Background

First off, a big thanks to Cinder BBQ in DC for continuing to enable me, as it was there that I was able to taste both of these. Weller Single Barrel launched in June 2020, and closing in on three years later I finally had a chance to taste it! I’ll be honest, I have very conflicted feelings on the main Weller line (the consistently exceptional WLW excluded). For me, especially when you take into account scarcity, it is basically a good Weller Full Proof pick or bust. I’m curious then to see if Weller Single Barrel breaks that mold.
 

There’s not a lot to say about William Larue Weller that hasn’t been said already honestly. The full fact sheet for the 2022 is available here on Buffalo Trace’s website, but this 12 year release clocks in at 127.4 proof. Rather than rehash familiar ground there, let’s get on to the reviews!

Weller Single Barrel (NAS, 97 Proof)

Nose: Melted caramel chews, milk chocolate, and a hint of raspberries.

Palate: Velvety, caramel, again the occasional berry note.

Finish: Wet wood, cinnamon, a bit more caramel, and a bit of vanilla… but honestly this is a bummer finish.

Good to Very Good (5.5/10)

Overall: Honestly, at this point I’m probably better off pointing you at this legendary review from u/Prepreludesh. As I was drinking this, I rode the roller coaster from “oh nice nose, really solid palate… crappy finish” all while staring longingly at the cheaper, superior, Weller Full Proof pick sitting on the bar. It’s not like this is bad either! It’s just that I like it maybe a smidge more than OWA, and definitely less than any Full Proof pick I’ve had. Not to mention, it’s near impossible to justify at a significantly higher price than either of those.

William Larue Weller 2022 (12 Years, 124.7 Proof)

Nose: Big berry notes, raspberries and blueberries, buttercream frosting

Palate: Berries again, the perfect amount of barrel influence and spice. Cinnamon sugar, vanilla. A hinttt of anise.

Finish: Cinnamon red hots, oak, long and spicy. Little hot but not toooo hot.

Incredible (9/10)

Overall: A phenomenal mix of dark sugars, fruits, and some lovely late heat. For a moment, the finish borders on being a little brash- but ultimately pulls it off. I count myself as fortunate to get to try this.