Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:56 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Elmer T. Lee vs Weller 12 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel vs Weller 12: Comparison
Elmer T. Lee: A light and smooth bourbon with floral and honey notes on the nose, complemented by vanilla, oak, and cherry on the palate, finishing with caramel and spice. Ideal for those who appreciate a gentle sip.
Weller 12: Offers a sweet experience, starting with caramel and cinnamon on the nose, followed by a palate of cherry, vanilla, and oak, with a quick finish of cinnamon and caramel. Perfect for lovers of smooth bourbon with a preference for sweetness and a shorter finish.
Key Difference: Elmer T. Lee and Weller, both from Buffalo Trace Distillery, differ in mash bills: Elmer T. Lee with a higher rye content like Blanton’s, and Weller features a wheated mash.
Verdict: Elmer T. Lee and Weller 12 both provide smooth and enjoyable bourbon experiences, with Elmer T. Lee offering a hint of mystery in its gentle sip, while Weller 12 appeals to those who favor sweetness and an oily texture, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Bourbon Alternatives to Weller
Elmer T. Lee: A Smooth Sip with a Hint of Mystery
- Nose: Floral, honey, oak, baking spice
- Palate: Vanilla, oak, cherry
- Finish: Caramel, vanilla, spice
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Stagg Jr.
Sweet & Spicy Nose: Elmer T. Lee opens with a delightful bouquet of floral notes, warm baking spices, and a touch of alcohol that mellows out with air. Think blooming gardens with a hint of kick.
Light & Smooth Palate: Don’t expect a heavy body here. The taste is smooth and sweet, featuring classic bourbon flavors like vanilla, cherry, and fruity hints, all kissed by subtle oak. Think afternoon tea with a subtle oaky twist.
Easy Finish: The goodbye is all about lingering spice, caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak char. Smoothness reigns supreme, with minimal burn making it perfect for easy sipping. Think warm spice cookies with a hint of oak.
Smooth, But Not Mind-Blowing: While Elmer T. Lee stays smooth throughout, the lower alcohol content and lighter body might leave some wanting more punch. Still, it’s a great option for smoothness lovers.
Worth the Price? At retail price, it’s okay. But inflated secondary market prices might not be justified. Remember, smoothness comes at a cost (sometimes literally!).
Bonus Facts: Aged around 6 years, it’s a Double Gold winner and a creation by the legendary Elmer T. Lee, the single barrel bourbon pioneer!
Overall: Elmer T. Lee is a smooth and easy sipper, but manage your expectations for body and complexity. If you prioritize smoothness above all else, it’s a decent choice. But if you crave a bold bourbon experience, consider exploring other options. Cheers!
Unpacking Weller 12: Sweetness, Spice, and a Touch of Reality
- Nose: Caramel, cinnamon, oak
- Palate: Cherry, cinnamon, vanilla, oak
- Finish: Cinnamon, caramel, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Knob Creek 12
Sniffing out the good stuff: Weller 12’s nose starts subtle, with hints of brown sugar, vanilla, and warm baking spices mingling with a touch of oak. Think cozy kitchen vibes.
Sipping smooth: The first sip is like velvet on your tongue, creamy and rich with vanilla, caramel, and a hint of cherry. The oak influence is gentle, more like a whisper than a shout.
The finish line: It’s smooth, without any harsh heat, but doesn’t linger as long as some might like. Think quick fade rather than a slow sunset.
So, is it worth the hype? Weller 12 is easy to drink and undeniably smooth, but keep in mind the finish is on the shorter side. Adding a splash of water can perk up the spice, but won’t magically extend the ending.
Price tag vs. reality: This bourbon carries a hefty price tag, and while it’s good, it might not blow your mind compared to the expectations (and cost). Some might find it underwhelming.
Bonus facts: Aged 12 years in new oak barrels, it even snagged a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Fancy!
Overall: Weller 12 is a solid, smooth bourbon, but manage your expectations based on the price and shorter finish. If you’re looking for a complex sipper with a long, lingering goodbye, this might not be your perfect match. Cheers!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel | $170 |
| Weller 12 | $240 |