Weller Antique 107 Review: Is It Worth the Hype?
Not all bourbons are created equal, and the specific grains used in the recipe make a world of difference. While most use rye for a spicy kick, wheated bourbons offer a softer, smoother, and often sweeter experience. Weller Antique 107 is a perfect example of a wheated bourbon that refuses to be gentle. Bottled at a robust 107 proof, it delivers a rich, full-bodied flavor that balances sweet notes of caramel and vanilla with a warm, spicy finish. This article explores everything you need to know about this exceptional spirit, from its unique production process to its complex tasting notes.
Key Takeaways
- It's a wheated bourbon with a punch: Unlike spicier rye-based bourbons, Weller Antique 107 uses wheat for a smoother, sweeter foundation. The 107 proof gives it a bold, full-bodied character that makes it stand out from the rest of the Weller lineup.
- Expect rich, dessert-like flavors: The tasting experience is defined by a warm blend of caramel, dark cherry, and vanilla, all balanced by a pleasant cinnamon spice that carries through its long, satisfying finish.
- Buy it at retail, but think twice about paying a premium: If you find this bottle near its $50 retail price, it's an incredible value. Once prices climb into the triple digits, its worth becomes debatable, as many other excellent whiskeys are available for less.
What Exactly is Weller Antique 107?
Before we get into tasting notes and where to find it, let's cover the basics of what makes Weller Antique 107 so special. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf; its unique production process and history are a huge part of its appeal. From its grain recipe to its proof, every detail contributes to the bourbon's sought-after status. Understanding these elements helps you appreciate what’s in your glass and why so many people are eager to get their hands on it.
Understanding the "Wheated" Bourbon Difference
First things first, Weller Antique 107 is a "wheated" bourbon. If you're new to the term, it simply means that wheat is used as the secondary grain in the mash bill instead of the more common rye. This tradition was pioneered by William Larue Weller himself way back in 1849. Why does it matter? Using wheat gives the whiskey a noticeably softer, smoother, and slightly sweeter character. While rye provides spicy and peppery notes, wheat offers a more gentle and rounded flavor profile, which many find incredibly approachable and easy to sip. It’s the perfect introduction to a more complex style of bourbon.
The Legacy of Buffalo Trace Distillery
A bourbon's reputation is often tied to where it's made, and Weller is no exception. The entire W.L. Weller line is produced at the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, a place known for its unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This distillery is responsible for some of the most respected and coveted bourbons in the world, including Pappy Van Winkle (more on that connection later). Knowing that Antique 107 comes from a distillery with such a stellar track record gives you confidence that you're getting a well-made spirit built on a long history of excellence and a deep understanding of what makes great bourbon.
How It's Made and Why 107 Proof Matters
The "107" in the name isn't just a random number—it's the proof, which translates to 53.5% alcohol by volume. This higher proof point is key to the bourbon's identity. It delivers a bold, robust, and full-bodied flavor that stands up beautifully whether you're drinking it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. The higher alcohol content carries more flavor compounds, resulting in a richer and more complex tasting experience. It strikes a perfect balance, offering intense flavor without being overwhelmingly hot, which is a testament to the skill of the distillers who craft this exceptional spirit.
A Quick Look at Its Age Statement History
For long-time bourbon fans, the topic of age statements is always a point of discussion. Up until 2009, Weller Antique 107 carried a 7-year age statement on its label. When Buffalo Trace removed it, the bourbon became a non-age-stated (NAS) product. While some enthusiasts debate whether the quality has changed over the years, the bourbon is still aged for a similar amount of time, typically around 6 to 8 years. This change hasn't slowed its popularity one bit; in fact, the demand has only grown, proving the liquid inside remains exceptional and continues to impress both new and seasoned drinkers.
What Does Weller Antique 107 Taste Like?
Pouring a glass of Weller Antique 107 is an experience for the senses. As a wheated bourbon, it offers a softer, smoother profile than its rye-based counterparts, but the 107 proof ensures it’s anything but timid. This bourbon is known for its complex layers of sweet, spicy, and fruity notes that unfold from the first sniff to the last lingering taste. If you're curious about what makes this bottle so sought-after, let's walk through its distinct flavor profile. It’s a beautifully balanced pour that manages to be both bold and approachable, making it a favorite among seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.
What really sets it apart is how it delivers that classic, sweet wheated character—think caramel, vanilla, and baked goods—while packing the punch of a higher-proof spirit. This isn't a bourbon that whispers; it speaks clearly with rich, developed flavors. Many people find it to be the sweet spot in the Weller lineup, offering more complexity than the Special Reserve but remaining more accessible than the 12 Year. We'll get into the specifics of the aroma, the taste on your palate, and the finish it leaves behind, so you'll know exactly what to expect when you finally get your hands on a bottle.
Aroma: What to Expect on the Nose
Before you even take a sip, the aroma—or what experts call the "nose"—tells you a lot about the bourbon. Bring the glass toward you and take a gentle sniff. Weller Antique 107 greets you with a rich, warm wave of sweet dark fruit, like cherries and baked apples, all wrapped in a blanket of caramel. You’ll also pick up classic baking spices, especially a pleasant cinnamon note that adds a bit of warmth. There’s a depth to it, with hints of chocolate and vanilla that make the whole experience incredibly inviting. It’s a complex and satisfying aroma that promises a flavorful sip, setting the stage for the rich whiskey you’re about to enjoy.
Palate: Key Flavors and Mouthfeel
Now for the best part: the taste. The "palate" refers to the flavors you experience when the bourbon is on your tongue. The first thing you’ll likely notice about Antique 107 is its wonderfully smooth, almost velvety mouthfeel. The initial sweetness from the nose carries through with notes of honey, vanilla, and rich caramel. This is quickly followed by a delightful burst of fruit—think dark cherry and plum—balanced by a warming cinnamon spice. Deeper flavors of dark chocolate and toasted marshmallow emerge, creating a profile that is both sweet and complex. It’s a full-bodied sip that coats your mouth with flavor without being overwhelming.
The Finish: How It Lingers
The "finish" is the lingering taste and sensation left after you swallow, and a great bourbon will have a finish that sticks around for a while. Weller Antique 107 does not disappoint. It leaves you with a long, warm, and satisfying finish dominated by a pleasant cinnamon spice that gently fades. The sweet and oaky notes from the palate persist, with hints of caramel and vanilla making a final appearance. This lingering warmth is what makes you want to go back for another sip. It’s a memorable conclusion that solidifies why this particular bottle is often so rare and hard to find.
How the Higher Proof Shapes the Experience
Bottled at 107 proof (53.5% alcohol by volume), Weller Antique 107 has a bit more punch than your standard bourbon, and that’s a good thing. The higher alcohol content helps carry and amplify the complex flavors, making them more vibrant and distinct. Don’t let the number intimidate you; this bourbon is exceptionally well-balanced. The proof provides a pleasant warmth and a robust body without the harsh burn you might expect. This perfect balance makes it surprisingly easy to drink neat, while also giving it enough backbone to stand up beautifully in a classic cocktail. It’s a fantastic example of how higher-proof spirits can deliver a richer, more flavorful experience.
Where Can You Find Weller Antique 107?
Let’s be honest: finding a bottle of Weller Antique 107 on a shelf is like spotting a unicorn. Its popularity has made it one of the most sought-after wheated bourbons, and the search can feel like a full-time job. Because it’s an allocated bourbon, stores receive very limited quantities, and it disappears almost as soon as it arrives. But don't get discouraged. With a bit of strategy and persistence, you can increase your chances of adding this fantastic bottle to your collection. The key is knowing where to look and how to approach the hunt.
Checking Availability at Main Street Liquor
Your first stop should always be your trusted online retailer. Here at Main Street Liquor, we work hard to get our hands on allocated bottles like Weller Antique 107. The best way to stay in the loop is to frequently check our Rare & Hard To Find collection. These bottles are often released without much warning and sell out quickly, so timing is everything. We also recommend signing up for our email newsletter. It’s the most direct way to get alerts about new arrivals, special releases, and restocks, giving you a head start before anyone else.
Retail vs. Secondary Market: What to Expect to Pay
The price tag on Weller Antique 107 can be a bit of a rollercoaster. The suggested retail price (MSRP) is around $50, but finding it for that price is rare. Due to overwhelming demand, prices on the secondary market often soar, with bottles selling for anywhere from $150 to over $200. While paying a premium online guarantees you a bottle, it’s important to decide what it’s worth to you. Part of the fun for many whiskey lovers is the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of scoring a bottle at retail.
Tips for Finding It at Local Stores
If you’re searching locally, building relationships is your best tool. Get to know the staff at your favorite liquor stores. Instead of just asking if they have Weller, talk to them about what you enjoy and become a regular customer. They’re more likely to remember you and give you a heads-up when a rare shipment arrives. Ask them how they handle allocated releases—some stores have lotteries, while others have specific delivery days. A little bit of friendly persistence can go a long way in turning a frustrating search into a successful one.
Strategies for Tracking It Down Online
When local stores run dry, the internet becomes your best friend. Beyond checking our site, you can join online bourbon communities and forums where members share tips and sightings. These groups can be a great resource for learning about release schedules in different areas. However, always be cautious when buying from unfamiliar online sources to avoid counterfeits or extreme price gouging. Your safest bet is to stick with established retailers that guarantee the authenticity of their spirits. Patience is key, as online inventories can change in an instant.
How Does Antique 107 Compare to Other Bourbons?
One of the best ways to understand a bourbon is to see how it stacks up against its peers. Weller Antique 107 has a distinct profile that puts it in a unique spot within the world of whiskey, especially when compared to others from its own family and similar wheated bourbons. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, knowing these comparisons can help you decide if Antique 107 is the right bottle for you. Let's look at how it compares to a few key players.
Weller Antique 107 vs. Special Reserve
Within the Weller family, the most common comparison is between Antique 107 and Weller Special Reserve. Think of them as siblings with different personalities. Special Reserve, bottled at 90 proof, is softer and more approachable, often considered a great entry point into wheated bourbons. Antique 107, at 107 proof, is its bolder, more complex counterpart. It offers a richer flavor profile with more pronounced notes of cherry, vanilla, and spice. While both are fantastic, your preference will likely come down to whether you enjoy a smoother, gentler pour or a more robust and flavorful experience.
The Famous Pappy Van Winkle Connection
You can't talk about Weller without mentioning Pappy Van Winkle. The connection between these two brands is a huge driver of Weller's popularity. Both lines are produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery and, most importantly, they share a similar wheated mash bill. This has led many to see Weller as "poor man's Pappy." As one reviewer notes, this scarcity fuels the myth: "If you can't get Pappy, grab a Weller." While they aren't the same—aging, barrel selection, and proofing create significant differences—the shared recipe gives them a similar foundation, making Weller an attractive and more attainable way to taste a piece of that legendary flavor profile.
Other Wheated Bourbons You Might Like
If you love the soft, sweet character of a wheated bourbon but can't get your hands on Antique 107, don't worry. There are some fantastic alternatives out there. Many experts highly recommend Maker's Mark Cask Strength as a readily available option that delivers a high-proof, flavorful experience with a similar wheated profile. Another excellent choice is Larceny Bourbon, which offers a very good and often more affordable way to enjoy those classic sweet grain notes. Exploring these other bottles is a great way to appreciate the nuances of the wheated bourbon style without the chase.
What Are People Saying About Weller Antique 107?
When a bourbon generates as much buzz as Weller Antique 107, it helps to look past the hype and see what people are actually saying. From professional critics to everyday enthusiasts, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, though everyone picks up on slightly different notes. Let's break down the reviews, the common tasting notes you'll hear, and the real reasons behind its cult-like following. This way, you can decide for yourself if it’s the right bottle for you.
Expert Reviews and Professional Ratings
Professionals often describe Weller Antique 107 as a beautifully crafted and accessible wheated bourbon. It’s frequently recommended as a fantastic bottle for those looking to explore the world of whiskey beyond the usual entry-level choices. While it might not always receive the sky-high scores of ultra-aged, top-shelf releases, it consistently earns respect for its quality and character. For instance, Wine Enthusiast magazine gave it a solid score of 88, calling it "a very well crafted whiskey." This rating reflects a spirit that is both enjoyable and well-made, confirming its status as a reliable favorite among those in the know.
Common Tasting Notes from the Community
Across forums and tasting groups, drinkers consistently praise Antique 107 for its rich and inviting profile. The aroma is often described as a warm welcome of sweet dark fruit, caramel, cinnamon, and baked apples. When you take a sip, you’ll find a warm, buttery mouthfeel that carries notes of honey, vanilla, and classic caramel. Many also pick up on deeper flavors of dark chocolate, cherry, and even plum. It’s this sweet, dessert-like quality, sometimes compared to toasted marshmallows or graham crackers, that makes it such a crowd-pleaser and a standout among other spirits.
Why This Bourbon is So In-Demand
So, why is this particular bottle so hard to find? The demand for Weller Antique 107 is fueled by a perfect storm of factors. First, all Weller bourbons are produced by the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, which gives them an instant pedigree. Second, its connection to the mythical Pappy Van Winkle line—they share the same wheated mash bill—has created a "poor man's Pappy" narrative that drives collectors wild. This reputation, combined with limited production, means it's one of the most sought-after rare finds on the market. The scarcity itself creates more hype, making people even more determined to track down a bottle.
How to Find Weller Antique 107 at Retail Price
Let's be honest: finding a bottle of Weller Antique 107 for its suggested retail price can feel like a treasure hunt. Its popularity means it disappears from shelves almost as soon as it arrives. But with a bit of strategy and persistence, you can seriously improve your chances of snagging one without overpaying. The key is to understand how allocated whiskeys like this one are distributed and to build a smart approach for tracking them down. Think of it less as a matter of luck and more as a game of preparation.
Decoding Release Schedules and Allocations
Most stores don't just get a steady supply of Weller Antique 107 to keep on the shelf. Instead, it arrives on "allocation release days," which might happen once a month or even less frequently. This means the distributor sends a very limited number of bottles to select stores. The first step is to figure out this schedule. Start by paying attention to your local liquor stores. Do they have a specific day of the week when they put out their rare bottles? Some stores are transparent about it, while others are more discreet. Following your favorite shops on social media or signing up for their newsletters can give you a heads-up on upcoming drops.
Actionable Tips for Securing a Bottle
One of the most effective strategies is simply to build a good relationship with the staff at your local liquor store. You don't have to be their best friend, but stopping in regularly, being friendly, and showing genuine interest in their products goes a long way. Ask them about Weller and let them know you're looking for it. They'll be more likely to remember you and give you a tip when a shipment comes in. You can also join local bourbon-hunting groups on Facebook or Reddit. These communities are fantastic for sharing real-time information on which stores have received their allocations and when.
Exploring Alternative Buying Strategies
If the local hunt proves fruitless, it's time to consider other avenues. First, it’s important to know the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), which is around $50. This gives you a baseline so you can spot a fair deal. While you might see Antique 107 on secondary markets for $180 or more, knowing the retail price helps you decide your limit. Keep an eye on online retailers, as some may get allocations and list them on their sites—you can check our collection of rare and hard-to-find spirits for availability. Also, many stores run lotteries or raffles for the chance to purchase allocated bottles, so be sure to enter any you come across.
Is Weller Antique 107 Worth the Hype?
So, we arrive at the big question: with all the buzz, the frantic searching, and the inflated prices, is Weller Antique 107 actually worth it? The simple answer is yes, but with a major condition—it all comes down to the price you pay. This bourbon has earned its legendary status for a reason, offering a bold and flavorful experience that stands out in the Weller lineup. It’s a fantastic pour, but its value can shift dramatically depending on how much you have to spend to get it on your bar cart. Let's break down when you should grab a bottle and when you might be better off passing.
Breaking Down Its Value at Different Price Points
Let’s talk numbers. The suggested retail price for Weller Antique 107 is around $50. If you are lucky enough to find it at or near that price, it’s an absolute must-buy. The quality you get for that cost is exceptional. However, because this bottle is so sought-after, it’s often sold on secondary markets for $80, $100, or even more. At these higher prices, the decision gets trickier. While it’s a delicious bourbon, its value diminishes as the price climbs. You have to ask yourself if it’s worth paying double or triple the retail price when there are other incredible whiskeys on the shelf for less.
The Best Ways to Drink It: Neat, Rocks, or Cocktails?
Weller Antique 107 is a wonderfully versatile bourbon that shines in several different settings. To truly appreciate its rich notes of sweet vanilla, toasted marshmallow, and warm oak, I recommend your first sip be neat. This lets you experience the full, undiluted profile the distillers at Buffalo Trace intended. If the 107 proof is a bit intense for you, add a single large ice cube or a small splash of water. This can mellow the heat and open up new layers of flavor. It also makes a fantastic foundation for a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned, where its bold character can stand up to the sugar and bitters without getting lost.
The Final Verdict: When to Buy and When to Pass
Here’s the bottom line: Weller Antique 107 is one of the most dynamic and exciting bourbons in its family. If you spot it close to its retail price, don't hesitate—grab it. You'll be rewarded with a rich, complex, and satisfying wheated bourbon that lives up to its reputation. However, if the only bottles you can find are marked up significantly, it’s okay to pass. There are many other fantastic rare and hard-to-find spirits that offer a better value. The hype is real, but your enjoyment shouldn't depend on overpaying. The best bourbon is one you can enjoy without feeling like you emptied your wallet for it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does "wheated" actually mean for the taste of a bourbon? Think of it as the difference between wheat bread and rye bread. Most bourbons use rye as the secondary grain, which gives them a spicy, peppery kick. A wheated bourbon, like Weller Antique 107, swaps out that rye for wheat. This results in a noticeably softer, smoother, and sweeter flavor profile. You'll taste more notes of caramel, vanilla, and baked goods instead of that classic rye spice.
Why is it so difficult to find a bottle of Weller Antique 107? The search for this bottle is tough because of a perfect storm of factors. First, it's made at the highly respected Buffalo Trace Distillery, which gives it an immediate mark of quality. Second, it shares its core grain recipe with the legendary and ultra-rare Pappy Van Winkle line, creating a massive amount of hype. When you combine that reputation with limited production, you get a bourbon that is in extremely high demand and disappears from shelves almost instantly.
Is Weller Antique 107 just a cheaper version of Pappy Van Winkle? While they share the same wheated grain recipe, they are definitely not the same whiskey. Think of them as cousins, not twins. Key differences in the aging process, the specific barrels chosen for maturation, and the final proof create two very distinct flavor profiles. Weller gives you a fantastic glimpse into that famous wheated style, but Pappy's extended aging gives it a depth and complexity that sets it apart.
What is a reasonable price to pay for Weller Antique 107? If you find it anywhere near its suggested retail price of about $50, you should absolutely buy it—it's an incredible value. However, due to its popularity, you'll often see it priced much higher on secondary markets, sometimes well over $150. While it's a delicious bourbon, its value becomes questionable at those prices. A good rule of thumb is to decide what the experience is worth to you personally and not get too caught up in the hype.
If I can't find Antique 107, what are some good alternatives? Don't worry, you can still enjoy a fantastic wheated bourbon without the frustrating search. For a similar high-proof and flavorful experience, Maker's Mark Cask Strength is an excellent and widely available option. Another great choice is Larceny Bourbon, which also delivers that classic smooth and sweet wheated character and is typically very easy to find at a great price.