Willett Bourbon stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence in the realm of American whiskey. With a heritage spanning over a century, Willett Bourbon has carved its name into the annals of whiskey lore, embodying the artistry and craftsmanship of Kentucky’s famed distilling heritage.
Kentucky Bourbon Distillers are the owners of the Willett distillery in Bardstown. Willett distillery was built in 1936, just a few years after the repeal of National Prohibition by Lambert Willett, a former distiller for Max Selliger & Co. The distillery was initially a success, principally through its Old Bardstown and Johnny Drum brands, however it was hit hard by the bourbon slump of the 1970s. The result was an ill-advised move into producing ethanol for the production of “gasohol,” spurred by the 1979 energy crises. When that market re-stabilised, Willett was left floundering and eventually closed in the early 1980s. Lambert’s granddaughter, Martha Willett and her husband, Even Kulsveen, then purchased the distillery and established Kentucky Bourbon Distillers in 1984. They originally bottled the remaining barrels of 1970s-distilled stock, however as that gradually diminished, they began sourcing barrels from other producers in order to replenish it, becoming one of the most important independent bottlers in Kentucky. The majority of their barrels were believed to have come from neighbouring Heaven Hill, and with these casks they developed a wealth of important brands, including the Willett Family Estate, Noah’s Mill and Rowan’s Creek. In addition, they contract-bottled brands for other companies, such as the Very Olde St Nick and Black Maple Hill brands. Revered for the quality of their whiskey, their products have become some of the most collectible to come out of Kentucky. One January 21st, 2012, the company re-opened Willett distillery, and have been slowly replenishing its warehouses with its own whiskey ever since.
Willett Bourbon’s journey has been one of evolution and innovation, yet always grounded in the time-honored traditions that define bourbon craftsmanship. From the careful selection of grains to the patient aging process in charred oak barrels, every step of the production process is infused with expertise and attention to detail.
The brand’s commitment to quality has earned it a reputation among enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. Each bottle of Willett Bourbon is a testament to the distillery’s unwavering pursuit of excellence, characterized by a complexity of flavors and a smooth, refined finish that speaks to the mastery of its creators.
Beyond its exceptional taste, Willett Bourbon represents a connection to history, tradition, and the spirit of Kentucky itself. It evokes images of rolling bluegrass hills, white picket fences, and the warm embrace of southern hospitality.
Today, Willett Bourbon continues to uphold its legacy as a benchmark of quality in the world of bourbon. With each sip, drinkers are invited to experience not just a whiskey, but a journey through time, where the past and the present converge in a celebration of craftsmanship and tradition.
