Weller 12 vs Weller Full Proof: (Which Bourbon Wins?)

Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 02:47 pm

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 Weller 12 vs Weller Full Proof 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

Weller 12 vs Weller Full Proof: Comparison

Weller 12: A smooth, easy-drinking bourbon with a nose of caramel and cinnamon, and a palate rich in cherry and vanilla. The finish is quick, leaving a bit of longing for more depth. While delicious, its high price and the surrounding hype may overinflate expectations. Perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and are willing to pay for the prestige of its lineage, but may disappoint seekers of complexity and a robust finish.

Weller Full Proof: A bold bourbon that comes uncut and unfiltered, offering flavors of vanilla, cherry, and baking spice both on the nose and palate. Its long finish satisfies with persistent spice and cherry notes. At 114 proof, it’s strong yet surprisingly approachable, and recommended for enthusiasts looking to explore fuller flavors. The price is steep, reflecting its status and intensity, making it a treat for those willing to invest in a distinctive bourbon experience.

Verdict: Weller 12 is your go-to for smooth and subtle sips, though it may not fully justify its hype or price for every palate. Weller Full Proof stands out for those seeking a bolder taste adventure, offering a robust profile that justifies its premium. Choose based on your preference for smoothness versus intensity and how much you’re willing to spend for your bourbon experience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Weller 12: Smooth Sailing or Overhyped Voyage?

Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Van Winkle 12

Weller 12 promises smooth sailing with its 12-year age statement and impressive lineage (sharing a home with Pappy van Winkle!). But does it deliver? Let’s dive in.

The nose is a sweet whisper: brown sugar, vanilla, and hints of spice and oak tease your senses.

On the palate, it’s smooth sailing indeed. Creamy texture, rich vanilla, caramel, and cherry notes—a true delight. But hold on…

The finish? Short and sweet, like a fleeting summer breeze. The promised oak presence is subtle, leaving some wanting more complexity.

So, is it bad? Not at all! It’s easy-drinking and buttery, perfect for sipping slow. But…

The hype and price tag might set the bar too high. Compared to its reputation and cost, some may find it underwhelming.

Want to tinker? A few drops of water can add a touch of spice upfront, but the finish remains short.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. If you value smoothness and classic bourbon flavors, Weller 12 might be your treasure. But if you seek complexity and a lingering finish, you might want to explore further.

Bonus facts:

Aged 12 years in new, charred oak barrels.
Double Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Crafted at the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Remember: Enjoy responsibly and choose what suits your taste buds best!

Weller Full Proof: Bold, Beautiful, and Bursting with Flavor

Alcohol content: 104 proof (57% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Weller Single Barrel

Forget watered-down whiskey! Weller Full Proof delivers a flavor punch straight from the bottle, boasting no water dilution and no chill filtration. This means you get a richer, bolder taste that explodes with character.

What’s in the glass? Take a whiff of vanilla, cherry, and warm baking spices. It’s like smelling a delicious holiday dessert!

Take a sip and savor the buttery texture. Your taste buds will dance with baked apple, tart cherry, and hints of oak. The spices linger on the long, warming finish, leaving you wanting more.

Can you handle the heat? At 117 proof, this bourbon packs a punch. There might be a slight tingle on the finish, but the richness of flavor more than makes up for it.

Is it worth it? If you’re a bourbon enthusiast, this is a must-try! It shares the magic of Weller Antique 107, but with an extra kick of warming spice. It’s a truly remarkable pour that will leave you impressed.

Bonus fact: Aged around 6-8 years, but the exact age is a secret!

Remember: Enjoy responsibly and savor the full flavor experience!