Noah's Mill, produced by Willett Distillery, initially had a 15-year age statement. However, the current bottlings of Noah's Mill no longer carry an age statement. Instead, they are labeled as “NAS” (No Age Statement). This means that the exact age of the bourbon is not disclosed on the bottle.
The change from a 15-year age statement to NAS can be attributed to the fact that the barrels used for Noah's Mill are sourced from various distilleries. Willett Distillery does not produce enough bourbon to meet the demand for Noah's Mill, so they source barrels from other distilleries to create their blend.
The exact composition and age range of the bourbons used in Noah's Mill is not officially published by Willett. However, there has been speculation that the blend includes bourbons ranging from 4 to 20 years old. This would suggest that Noah's Mill is a combination of bourbons of various ages, resulting in a complex and layered flavor profile.
It is important to note that the absence of an age statement does not necessarily mean that the bourbon is of lower quality. Age is just one factor that contributes to the overall character and taste of a whiskey. Other factors, such as the mash bill, the distillation process, and the barrel maturation, also play a significant role in shaping the final product.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered many whiskies with and without age statements. While age can provide some indication of the whiskey's flavor and complexity, it is not the sole determinant of quality. Some NAS whiskies can be incredibly well-crafted and offer a unique drinking experience.
In the case of Noah's Mill, the focus seems to be on creating a blend that showcases a balance of flavors and aromas, rather than emphasizing a specific age statement. The sourced barrels allow Willett Distillery to create a consistent and enjoyable bourbon that appeals to a wide range of whiskey enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the exact age of Noah's Mill remains undisclosed, and it is up to the consumer to decide whether the absence of an age statement is a crucial factor in their purchasing decision. It is always recommended to taste the whiskey and judge it based on personal preference and enjoyment rather than solely relying on age statements.