As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to share my knowledge about the bourbon offerings from Willett Distillery. Willett is a renowned distillery located in Bardstown, Kentucky, known for its exquisite range of bourbons. They have a rich history dating back to the 1930s when the family began distilling whiskey.
Willett produces a variety of bourbons, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. Let's dive into some of their notable offerings:
1. Willett Pot Still Reserve: This is perhaps their most iconic bourbon, known for its beautiful pot still shaped bottle. It is a small-batch bourbon with a high rye content, resulting in a spicy and robust flavor profile. The Pot Still Reserve offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a smooth and lengthy finish.
2. Willett Family Estate Bottled Small Batch: This bourbon is crafted from a select number of barrels, hand-picked by the Willett family. It is a single-barrel bourbon, meaning each bottle is sourced from a single barrel, giving it a distinct character. The Family Estate Small Batch offers a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of dark fruits, toffee, and toasted oak.
3. Willett Family Estate Rye: While primarily known for their bourbons, Willett also produces exceptional rye whiskies. The Family Estate Rye is a standout offering, crafted from a high rye mash bill. It delivers a spicy and bold flavor profile with hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness. This rye whiskey is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a robust and flavorful spirit.
4. Willett 6 Year Old Single Barrel: This bourbon is aged for a minimum of six years, allowing it to develop a deeper complexity and richness. Each bottle is sourced from a single barrel, showcasing the unique characteristics of that particular barrel. The 6 Year Old Single Barrel boasts flavors of caramel, honey, and baking spices, with a velvety smooth texture.
5. Willett XCF Exploratory Cask Finish: This bourbon is part of Willett's experimental line, where they explore unique cask finishes to create one-of-a-kind expressions. The XCF is finished in a combination of sherry and rum casks, resulting in a whiskey with layers of flavors. It combines the sweetness of sherry with the richness of rum, creating a truly exceptional and complex bourbon.
Willett Distillery is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. They take pride in their traditional production methods and attention to detail, ensuring that each bottle of bourbon is a true reflection of their expertise.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting several bourbons from Willett, and each one has left a lasting impression. The depth of flavors, the smoothness, and the craftsmanship evident in their products are truly remarkable. Whether you are a bourbon connoisseur or new to the world of whiskey, I highly recommend exploring the offerings from Willett Distillery.