Product Information:
The ultra-exclusive Willett ‘Purple Tops’ have arrived with this extraordinary 11-Year-Old Willett Family Estate Bourbon, Barrel No. #3052, bottled at a bold 67.5% ABV. On the nose, it reveals floral and fruity notes with a hint of baked apple and toffee, balanced by subtle cinnamon. The palate follows with a velvety mix of cinnamon, poached fruits, and baking spices that linger, offering a refined yet intense experience. Despite its strength, the whiskey remains exceptionally smooth—perfect for savouring or as a highly collectible addition.
Crafted solely for Willett’s Private Barrel Selection program, Willett Family Estate Bourbon is an un-chill filtered, cask strength bourbon that stands apart for its depth and complexity. This rare release reflects Willett's dedication to quality, produced with a mash bill of 72% corn, 13% rye, and 15% malted barley.
Maker:
In 1936, Thompson Willett founded Willett Distillery, a name that has become synonymous with exceptional Kentucky whiskey. Built near the family farm purchased by his father, Lambert Willett, the distillery produced its first batch of Kentucky bourbon in 1937 on St. Patrick’s Day, marking the beginning of a storied legacy. This inaugural production yielded 30 barrels of whiskey, which were stored in hillside rickhouses, designed to harness Kentucky’s cool breeze to aid in ageing. Today, the Willett family, now in its fourth generation, continues Thompson’s vision of making small-batch Kentucky bourbon and rye at the same historic site.
The Philosophy:
The Willett family’s journey in whiskey-making spans generations, each driven by a respect for quality and tradition. Thompson Willett’s meticulous approach, inspired by his father and grandfather, emphasised the use of premium ingredients, precision in every detail, and the patience to let each batch develop its character over time. This timeless commitment has made Willett Distillery one of Kentucky’s most revered bourbon producers, delivering a legacy of authenticity and craftsmanship in every bottle.
Nose
Floral, Fruity, Toffee
Remarkably mellow given the high ABV, with aromas of floral notes, baked apple, toffee, and a gentle hint of cinnamon.
Palate
Cinnamon, Poached Fruits, Baking Spices
A rich blend of Calvados-like fruity notes and cinnamon with layers of baking spices, creating a deep, complex flavour profile.
Finish
Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, Sweet Brown Spices
Smooth yet intense, closing with notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, and brown spices. Dangerously easy to drink.
Bottle Information
Barrel Number - #3052
The Finer Details
Style - Bourbon
Country - USA
Region - Kentucky
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 67.5%