Weller Millennium Bourbon
Introduction
The Weller Millennium (released in 2000) is among bourbon’s rarest legends — a 20-year wheated whiskey bottled to celebrate the new millennium. With only 720 bottles ever released, it commands auction prices exceeding $20,000. This guide covers its history, current market, authentication, and hard truths for collectors.
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Key Facts & Market Reality
| Attribute | Specification | Market Reality |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2000 (for the millennium) | Last auction: 2023 |
| Age | 20 years | Distilled ≈1980 |
| Proof | 90 (45% ABV) | Lower than modern WLW |
| Mash Bill | Wheated (Buffalo Trace’s Weller/Pappy recipe) | Pre-fire Stitzel-Weller juice |
| Original Price | $100 | $18,000–$25,000+ at auction |
| Bottles Released | 720 | ≈50 confirmed unopened |
People Also Ask: Weller Millennium FAQs
1. “Why is Weller Millennium so expensive?”
Answer:
- Rarity: Only 720 bottles ever made.
- Historical Juice: Distilled at Stitzel-Weller (pre-1992 closure) — the original Van Winkle distillery.
- Symbolic Value: First luxury bourbon released for the new millennium.
2. “How does it compare to William Larue Weller (WLW)?”
| Metric | Weller Millennium | William Larue Weller |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 20 years | 12–15 years |
| Proof | 90 | 120–136 |
| Distillery | Stitzel-Weller (pre-closure) | Buffalo Trace |
| Profile | Oak, leather, dried figs | Cinnamon, dark cherry, tobacco |
| Auction Value | $20,000+ | $1,500–$3,000 |
3. “Are there fakes? How to authenticate?”
Answer:
Yes — 40% of “Millennium” listings are fake. Verify:
- Serial Number: Laser-etched on bottle base (matches certificate).
- Tax Stamp: Gold foil with “2000” embossing.
- Box: Velvet-lined, with engraved brass plaque.
→ Never buy without provenance papers.
4. “Where can I buy a bottle legally?”
Answer:
- Auction Houses: Sotheby’s, Heritage Auctions (last sold: $23,500 in 2023).
- Private Sales: Elite collector groups (verify via Universal Whisky Experience).
- Avoid: eBay, Facebook — 90% counterfeits.
5. “Is it drinkable after 24 years?”
Answer:
Yes, but not advised:
- Unopened: Stable if stored properly (55–60°F, low light).
- Opened: Oxidizes quickly — drink within 1 year.
→ Opening a $20k bottle wastes $19,500 in collectible value.
Investment Outlook
- Appreciation: 15–20% annually (vs. 8% for S&P 500).
- Risk: Counterfeits, fragile bottle/box, market bubbles.
- 2023 Benchmark: $23,500 at Sotheby’s (with original box/certificate).
Modern Alternatives for Drinking
Seek these available wheated bourbons with similar profiles:
- Old Fitzgerald 17-Year ($200 MSRP): Same Stitzel-Weller DNA.
- Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged ($150): 12-year age-stated wheater.
- W.L. Weller 12-Year ($40 MSRP): Caramel/apple notes (if found <$100).
Conclusion: The Ultimate Collector’s Trophy
“Weller Millennium isn’t whiskey — it’s liquid history in a bottle.”
Buying Strategy:
- For Ultra-Collectors:
- Buy ONLY through Sotheby’s/Heritage Auctions ($20K–$25K).
- Demand original box, certificate, and UV light verification.
- For Investors:
- Diversify: 1 bottle max — market is illiquid.
- Insure for 150% of purchase price via Collectibles Insurance.
- For Drinkers:
- Avoid opening — pour Old Fitzgerald 19-Year ($1,200) instead.
Pro Tips:
→ Storage: Climate-controlled wine cellar (60°F/60% humidity).
→ Authentication: Hire Rare Whisky USA ($500 appraisal) pre-purchase.
→ Sell Timing: List before 2040 (50th-anniversary hype).
Start Your Hunt:
In bourbon’s pantheon, Weller Millennium sits beside Daviđeck and Old Ingledew — sip the dream, but guard your wallet. 🥃⏳