Frequently Asked Questions
The Willett Single Barrel Bourbon Aged 9 Years is a rare and luxurious offering from the esteemed Willett Family Estate. This small-batch, Kentucky handmade bourbon is aged to perfection for nine years in hand-selected white oak barrels, resulting in a spirit of unmatched depth and character. Bottled at barrel proof and non-chill filtered, it delivers a robust yet balanced profile, featuring rich waves of dark chocolate, caramel, oak, and candied orange peel complemented by warming cinnamon and white pepper on the finish. Coveted by collectors and whiskey connoisseurs alike, this limited-release bourbon epitomizes craftsmanship and exclusivity, making it a must-have centerpiece for any bourbon enthusiast's collection.
Process & Profile
Crafted by the Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, this single-barrel bourbon embodies the art of small-batch distillation. Each bottle comes from a single, hand-selected barrel, making it an exclusive and unique release. The bourbon is aged for nine years in charred American oak barrels, allowing the spirit to develop exceptional depth and complexity. At cask strength, it retains all its rich flavors, free from chill filtration, showcasing the purest expression of its craft at an impressive 59.1–66.7% ABV depending on the barrel. The mash bill, consisting of 72% corn, 13% rye, and 15% malted barley, reflects a harmonious balance between sweetness and spice. Each bottle, labeled with its specific barrel number, stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Willett family.Tasting Notes
Willett Single Barrel Bourbon Aged 9 Years delights the senses with its intricate flavor profile:- Nose: Aromas of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a touch of baking spice meld with undertones of tropical fruit and citrus, reflecting the rye portion of the mash bill.
- Palate: A symphony of flavors including rich molasses, cinnamon, plum, and graham cracker, accompanied by subtle notes of sandalwood and clove. The creamy mouthfeel enhances the tasting experience, providing both bold and balanced characteristics.
- Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a medium-bodied spice that fades into subtle hints of vanilla and charred wood, promising a satisfying conclusion to every sip.
What Makes It Special
- Exclusivity: As a single-barrel release, each batch is limited in production, often with fewer than 200 bottles per barrel, making every bottle a collector's item.
- Barrel-Proof Purity: Bottled at cask strength without chill filtration, this bourbon offers an authentic, unaltered taste.
- Heritage Craftsmanship: Distilled using traditional methods and premium, locally sourced grains, this bourbon reflects the Willett family's legacy of quality and precision.
- Versatility: Its unique flavor profile and high proof provide flexibility for connoisseurs to enjoy it neat, with water, or in elegant bourbon cocktails.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Let the bourbon shine in its purest form, especially given its complex profile and barrel-proof strength.
- With Water: Add a few drops of water to open up additional layers of aroma and flavor, enhancing the tasting experience.
- On the Rocks: Ice can mellow the proof while retaining the depth of flavor, ideal for leisurely sipping.
- In a Cocktail: Craft a bold Old Fashioned or Manhattan to elevate your cocktail game with this exceptional bourbon as the base.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Willett Single Barrel Bourbon Aged 9 Years unique?
Willett Single Barrel Bourbon Aged 9 Years is a cask-strength bourbon, meaning it is bottled directly from the barrel without dilution, delivering a robust 59.1% ABV. It's hand-selected, non-chill filtered, and aged for nine years in charred oak barrels, which enhances its complex flavor profile with rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle spice .
What is the mash bill for this bourbon?
The typical mash bill includes a mixture of corn, rye, and malted barley, ensuring compliance with bourbon standards. Exact percentages for this barrel may vary, but Willett often uses innovative mash bills to craft unique flavor profiles .
What does Willett Single Barrel Bourbon taste like?
The bourbon features a bold palate with flavors of caramel, vanilla, ripe fruits, and spices such as clove and black pepper. Additional tasting notes may include hints of citrus, plum, and roasted oak, providing a complex and satisfying experience .
How should I enjoy Willett Single Barrel Bourbon?
This bourbon is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up its full flavor profile. It can also be served on the rocks for a smoother experience or used as a high-end ingredient in classic whiskey cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan .
What is the significance of the "purple top" on the bottle?
The "purple top" is a distinguishing feature of Willett Family Estate Single Barrel bourbons. It symbolizes exclusivity and the limited nature of these releases, which are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts .
How many bottles are typically produced per barrel?
As a single-barrel bourbon, production is limited to the yield of that specific barrel. For the 9-year-aged variant, barrels often produce around 150-200 bottles, emphasizing their rarity and collectible appeal .
Is Willett Single Barrel Bourbon Aged 9 Years part of a larger collection?
Yes, it belongs to the Willett Family Estate Collection, which includes a variety of hand-selected bourbons and ryes. Each expression in the collection is unique, with variations in age, proof, and flavor profile depending on the individual barrel .
What makes Willett's distillation process special?
Willett employs a combination of pot and column stills, allowing precise control over flavor development. They use a proprietary yeast strain and meticulously oversee each step, from grain selection to barrel aging, ensuring the highest quality product .
Why is Willett bourbon so expensive?
The price reflects its rarity, craftsmanship, and premium quality. Being a single-barrel, cask-strength bourbon aged for nine years, it involves significant time and resources to produce. Limited production quantities and high demand further contribute to its value .
Can I visit Willett Distillery?
Yes, the Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, is open to visitors. Known for its picturesque setting, you can learn about its history, tour the facilities, and taste various Willett whiskeys while exploring their heritage of bourbon-making .
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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