
Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, has announced the release of its newest expression, the Willett Family Estate Small Batch Bourbon, a handcrafted whiskey that reflects the distillery’s dedication to quality and innovation by fifth-generation Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen.
A Marriage of Two Distinct Mash Bills
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The small batch release is a marriage of two distinct mash bills, thoughtfully selected and blended to create a bourbon of remarkable depth and character:
70% of Mash Bill No. 1: 72% Corn, 13% Rye, 15% Barley
30% of Mash Bill No. 2: 52% Corn, 38% Rye, 10% Barley
Each batch is composed of around 50 barrels, highlighting the art of commingling bourbons of different ages. Distilled at a barrel entry proof of 125, the whiskey is bottled at cask strength which will vary by batch, ensuring a unique flavor profile with each release.
Crafted under the guidance of Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen, this release continues the vision of his late father, Even G. Kulsveen, whose leadership and dedication helped shape Willett Distillery into a respected name in the bourbon industry. The new release builds on the popularity of Willett Family Estate Single Barrel which are coveted for their quality and variety. Likewise, the more accessible Willett Family Estate Small Batch Rye Whiskey shares the Single Barrel’s quality and popularity.
“Willett Family Estate Small Batch Bourbon represents the next step in our family’s journey,” said Drew Kulsveen, Master Distiller at Willett. ““From our family’s Thanksgiving table to yours, our values of gratitude, grit, and hospitality are intentionally poured into every barrel and every single bottle we put on the table. It’s important to celebrate those we hold most dear over a shared pour, while remembering our most favorite stories about those who aren’t at the table.”
The Willett Family Estate Small Batch Bourbon will be released in limited quantities nationwide.
Established in 1936, three short years after prohibition, the Willett family chose the original family hog farm, situated at one of the highest point in Nelson County, Kentucky, to begin construction on the Willett Distillery. By St Patrick’s Day 1937, the first barrel of whiskey was rolled into Warehouse A. Approaching 90 years, Willett continues to make fine Kentucky Bourbon and Kentucky Rye Whiskeys. And remains independent and, truly, family-owned and -operated, honoring Even and Martha Kulsveen’s memories. Descendants of the Willett family can be found every day working throughout the picturesque 130-acre property.
Related Stories
– Willett Distillery Investing $93 Million at 2nd Location to Expand Production Capacity & Barrel Storage Dec 2022
– Watch as a Willett Distillery 10-Year-Old Single Barrel Sells for $225,000 at Bourbon Crusaders’ Fund Raiser in 130 Seconds Nov 2022
– The Prestigious Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Welcomes Six New Inductees to the Class of 2019 Sep 2019
Learn more about Willett Distillery.
View all Bardstown / Nelson County Distilleries.
View all Kentucky Distilleries.
View all U.S. Distilleries.
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