Frequently Asked Questions
Willett Family Estate Small Batch Straight Rye Bourbon is a meticulously crafted 4-year-old Kentucky rye whiskey that harmonizes bold character with refined elegance. Distilled with a high-rye mash bill and aged in white oak barrels, this cask-strength expression delivers a robust 114.4 proof. It enchants the senses with rich notes of baking spices, dark cherry, burnt vanilla, and hints of toasted oak, while its creamy, viscous mouthfeel enhances the tasting experience. The long, spiced finish is impeccably balanced, making it a standout choice for rye lovers and collectors alike. Perfect for sipping neat or enhancing classic cocktails, this bottle exemplifies the artistry of Willett Distillery.
Process & Profile
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye Bourbon is crafted with meticulous attention to detail at the Willett Distillery, established in 1936 in Bardstown, Kentucky. The distillation process involves a blend of high-quality ingredients, with a high-rye mash bill (74% rye, 11% corn, 15% malted barley) offering a bold rye-forward character. Aged in hand-selected charred oak barrels for four years, each batch embraces the rich flavors imparted by the aging process. Bottled at cask strength (114.4 proof), this whiskey is un-chillfiltered to preserve its robust profile and complexity, ensuring a premium experience with every sip.Tasting Notes
Willett Rye delights the senses with complex layers of aroma and flavor:- Nose: Opens with brandied and tart cherries, vanilla wafers, and sweet red fruits complemented by baking spices like cinnamon and cloves, with subtle hints of charred oak.
- Palate: A velvety, oily mouthfeel delivers bursts of dark cherry, burnt vanilla, and honey, balanced with toasted oak, stone fruits, and baking spices. The rye's bold spices harmonize with flavors reminiscent of toffee and sweet red fruits.
- Finish: Long and satisfying, with notes of spiced honey, breakfast tea, and a subtle peppery warmth that lingers, leaving a refined impression.
What Makes It Special
- Small Batch Craftsmanship: Each batch is carefully crafted in limited quantities, making this whiskey both a collector's item and a testament to Willett's dedication to quality.
- High-Rye Complexity: The high-rye mash bill produces the quintessential spice and boldness rye enthusiasts crave.
- Cask Strength Bottling: Bottled at 114.4 proof, this whiskey delivers an unfiltered, full-bodied experience, with the alcohol perfectly integrated into the flavor profile.
- Rich Tradition: Willett's family history and expertise in whiskey-making since 1936 ensure each bottle reflects generational passion and precision.
How to Enjoy
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye Bourbon is versatile and perfect for any occasion:- Neat or On the Rocks: Its robust profile shines when sipped neat, though it also mellows beautifully over a large ice cube.
- Cocktails: Elevate classic cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned with its bold rye spice and sweet undertones.
- For Celebrations: Its distinct flavor and limited availability make it ideal for special occasions or gifting to whiskey connoisseurs.
Conclusion
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye Bourbon is a masterful expression of traditional rye whiskey-making, combining bold flavors with exquisite craftsmanship. A must-try for lovers of rye and small-batch spirits, this whiskey offers a truly memorable tasting experience that stands apart in a crowded market. Add this gem to your collection or savor it as a treat to yourself—either way, it's an experience worth cherishing.Frequently Asked Questions
What is Willett Small Batch Straight Rye?
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye is a premium rye whiskey crafted by the Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. It is made with a blend of high rye (74% rye) and low rye (51% rye) mashbills and aged for four years in charred oak barrels. It is bottled at cask strength with an impressive proof, varying slightly across batches.
What are the flavor notes of Willett Small Batch Straight Rye?
This whiskey is celebrated for its bold and complex flavor profile. On the palate, you'll find notes of dark cherry, burnt vanilla, cinnamon, and baking spices, complemented by a weighty mouthfeel. The finish is long, with spice dominating but balanced by layers of cherry and oak.
What makes Willett Small Batch Straight Rye unique?
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye combines meticulous craftsmanship with distinct Kentucky heritage. Its flavor profile stands out due to the blending of two rye mashbills, as well as its small-batch production method, which ensures uniqueness in every bottle. The combination of high-proof bottling and well-balanced integration of flavors makes it a standout rye whiskey in the market.
Is this whiskey suitable for both sipping and mixing?
Yes, Willett Small Batch Straight Rye excels as a sipping whiskey due to its rich complexity and balance. However, its robust spice and rye character also make it an excellent choice for cocktails such as the Manhattan or Old Fashioned, where it can contribute bold and unique flavors.
What proof is Willett Small Batch Straight Rye bottled at?
Willett Small Batch Straight Rye is typically bottled at cask strength, with a proof that often ranges between 109 and 113, depending on the batch. This higher proof adds intensity and depth to both its flavor and finish.
How is Willett Small Batch Straight Rye aged?
The whiskey is aged for four years in new, hand-selected charred oak barrels, which impart the rich flavors of spice, oak, and caramel while balancing the natural rye spice. The aging process takes place in Kentucky, taking advantage of the region's climate to influence the whiskey's maturation.
Does Willett Distillery produce its own whiskey?
Yes, since 2012, Willett has been distilling its own whiskey after a significant renovation of its historic distillery. While earlier products were often sourced, the current Small Batch Straight Rye is believed to be either fully or predominantly distilled on-site.
What food or cigar pairs well with Willett Small Batch Straight Rye?
This whiskey pairs exceptionally well with rich foods and desserts that complement its spice and caramel notes, such as pecan pie or chocolate. For cigar enthusiasts, it pairs beautifully with cigars that emphasize coffee, vanilla, and cedar flavors, enhancing its complexity.
What is the price point of Willett Small Batch Straight Rye?
The suggested retail price for a bottle of Willett Small Batch Straight Rye is approximately $50–$60, though prices may vary depending on the retailer and region. Its price reflects the quality and artisanal care invested in its production.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
You may also like
Recently viewed
