Willett Pot Still Reserve Cask Strength Bourbon

Willett Distillery elected to unleash their beloved mash bill without the restraint of proofing down. Building upon a decidedly soft wheated foundation of 65% corn, 20% wheat, and 15% barley, this semi-annual release amplifies the familiar character of their flagship bottle. The liquid commands attention immediately. Entering the barrel at a traditional 115 proof, the spirit draws profound, concentrated wood sugars from the charred white oak over the course of its maturation. We've found that this specific entry proof preserves the delicate floral elements of the wheat.

Spring and Fall equinoxes dictate the arrival of these distinctive purple-labeled decanters. Pouring this uncut expression reveals a substantial, viscous texture that clings stubbornly to the glass. It holds nothing back whatsoever. Untouched from barrel to bottle, the elevated alcohol content acts as a strong structural backbone, transforming the underlying wheat sweetness into a darker, more brooding profile laced with dense culinary spices and deep orchard fruit. You'll quickly notice how the extra heat enhances rather than overpowers the intricate grain structure.

• Bottled at true cask strength (around 120 proof depending on the batch)
• Wheated mash bill provides a distinctly creamy mouthfeel
• Presented in the iconic Willett glass pot still
• Semi-annual release tied to the Spring and Fall equinoxes

Nose: Fresh spearmint and dark brown sugar leap out of the glass right away, heavily underscored by rich toasted oak and raw vanilla bean.

Palate: This coats the mouth thoroughly with a heavy, viscous weight. Concentrated waves of raw honey and cinnamon bark wash over the palate before abruptly shifting toward dark cherry and butterscotch.

Finish: The warmth hangs around your chest for quite some time, ultimately driven by sweet barrel char, baked apples, and a parting dash of cracked black pepper.

Pairing this robust wheated bourbon requires food that matches its raw intensity. A heavily marbled, dry-aged ribeye makes a tremendous companion. The rendering animal fat cuts through the high proof seamlessly, while the savory charred crust beautifully mirrors those rich barrel sugars. It's genuinely a brilliant combination. Alternatively, a decadent slice of sticky toffee pudding heavily emphasizes the deep caramel and dark fruit notes woven throughout the spirit.