As a bourbon enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of trying a variety of bourbons, and W.L. Weller Antique 107 has always been a standout option for me. Not only is it a wheated Kentucky bourbon, it offers a unique flavor profile that has garnered a dedicated following among bourbon drinkers.
Weller Antique 107 is believed to be aged between 6 to 8 years and has a proof of 107. What intrigues me about this bourbon is the balance it achieves between robust flavors and drinkability, making it a delightful sip for both newcomers and seasoned bourbon fans alike. The combination of pleasant spiciness and heat from the proof creates an interesting and memorable tasting experience.
In recent years, the popularity and demand for Weller Antique 107 have grown significantly, which has resulted in an increase in retail prices. Despite this, I still believe it is worth trying, especially if you can find it at a reasonable price. It’s a full-bodied, well-balanced, and complex bourbon that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.
Table of Contents
W.L. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon Overview
As a bourbon enthusiast, I’ve always had a keen interest in W.L. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon, a wheated bourbon that has gained significant recognition in the whiskey world.
Product History
Part of the Buffalo Trace Distillery’s lineup, Weller Antique 107 is known for its full-bodied flavor and balanced palate. It belongs to the renowned Weller family of wheated bourbons, which includes other popular expressions such as Weller Special Reserve, Weller 12, Weller Full Proof, and the ultra-exclusive William Larue Weller. Made in Kentucky, this expression enjoys a rich history and is bottled at a higher proof, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate well-crafted, robust flavors in their whiskey.
Price Range
Weller Antique 107, or Old Weller Antique (OWA) as it’s also known, is a relatively accessible bourbon when it comes to its pricing. With its reputation for being beginner-friendly, it offers an affordable entry point for those looking to explore wheated bourbons further. As with any whiskey, prices can vary depending on the market and availability, but in general, you can expect to find Weller Antique 107 within a reasonable price range.
When it comes to enjoying Weller Antique 107, I find its complex yet approachable flavor profile—attributable to its 6-8 year aging process—to be one of its most appealing aspects. Its 107 proof allows for a delightful interplay of robust flavors while maintaining a good balance overall. Whether you’re new to the world of wheated bourbons or an experienced whiskey aficionado, Weller Antique 107 provides an excellent opportunity to experience a well-made and satisfying bourbon.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon nosing the W.L. Weller Antique 107, I instantly picked up enticing notes of caramel, vanilla, and a soft wheat scent. There’s a hint of spice too, as well as gentle notes of cherry and oak. This bourbon has a very inviting aroma that left me eager to take a sip.
Flavor
As I took my first sip, I was greeted by a rich and spicy profile, with caramel and vanilla sweetness that nicely complemented the wheat. I also tasted some fruitiness, a subtle presence of cherry and perhaps a touch of citrus. The oak and spice flavors continued to make their presence known and elevated the overall taste experience.
Finish
W.L. Weller Antique 107 delivered a pleasantly long and warm finish. Initially, I noticed the lingering sweetness from the caramel and vanilla, smoothly giving way to oak and spice. It wasn’t overly drying or bitter, but instead left a balanced and satisfying conclusion to each sip.
Rating
Based on my tasting experience, I would give W.L. Weller Antique 107 a rating of 3.71 out of 5. It’s a very enjoyable Bourbon with a great balance of flavors and complexity. However, I believe its true value shines when it’s available at or close to its MSRP of $50. Any higher, and it may face stiff competition from other bottles in its price range.
Mixing and Pairing
Weller Antique 107 has a versatile flavor profile that makes it an excellent choice for mixing and pairing. I have experimented with various mixers, cocktails, and food pairings to bring out the best in this bourbon. Let me share some of my favorites with you.
Best Mixers
When mixing Weller Antique 107 with other beverages, I found that these mixers complement the bourbon’s flavors especially well:
- Ginger ale – adds a refreshing, spicy touch
- Coca-Cola – classic pairing for a sweet, smooth drink
- Club soda – for those who prefer a lighter, effervescent mixer
Cocktail Suggestions
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I’ve tried quite a few cocktails with Weller Antique 107, and these are the standout recipes:
- Old Fashioned: Combine Weller Antique 107, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters. Stir well, and garnish with an orange twist and maraschino cherry.
- Mint Julep: Muddle fresh mint leaves with simple syrup, add crushed ice, and pour Weller Antique 107 on top. Stir and garnish with a mint sprig.
- Whiskey Sour: Shake Weller Antique 107, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white (optional). Strain into a glass with ice, and garnish with a lemon wheel.
Food Pairings
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Weller Antique 107 pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, enhancing the flavors of both the bourbon and the food. Some of my go-to pairings include:
| Food | Notes |
| Grilled Steak | The charred flavors of grilled steak complement the robust notes in the bourbon. |
| Dark Chocolate | The bitterness of dark chocolate balances the sweetness of the bourbon. |
| BBQ Ribs | The smoky, sweet BBQ sauce and tender meat accent the Weller Antique 107’s complexity. |
Feel free to try out these suggestions or get creative with your own mixers, cocktails, and food pairings. The possibilities with Weller Antique 107 Bourbon are truly endless.
Conclusion
In my experience with Weller Antique 107, I found it to be a delightful bourbon that is well-balanced and full-bodied. Its higher proof provides a bold and unique profile that sets it apart from other wheated bourbons.
As I tasted this bourbon, I appreciated its slightly oily texture that sticks to the palate, providing a flavorful and enjoyable experience. The medium finish leaves behind lasting flavors that truly make each sip a memorable one.
When considering the value of Weller Antique 107, I believe it’s a great pour if you can find it at its MSRP of around $50. However, I would be hesitant to pay the inflated prices often found in stores at around $80 to $200. There are other options in those higher price ranges that may offer a better overall experience.
Ultimately, I found Weller Antique 107 to be a fantastic bourbon for both new bourbon drinkers and experienced enthusiasts alike. It showcases the characteristics of a well-crafted wheated bourbon while still being approachable and enjoyable. If you have the opportunity to try Weller Antique 107 for a reasonable price, I would highly recommend giving it a taste.
