Buffalo Trace Distillery announces the release of Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat, the second edition from its experimental Daniel Weller series.
Bottled at 94 proof, the expression marks a clear departure from traditional Weller wheated bourbons, reaching its flavor and balance after 10 years of maturation.
Recognized for its subtle sweetness and gentle nuttiness, spelt wheat is rarely used in whiskey production. Cultivated for thousands of years primarily in Europe, spelt is closely associated with traditional, small-scale grain farming and artisanal baking. The distillation team at Buffalo Trace was drawn to spelt not only for its flavor potential, but for its historical significance as one of the earliest cultivated wheat varieties. By using spelt in place of rye as the secondary grain, this release builds upon the smooth profile that defines Weller bourbons while allowing the wheat’s character to shape the whiskey’s aroma, texture, and flavor.
“Rather than leaning on barrel innovation, we chose to strip the process back and let the wheat speak for itself,” says Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery. “By avoiding specialized barrel treatments and techniques, we were able to focus on how spelt wheat’s natural sweetness and distinct character influence the Weller mashbill. Its nuanced profile makes it ideal for experiments where the grain’s personality is meant to shine.”
The foundation for this experimental work was laid by Daniel Weller, who played a formative role in the early development of bourbon distilling. After settling in Kentucky in 1794, he carried a family tradition of distillation, rooted in American barter culture. By operating and leasing his still to proprietors, Weller expanded both access to and influence within the growing spirits trade, embedding distilling into his family’s legacy. His entrepreneurial approach laid the groundwork for future generations and helped shape the wheated bourbon tradition that would later define the Weller name in American whiskey history.
“Daniel Weller set a standard for ingenuity that still guides us today,” adds Charley Costa Jr., Brand Manager for Daniel Weller. “This line reflects that same pioneering mindset. By experimenting with distinctive wheat varietals like spelt, we’re honoring Daniel Weller’s legacy while challenging ourselves to explore new dimensions of flavor. Each release is an opportunity to connect our history to the future of American whiskey.”
Launched in 2023 with Emmer Wheat, the line honors the pioneering spirit of Daniel Weller, grandfather of William Larue Weller and an early contributor to the family’s bourbon-making legacy. Each release is designed as a focused experiment, inviting deeper appreciation for how a single variable can meaningfully shape the final whiskey.
Each Daniel Weller release is stored in a 750ml glass bottle with a unique compass stopper. In homage to Daniel Weller, the coordinates of his farm near Botland, Kentucky, are inscribed beneath the stopper.
Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat is available in limited quantities for $549.99.
