Frankfort, KY (July 25, 2025) - Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to announce two super-premium wheat whiskey innovations from the Original Wheated Bourbon brand, including the second edition of Weller Millennium, comprising a new blend of ultra-aged wheat whiskeys; and Weller 18 Year Old, the brand's oldest age statement to date. Meticulously crafted to push the boundaries of maturation and blending, these releases boldly demonstrate the exceptional aging potential and versatility of wheat in American whiskey production.
Produced at The World's Most Award-Winning Distillery, both innovations celebrate the original wheated bourbon reciped pioneered by William Larue Weller in 1847. At a time when rye and corn dominated the market, Weller's use of the more delicate wheat grain - primarily a food crop - resulted in a smoother, sweeter whiskey that set his whiskeys apart. These latest expressions honor Weller's legacy of innovation as Buffalo Trace Distillery continues its ongoing exploration of wheat in pursuit of crafting the world's best whiskey.
Weller Millennium #2: Following the inaugural Weller Millennium released in May 2024, the second edition presents a newly-crafted blend of vintage straight wheated bourbon and wheat whiskeys. Consistent with its predecessor, each component was distilled at Buffalo Trace Distillery in 2001, 2003, and 2006 and set aside for the sole purpose of creating this extraordinary blend in tribute of one of its forebearers, W.L. Weller. By thoughtfully blending these individually distinct whiskeys, the resulting spirit attains a depth and complexity that transcends the sum of its parts.
"Weller Millennium was crafted to feature some of the first whiskeys distilled in the new millennium amid a period of transformation at Buffalo Trace Distillery. This second edition takes last year's release a step further, with a new blend that we humbly believe is an improvement over the well-regarded first edition," said Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery. "By carefully selecting and blending barrels dating back to the early 2000's, we have revisited a chapter in the distillery's history that shaped who we are today."
The second edition of Weller Millennium offers a balance of dark cherry, rich butterscotch and warm vanilla that unfolds over layers of well-aged oak. The finish is bold and enduring, culimating in an oak-forward crescendo that leaves a lasting impression. Suggested retail price is $7,500 for the 750ml hand-crafted crystal decanter.
Weller 18 Year Old: As the oldest age stated whiskey in the Weller portfolio, Weller 18 Year Old brings exceptional grace and depth as an ultra-aged, 90 proof wheat whiskey. This new release stands as a testament to the distillery's dedication to innovation, demonstrating that Kentucky-aged whiskey can mature beautifully well beyond more commonly seen age statements.
"Weller 18 Year Old is the culmination of curiosity, tradition and time," said Harley Wheatley, Master Distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery. "The softness of the wheat has evolved into something rich and wonderfully expressive. We are extremely proud of the resulting whiskey, which showcases the versatility and potential of a wheat-forward mashbill."
On the nose, the whiskey reveals notes of delicately aged fruits and tobacco. The palate offers a harmonious balance of warm baking spices and crisp green pear, delivering depth without overwhelming, and leads to a lasting finish.
This 700ml handrafted crystal decanter carries a suggested retail price of $499 and will be available via Global Travel Retail at airports including LAX, JFK adn LHR.
