennium Bourbon
Finding a bottle of Weller Millennium Bourbon at retail is nearly impossible. Since it was released over two decades ago, bottles are now mostly found in private collections, whiskey auctions, and select specialty retailers that deal in rare and collectible bottles.
Online whiskey auctions like Bonhams or Whisky Auctioneer sometimes feature bottles of Weller Millennium, though prices at auction tend to be high due to the demand for this rare release. It’s also possible to find it through specialized liquor retailers who specialize in rare whiskey, but be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of owning such a sought-after bottle.
Weller Millennium vs. Other Weller Expressions
While Weller Millennium stands out for its rarity and the one-time release, it’s important to compare it to other expressions in the Weller lineup. For example, Weller 12 Year Old and Weller Special Reserve are both widely available and are part of the core Weller offerings. These whiskies share the same wheated mash bill, but Weller Millennium is different in that it’s a limited edition with a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
The Weller 12 Year Old is known for its smoothness and balance, but it doesn’t carry the same complexity or richness that Weller Millennium does. Similarly, Weller Special Reserve is a great entry-level wheated bourbon, but it lacks the depth and aging process that make Weller Millennium so special. As a result, Weller Millennium holds a unique place in the Weller family, often regarded as the pinnacle of the brand’s offerings.
Popular Questions About Weller Millennium Bourbon
1. Why is Weller Millennium so expensive?
The primary reason for the high cost of Weller Millennium is its rarity. Only a limited number of bottles were released in 2000, and as time passes, the availability of unopened bottles decreases. The scarcity, combined with the exceptional quality of the bourbon, leads to inflated prices on the secondary market. Additionally, its status as a collectible whiskey drives the demand further.
2. How old is Weller Millennium Bourbon?
Weller Millennium Bourbon was released in 2000 and was aged for approximately 10 to 12 years before being bottled. While the exact age may vary slightly, it is considered to be a mature whiskey with a rich and complex flavor profile that benefits from its extended aging process.
3. Is Weller Millennium the same as Weller 12 Year Old?
No, Weller Millennium is a distinct release from Weller 12 Year Old. Although both are part of the Weller lineup and share a wheated mash bill, Weller Millennium was a one-time release designed to celebrate the year 2000. It has a more complex flavor profile due to its longer aging and the special release nature of the bottle. Weller 12 Year Old, on the other hand, is a core product and more widely available.
4. How should I drink Weller Millennium?
Given its rarity and premium nature, Weller Millennium is best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its complex flavors. However, if you prefer, you can also enjoy it on the rocks or in a cocktail. For a special treat, use it in a premium Manhattan or Old Fashioned. The bourbon’s smooth texture and depth of flavor make it versatile enough to be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
5. Can I find Weller Millennium at a reasonable price?
Due to its rarity, finding Weller Millennium at a reasonable price can be challenging. While it was originally priced between $100 and $150, today’s secondary market prices are much higher, often ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. If you’re looking for a bottle at retail price, it’s best to check with reputable whiskey retailers or auctions, but be prepared to pay a premium for this rare collectible.
6. How do I know if my Weller Millennium bottle is authentic?
Authenticating Weller Millennium bottles can be difficult, as counterfeit bottles occasionally appear on the market. To ensure authenticity, always buy from trusted sellers or auction houses with a reputation for selling genuine rare spirits. Look for proper labeling, packaging, and provenance to verify the authenticity of your bottle. If you’re unsure, consult with experts or whiskey appraisers who can confirm whether the bottle is legitimate.
The Status of Weller Millennium in the Whiskey World
Weller Millennium is not just a great bourbon; it’s a historical release that carries significant weight in the world of whiskey. Its rarity, coupled with the quality of the bourbon itself, has elevated it to a level of prestige that few other bottles can match. For collectors, owning a bottle of Weller Millennium is a mark of distinction, and for connoisseurs, it represents a unique opportunity to taste a rare expression from one of the finest distilleries in the world.
The impact of Weller Millennium goes beyond just the bottle itself—it helps underscore the growing importance of limited-edition releases in the bourbon industry. As more whiskey drinkers and collectors turn their attention to rare and collectible bottles, Weller Millennium will remain a shining example of how a well-crafted whiskey, when paired with rarity, can become a legendary product.
Conclusion: A Rare Treasure Worth the Investment
Weller Millennium Bourbon is a rare and exceptional whiskey that has earned its place in the pantheon of fine bourbons. Its smooth, wheated profile, rich flavors, and limited availability make it a prized possession for collectors and whiskey enthusiasts alike. While finding a bottle at a reasonable price can be challenging, its rarity and prestige make it a worthy investment for those who are fortunate enough to secure one.
Whether you’re an experienced bourbon connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of whiskey, Weller Millennium offers an opportunity to experience something truly unique.