This is a pre-order item—it is expected to arrive March 2026

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 700mL 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

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 700mL 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 700mL 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.