The Frankfort, Kentucky based Buffalo Trace Distillery has announced the launch of the second release in its experimental Daniel Weller series.

Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat (47% ABV) is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey produced using a spelt wheat recipe.

Launched in 2023 with Emmer Wheat, the series honours the pioneering spirit of Daniel Weller – grandfather of William Larue Weller and an early contributor to the family’s bourbon-making legacy – by exploring how individual wheat varietals influence the flavour profile of Weller, the original wheated bourbon. Each release is designed as a focused experiment, inviting a deeper appreciation of how a single variable can meaningfully shape the final whiskey.

Recognised 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 flavour potential, but also for its historical significance as one of the earliest cultivated wheat varieties, reflecting the distillery’s commitment to honouring tradition while embracing change through purposeful experimentation.

By using spelt in place of rye as the secondary grain, this release builds on the soft, smooth profile that defines Weller bourbons, while allowing the wheat’s character to shape the whiskey’s aroma, texture and flavour.

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 continued a family tradition of distillation rooted in early 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 Spelt Wheat is said to open with a nutty, biscuit-forward nose shaped by the spelt grain. Aromas of freshly baked biscuits, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg are supported by light, fresh fruit and subtle leather, with underlying notes of butterscotch, caramel, vanilla and oak. On the palate, dried fruit and gentle sweetness are layered with baking spice, while a restrained floral, tea-like character adds dimension. The finish is long and composed, carrying soft fruit, nuttiness and light spice, with a fading, lingering sweetness.

Commenting on the launch, Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery, said: “Rather than leaning on barrel innovation, we chose to strip the process back and let the wheat speak for itself. By avoiding specialised 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.”

Limited in quantity, Daniel Weller Spelt Wheat will be available later this month from selected retailers in the US, for a RRP of $549.99.