At the 2025 London Spirits Competition (LSC), Buffalo Trace’s WL Weller Antique 107 claimed the coveted Spirit of the Year award. The bourbon scored 99 points, outpacing all other whiskies and marking the first whiskey to win since the Bourbon category opened in 2022. Previous Spirit of the Year winners have been gins or rums.
Strong Showing from Buffalo Trace’s Antique Series
Buffalo Trace’s broader Antique Series also performed well. Lancaster Ale Cask Rare Bourbon tied for the top American whiskey with 99 points. Weller 12 Year Old followed closely with 98 points. In the rye category, Thomas H. Handy Rye and Sazerac 18 Year Old Rye each earned 97 points. Other Weller releases—CYPB and William Larue Weller—scored 93, while Weller Special Reserve took 92.
What the Judges Look For
At LSC, spirits that earn 95 to 100 points are deemed “excellent in every way.” Judges score quality and value during blind tastings, then assess packaging. Antique 107’s red-and-gold label and glass decanter earned high marks for presentation, while its flavor profile secured top tasting scores.
Tasting Notes Highlight Spice and Smooth Finish
LSC’s official notes praise Antique 107 for its depth and balance:
Nose: Warm wood and gentle spice
Palate: Dried fruits and toasted nuts
Finish: Smooth, peppery with light malt
Buffalo Trace adds that the bourbon’s aroma features “sweet floral notes and vanilla,” with a palate of fruit, spice and a cinnamon close.
The Weller Lineup and Wheat Recipe
The Weller series shares Buffalo Trace’s red winter wheat mash bill. The line includes Antique 107, Weller 12 Year, Weller Special Reserve, CYPB, Full Proof, Single Barrel and William Larue Weller. Antique 107 carries no age statement but is generally aged six to eight years and bottled at 107 proof. Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley notes it strikes “the perfect balance of sweetness, proof and flavor.”
Availability and Price
WL Weller Antique 107 retails between $50 and $60 nationwide, making it one of the more accessible Weller expressions. However, in states with less pricing regulation, some retailers may charge a premium. Collectors and casual drinkers alike are advised to shop around for the best price.
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