Lunar New Year Collectible Edition – Year of the Horse
The iconic Weller 12 Year Old Wheated Bourbon returns in a highly limited-edition "Year of the Horse" release, honoring the Chinese Zodiac. Bottled in a globally exclusive 750mL format and housed in a black and gold commemorative tube, this collectible release celebrates both tradition and rarity.
Crafted at the world-renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, Weller 12 is a standout in the wheated bourbon category—aged for a full twelve years to deliver depth, elegance, and a smooth, mature profile that’s long been coveted by connoisseurs. This 2026 Lunar New Year edition is dressed to impress, making it a perfect collector’s bottle or luxury gift.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Caramel, toasted oak, vanilla custard, and dried cherry.
Palate:
Rich toffee, layered oak, soft wheat, fig, baking spice, and hints of cocoa powder.
Finish:
Long and silky with warm vanilla, toasted almond, and gentle wood tannins.
Key Features
-
12-Year Age Statement – Extended aging delivers exceptional smoothness, depth, and oak-driven complexity
-
Wheated Mash Bill – Replaces rye with wheat for a softer, rounder mouthfeel
-
Buffalo Trace Distillery – Crafted by one of the most respected distilleries in the world
-
Lunar New Year “Year of the Horse” Edition – Special-edition artwork and commemorative packaging
-
700mL International Format – Scarcer size not commonly available in the U.S. market
-
90 Proof (45% ABV) – Perfect balance of richness and approachability
-
Highly Collectible Presentation – Black-and-gold tube ideal for display or gifting
-
Pappy Van Winkle Mash Bill Lineage – Often regarded as one of the closest comparisons available
Comparison with Other Weller Expressions
| Expression |
Age |
ABV |
Mash Bill |
Notable Features |
| Weller Special Reserve |
NAS |
45% |
Wheated |
Smooth, easy-drinking entry level |
| Weller 12 Year |
12 Years |
45% |
Wheated |
Deep, oaky, complex, mature |
| Weller Antique 107 |
NAS |
53.5% |
Wheated |
Bolder, spicier, higher proof |
| Weller Full Proof |
NAS |
57% |
Wheated |
Rich, uncut, and unfiltered |
Fun Fact: Weller 12 shares the exact same wheated mash bill and distillation location as Pappy Van Winkle. It’s often referred to as “Baby Pappy” for good reason.
Collector’s Corner
-
Global 750mL Format – Not typically sold in U.S. domestic markets
-
Elegant Lunar New Year Gift Packaging – Golden horses and calligraphy on matte black
-
Perfect for Display or Gifting – Especially during New Year festivities or for those born in the Year of the Horse
-
High Secondary Market Demand – Weller 12 in collectible packaging consistently appreciates over time
Food Pairing Suggestions
-
Char Siu Pork – Caramelized umami matches the rich wheated sweetness
-
Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt – Balances the vanilla and oak notes
-
Aged Gouda or Comté Cheese – Complements nutty and spicy undertones
FAQs
Q: Is this the same bourbon as standard Weller 12?
A: Yes. The liquid inside is the classic Weller 12 Year wheated bourbon; the difference is the exclusive Year of the Horse Lunar New Year packaging and 750mL international format.
Q: Is this bottle rare or limited?
A: Yes. This is a limited-edition global release tied to the Lunar New Year, produced in smaller quantities than standard Weller 12 bottles.
Q: Is this suitable for collectors?
A: Absolutely. Weller 12 already commands strong collector interest, and Lunar New Year editions historically perform even better due to their unique artwork and cultural significance.
Q: Can this be opened and enjoyed, or should it be kept sealed?
A: Both. It’s an excellent sipping bourbon, but many buyers choose to keep it sealed for long-term collection or display value.
Q: Does this come with the original packaging?
A: Yes. The bottle includes the original limited-edition presentation tube, making it ideal for gifting or resale.
Q: How does this compare to Pappy Van Winkle?
A: Weller 12 shares the same wheated mash bill and distillery origin as Pappy Van Winkle, making it one of the closest and most respected alternatives available.
