If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of Weller’s Bourbon or heard the buzz surrounding it, you’ve probably wondered:
Who actually makes Weller’s Bourbon?
The answer is simple—yet steeped in history and craftsmanship.
Weller’s Bourbon is Made by Buffalo Trace Distillery
Weller’s Bourbon is produced by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Owned by the Sazerac Company, Buffalo Trace is one of the most respected and award-winning distilleries in the United States. It’s known for crafting some of the finest American whiskeys on the market, including Pappy Van Winkle, Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon itself.
The Weller line is part of Buffalo Trace’s wheated bourbon portfolio, using wheat instead of rye as the secondary grain. This gives Weller its signature smoothness, sweetness, and softer finish—qualities that have made it a favorite among both casual sippers and collectors alike.
The Legacy of William Larue Weller
The Weller name pays homage to William Larue Weller, a 19th-century whiskey pioneer credited with popularizing the use of wheat in bourbon mash bills. He believed that replacing rye with wheat would produce a smoother, more approachable spirit—and history has proven him right.
Buffalo Trace honors his legacy through the Weller line and the William Larue Weller bottle, part of the annual Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC)—one of the most coveted bourbon releases each year.
Why the Connection to Pappy Van Winkle?
Here’s the fun part: Weller and Pappy Van Winkle share the same mash bill and are aged in the same warehouses at Buffalo Trace. In fact, many refer to Weller 12 Year as “Baby Pappy,” since it’s made using nearly identical ingredients and techniques—but at a fraction of the price (if you can find it).
Conclusion
So, who makes Weller’s Bourbon? The answer is Buffalo Trace Distillery—a name synonymous with quality, tradition, and innovation. Whether you’re sipping Weller Special Reserve or hunting for a bottle of Antique 107, you’re experiencing a bourbon crafted with care, history, and time-honored techniques.
