Buffalo Trace Unveils Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat
Buffalo Trace Distillery has announced the release of Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat, the second edition from its experimental Daniel Weller series.
Launched in 2023 with Emmer Wheat, the line honors Daniel Weller – grandfather of William Larue Weller and an early contributor to the family’s bourbon-making legacy – by examining how individual wheat varietals impact the flavor profile of Weller, the Original Wheated Bourbon.
Spelt wheat is rarely used in whiskey production. 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, according to the company. By using spelt in place of rye as the secondary grain, this release is meant to build upon the soft, 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.”
Bottled at 94 proof, Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat marks a clear departure from classic Weller wheated bourbons, reaching its ideal flavor and balance after 10 years of maturation, according to the company. It opens with a nutty, biscuit-forward nose shaped by the spelt grain. Aromas of freshly baked cookies, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg are supported by light fresh fruit, subtle leather, with underlying notes of butterscotch, caramel, vanilla and oak, according to distillery-provided notes. On the palate, dried fruit and gentle sweetness are layered with baking spice, with a subtle floral, tea-like character. The finish has soft fruit, nuttiness and light spice with a fading, lingering sweetness.
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, according to the company. 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.”
Each Daniel Weller release comes in a 750-ml. glass bottle with a compass stopper. In homage to Daniel Weller, the coordinates of his farm near Botland, Kentucky, are inscribed beneath the stopper.
Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat will be available in limited quantities to distributors, shipping to select retailers, bars and restaurants across the U.S. starting March 2026 at a suggested retail price of $549.99 per bottle.
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