In the world of bourbon, certain bottles become legends—not only for their flavor but for the loyal following they inspire. Weller Antique 107 is one such whiskey. Part of the iconic Weller lineup, which includes other sought-after expressions like Weller Special Reserve and the elusive Weller 12 Year, Antique 107 holds a special place for those who appreciate high-proof, wheated bourbon with character and complexity. Often seen as an affordable alternative to the elusive Pappy Van Winkle line—due to its shared Buffalo Trace DNA and wheated mashbill—Weller Antique 107 has carved out its own legacy through bold flavor, strong structure, and limited availability.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon collector or a newcomer exploring wheated expressions, Weller Antique 107 is a bottle worth understanding and, if you’re lucky, tasting. Its rising popularity has made it harder to find, but its reputation continues to grow with every pour.
The Heritage of Weller Antique 107
To appreciate Weller Antique 107, it’s essential to explore its deep-rooted history and the legacy of the man behind the name. William Larue Weller was a pioneer in the American whiskey scene, known for being among the first distillers to use wheat instead of rye in the mashbill, creating a softer, more rounded profile in bourbon.
Origins of the Weller Brand
The Weller brand traces its beginnings back to the mid-1800s, when William Larue Weller began selling his “Old Weller” whiskey in Louisville, Kentucky. Over the years, the brand changed hands but maintained a reputation for quality and innovation. Eventually, it became part of the Buffalo Trace family, which also produces other revered labels like Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, and Pappy Van Winkle. The connection to Pappy has fueled the Weller mystique, as they share the same mashbill and warehouse aging methods, making Weller Antique 107 a “poor man’s Pappy” in the eyes of many enthusiasts.
Introduction of Antique 107
Weller Antique 107 takes its name from both its high proof—107—and its antique branding, which evokes the heritage and tradition of classic Kentucky bourbon. It offers a bolder take on wheated bourbon compared to its softer sibling, Weller Special Reserve. First introduced as part of the broader Weller line, Antique 107 has become a flagship for those seeking flavor-packed bourbon at a relatively accessible price point, at least compared to other cult favorites.
The Wheated Mashbill Advantage
Unlike traditional bourbons that use rye as a secondary grain, Weller Antique 107 uses wheat, along with corn and malted barley. This substitution contributes to a smoother, richer mouthfeel and allows other flavor notes—like vanilla, caramel, and spice—to shine through more clearly. The wheated mashbill is a cornerstone of Weller’s identity and a key reason why Antique 107 is so loved.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Experience
When it comes to bourbon, the experience is about more than just taste—it’s about aroma, texture, finish, and the way each sip evolves over time. Weller Antique 107 delivers a dynamic experience that appeals to both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs.
Nose: Inviting and Full of Character
The aroma of Weller Antique 107 greets you with a warm bouquet that speaks to its wheated roots. Notes of rich caramel, baked apples, and honeyed oak swirl together, along with subtle hints of cinnamon and baking spice. The higher proof is noticeable on the nose, but not overpowering, adding a sense of excitement and depth to the opening impression.
Palate: Balanced Heat and Sweetness
On the palate, Weller Antique 107 delivers a bold and flavorful punch. The entry is sweet, with layers of brown sugar, toffee, and vanilla. As it develops, a wave of spice rolls in—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a slight peppery bite—balanced by undertones of toasted oak and dark cherry. The wheated mashbill softens the experience, making the high proof more approachable while still delivering a robust flavor profile that lingers and evolves.
Finish: Long, Warming, and Memorable
The finish of Weller Antique 107 is one of its most celebrated features. It lingers with a satisfying warmth, offering lingering notes of caramelized sugar, oak tannin, and a touch of spice. The 107 proof allows for a lasting impression without overwhelming the senses, making it a great sipper neat or with a splash of water to open up the profile further.
Collectibility and Market Impact
Weller Antique 107 has become more than just a bottle of bourbon—it’s a prized item in collections, a favorite at bourbon tastings, and a frequent topic in whiskey forums. The growing demand for this expression has led to supply shortages and inflated prices on the secondary market, but its status continues to rise.
Limited Availability and Allocations
In many regions, Weller Antique 107 is released in small allocations, with bottles disappearing from shelves within hours—or even minutes. This scarcity isn’t due to limited production alone; it’s a result of immense demand, driven in part by social media and bourbon communities that treat Weller as essential to any serious whiskey lineup. As more people become aware of its value and flavor profile, the competition to find it increases.
Secondary Market and Pricing Trends
While the suggested retail price for Weller Antique107 is quite reasonable—usually around $50—the reality in the secondary market is far different. It’s not uncommon to see bottles priced two to four times higher depending on location and bottle condition. This has made the hunt for Weller a bit of a sport, with enthusiasts tracking shipments, joining allocation lists, or networking with local store owners to improve their odds.
Comparison with Other Weller Expressions
Among the Weller family, Antique 107 is often viewed as the perfect middle ground. It’s bolder and higher proof than Weller Special Reserve, but more accessible than Weller 12 Year, which is often priced well above its MSRP. For those seeking a powerful, flavorful wheated bourbon that can be enjoyed without guilt, Weller Antique107 is the sweet spot.
Best Ways to Enjoy Weller Antique 107
A great whiskey deserves to be enjoyed with intention, and there are several ways to appreciate Weller Antique 107, depending on your palate and setting. Whether you’re sipping solo, sharing with friends, or pairing it with food, the versatility of this bourbon shines through.
Some purists prefer to enjoy it neat to experience the full range of flavors and warmth. In this form, you get the intensity and complexity that makes this bourbon special. Others prefer a splash of water or a large ice cube, which can open up the aromatics and soften the spice without diluting the experience too much. Weller Antique 107 also holds its own in premium cocktails. It makes an exceptional Old Fashioned, bringing sweetness and spice that elevates the drink, or in a Manhattan, where its smooth character pairs beautifully with vermouth and bitters.
No matter how it’s enjoyed, the most important thing is to respect the whiskey for what it is: a rich, full-bodied bourbon with history, heart, and an unforgettable flavor.
