Difference Between Weller Antique And Special Reserve
Introduction
Weller Antique and Special Reserve are two of the most popular bourbons today. They are both produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, USA. Despite coming from the same distillery, these two bourbons have different characteristics and are made using different processes. In this article, we will explore the differences between Weller Antique and Special Reserve.
What is Weller Antique?
Weller Antique is a wheated bourbon that is aged for at least seven years. It is made using corn, wheat, and barley, with the wheat making up a larger percentage of the mash bill. This results in a sweeter and smoother taste compared to bourbons that use rye in their mash bill. Weller Antique has a higher alcohol content of 107 proof, which gives it a bold and robust flavor.
What is Special Reserve?
Special Reserve, on the other hand, is a wheated bourbon that is aged for at least six years. It is made using the same mash bill as Weller Antique, but with a lower alcohol content of 90 proof. This gives it a milder and smoother taste, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a less intense bourbon. Special Reserve is also more readily available compared to Weller Antique.
Taste
The main difference between Weller Antique and Special Reserve is their taste. Weller Antique has a bolder and more robust flavor due to its higher alcohol content. It has notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a spicy finish. Special Reserve, on the other hand, has a milder and smoother taste with notes of honey, butterscotch, and cinnamon. It has a shorter finish compared to Weller Antique.
Aging
Another difference between the two bourbons is their aging process. Weller Antique is aged for at least seven years, while Special Reserve is aged for at least six years. This extra year of aging gives Weller Antique a more complex flavor profile, with deeper notes of oak and vanilla. Special Reserve, on the other hand, has a simpler flavor profile due to its shorter aging period.
Availability
Weller Antique is a highly sought-after bourbon due to its bold flavor and limited availability. It is often difficult to find and can be expensive. Special Reserve, on the other hand, is more readily available and can be found in most liquor stores. It is also more affordable compared to Weller Antique.
Conclusion
Weller Antique and Special Reserve are both excellent bourbons that are worth trying. They are made using the same mash bill and are both wheated bourbons. However, their differences in aging, alcohol content, and availability give them distinct characteristics and flavors. If you prefer a bolder and more intense bourbon, go for Weller Antique. If you prefer a milder and smoother bourbon, go for Special Reserve.