Willett 8 Year Old Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Kentucky, USA

Willett’s 8-Year-Old Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey captivates with a unique blend of corn, wheat, and malted barley, barrel-aged to perfection in Char #4 American oak. Bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV), this small-batch bourbon offers a rich Kentucky experience with layers of nuanced flavors. The spirit, housed in its signature black bottle with a purple foil, has sparked considerable interest since its release in 2022, appealing to enthusiasts of fine, wheated bourbons.

Expert’s Notes:

Bryant Bowlby, Wine Dispensary Beverage Expert, underscores the rarity of this release: “Willett isn’t known for age-statement products, so seeing them put out an 8-year wheated bourbon is something truly special.” He notes the significance of the wheated mash bill, “a style that’s getting harder to find from Willett since they changed the pot still reserve recipe.” For collectors and fans of the distillery, he adds, “This is a unique moment in their story, and a bottle not to miss.”

Product Details:

• Type: Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• ABV: 54% (108 Proof)
• Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 20% Wheat, 15% Barley
• Barrel Entry Proof: 115
• Age: 8 Years
• Barrel: Char #4 American Oak

Sensory Description:

The nose unveils layers of warm corn fritters, with undertones of raisin, raspberry skins, and dry oak. Swirling the glass releases notes of caramel nut brittle, black pepper, and hints of leather, mingling with subtleties of cinnamon and nutmeg for an enticing aromatic profile. On the palate, this bourbon opens with classic cherry and raisin notes, followed by touches of funfetti frosting, plum, and vanilla wafers. As the sip unfolds, flavors of milk chocolate, creamy caramel, and thick raspberry compote appear, leaving a satisfying, subtly sweet finish.

Distiller’s Background:

Willett Distillery, an iconic Kentucky producer, is celebrated for crafting distinct, high-quality bourbons. Known for its commitment to traditional techniques and small-batch production, Willett combines local heritage with innovation, appealing to collectors and bourbon enthusiasts worldwide. The rare 8-Year Wheated Bourbon reflects Willett's dedication to quality and their mastery in aging premium spirits.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy this bourbon neat at room temperature to appreciate its complexity, or add a few drops of water to open up deeper aromas. Pair it with dark chocolate, cherry desserts, or spiced nuts to enhance its warm, fruity notes. Best sipped slowly, this bourbon offers a rich, layered experience for any bourbon lover.

Willett’s 8-Year Wheated Bourbon is a study in elegance and rarity, offering a bold, luxurious pour from a distillery that rarely shows its age, but always shows its skill.