Willett Bourbon Reviews

Willett Distillery, also known as Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (KBD), is a family-owned and operated distillery located in Bardstown, Kentucky. The company was founded in 1936 by Thompson Willett and is currently owned and operated by his descendants. Willett is known for producing a variety of high-quality bourbons and other spirits using traditional methods and ingredients.

Willett Distillery

In the early days of my bourbon drinking, I was fascinated with Willett’s famous whiskey and the way that the guys who knew the most about bourbon around town were always buying and trading these bottles.  With old age statements and high proofs, these bottles still command four digit prices and are highly sought after.

For years now, the only bourbon brand that seemed to universally increase heart rates and open up wallets has been Willett. It didn’t matter if the whiskey was rumored to come from this hallowed distillery or if it actually carried the Willett name on the label, it was always given the benefit of the doubt to be worth whatever the price tag said it was.

Willett’s true fame came from the incredible selection of barrels they sourced from Kentucky distilleries during the glut period of the 90’s and early 2000’s.

Willett Products

In addition to producing its own brands, Willett also produces spirits for other companies under contract, known as “private label” or “proprietary” brands. Some of the brands produced by Willett include Rowan’s Creek, Noah’s Mill, Johnny Drum, and Old Bardstown. Willett Distillery is a popular destination for bourbon enthusiasts, who can visit the distillery and learn about the history and production of bourbon.