A Rare Chapter in Australian Whiskey History
A landmark moment for Australian whiskey enthusiasts unfolded from 20–22 February 2026 at Wisemans Retreat — the first-ever Australian pour of Weller Millennium. Hosted by Ray Daniel and John Jarvis for Whisky Wayfarers, this immersive weekend blended rare bourbon tastings, exceptional food, riverside luxury, and a passionate community.
From targeted masterclasses to unforgettable dining experiences, this was more than an event — it was a journey into the heart of American whiskey. Every pour, every plate, every conversation designed to elevate the experience.
As attendee Justin Charell put it:
"Whisky Wayfarers Wisemans Retreat weekend was something else! From a seamless check-in to finding a gift pack of goodies in the room, the weekend had kicked off… ready to start the festivities sipping on a myriad of cocktails before plate after plate of chef created finger food distracts us from the friendships made and renewed."
— Justin CharellCocktails, Connection & Anticipation
The weekend opened in style with a relaxed evening of cocktails and canapés. Classic bourbon serves, delicious beers from our friends at Esker Beer Co., Old Fashioneds, Boulevardiers, and Kentucky Mules flowed freely — paired with a standout selection of bites, including pulled pork croquettes, beef tartare, smoked trout pâté, and indulgent sticky date pudding.
But beyond the food and drink, this first evening set the tone: community, connection, and shared passion. Friendships were sparked, old ones rekindled, and the anticipation for what lay ahead quietly built.
Bourbon Meets Breakfast
Saturday began with a continental breakfast elevated by whiskey creativity. Fresh pastries, charcuterie, sourdough, and Bircher muesli were complemented by affogatos featuring bourbon-infused ice cream — a small but memorable highlight.
It was the first sign that this weekend wasn't just about tasting whiskey — it was about experiencing it in new and unexpected ways.
Justin captured it perfectly:
"There's a need I didn't know I had!"
— Justin Charell
The 1792 Masterclass & Oyster Pairing
Late morning delivered a standout educational moment: a guided tasting of 1792 Bourbon expressions. Guests explored Small Batch, Sweet Wheat, Full Proof, and the rare 12-Year-Old — all paired with freshly shucked Wapengo oysters from Buckley's Oyster Bar, courtesy of resident oyster and whisky savant Simon McGoram. A combination that surprised and delighted.
"The weekend really drove home for me how fantastic well aged bourbon is. Top 3 for me were the Millennium, Weller 12yr and O&O Chapter 1 1792 12yr… sometimes character ticks enough boxes to win out."
— Scott AllanKentucky Lunch & A Glimpse into the Future
A hearty Kentucky-style lunch followed — brisket, slaw, corn bread, and rolls — grounding the day in authentic American flavours.
Whisky Wayfarers Chapter Two
Then came a defining moment. In collaboration with That Boutique-y Whisky Company, guests were treated to an exclusive first look — and first taste — of the next Wayfarers release.
Whisky Wayfarers Exclusive: 11-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
61.7% ABV · 700ml · Single barrel, distilled at one of Kentucky's Big 5, bottled at barrel strength. Non-chill filtered. Eleven years in American oak delivers deep caramel, vanilla, and oak spice. The barrel strength brings weight and intensity. This isn't a delicate sipper — it's bold, complex, and built for those who want bourbon with character.
That Boutique-y Whisky Company doesn't do mass production. Single barrels. Small batches. Each bottle tells the story of one barrel, one distillery, one moment in time. No blending. No shortcuts. Just bourbon in its purest form.
Only available to Whisky Wayfarers. Learn more here.
"Beaming with all the right notes, this whiskey is simply incredible and has never been released, anywhere."
— Justin Charell
Time to Unwind: The Luxury of Choice
The afternoon offered something rare in structured events: freedom. Guests explored the grounds of Wisemans Retreat, relaxed by the river, splashed in the pool, or simply took time to reflect and connect. That flexibility is what made the experience so personal.
"If you like your whisky dialled up to 120 then this is the event for you. If you just want to relax and take it slow then this is the event for you… Ray, John and the team just make it so simple to enjoy great whisky and great company 'any way you like it'."
— Andrew ChristyThe Weller Dinner: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Lineup
Saturday evening was the centrepiece — The Weller Dinner. A progression of iconic expressions, each paired with a thoughtfully curated menu: farmed garden vegetables, charcuterie, beef tartare, slow-braised beef cheeks, butterflied garlic prawns, and rich desserts.
- Weller 12
- Weller Antique 107
- Weller C.Y.P.B.
- Weller Full Proof
- William Larue Weller
- 1 of 1 — A Hidden Chapter
- Weller Millennium
The experience was immersive, indulgent, and deeply memorable.
"The food alongside these whiskies was incredible, the slow cooked beef cheeks being a stand out. And how was the star of the show? … Weller Millennium was amazing! A rare opportunity was had by everyone who shares a common passion, American Whiskey."
— Justin Charell
"What a weekend! My top three: Ray's Hidden Chapter 1 of 1 Weller, TBWC 11yo American Bourbon cask 1201, and of course the Weller Millennium."
— Simon McGoram
"Food amazing and as an oyster lover, I cannot remember tasting better… A great weekend and if you tossed up whether to go and didn't, I suggest you get your skates on and be at the next one."
— Ross GerardA Gentle Send-Off
The final morning offered a long-table farm breakfast — a relaxed close to an extraordinary weekend. There was no rush. Just good coffee, great food, and conversations lingering a little longer than usual.
Because everyone knew they'd just been part of something special.
A Journey
What made this weekend truly exceptional wasn't just the rarity of the whiskey. It was the balance — some education without pretension, luxury without stiffness, structure with space to breathe. It catered equally to seasoned collectors and those just beginning their whisky journey.
"A must event for any serious whisky drinkers or someone who wants to know more than what is just on the label. A whisky journey event you don't want to miss."
— Andrew ChristyThe Whisky Wayfarers Weller Millennium Weekend didn't just deliver on expectation — it quietly redefined them. It proved that Australia is ready, and worthy, of world-class whiskey experiences. That community matters just as much as curation. And that when passion leads, unforgettable moments follow.
For those who attended, it's a story they'll tell for years. For those who missed it, consider this your notice.
The bar has been raised. And the next journey is already calling.
