Willett 8 Year Old Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Introduction

In the world of American bourbon, the “wheated” style has grown from a niche alternative to one of the most sought-after categories. Replacing rye with wheat in the mash bill offers a softer, sweeter profile often celebrated by enthusiasts. The Willett 8 Year Old Wheated Bourbon is a recent release from Willett Distillery that checks many boxes: an age-statement, wheated mash bill, a relatively high proof, non-chill filtration—and heavy reputation. But as with any high-profile bourbon release, the question is: does it deliver? This article covers everything: the brand and production story, the specs, tasting profile, serving tips, price/availability, the most common “People also ask” questions (with answers), market context, pros & cons, and a conclusion on whether this bottle is worth your shelf space (or wallet).

Brand & Production Background

The Willett Distillery (and Willett Brand)

Willett has a long history in Kentucky. The Willett family began distilling in the late 1800s; more recently the modern Willett Distillery (also operating under Kentucky Bourbon Distillers) is located in Bardstown, Kentucky. (Caskers) The brand is known for “purple-top” small batch/bottled-in-bond releases and for being somewhat variable from batch to batch, making collectors keenly attentive.

While many Willett releases are non-age-stated (NAS), the 8 Year Wheated is significant because:

• It carries an age statement (8 years), relatively rare for Willett. (Bourbon Culture)
• It uses a wheated mash bill (wheat replacing rye) – a style beloved for its smoothness and sweetness. (Skurnik Wines & Spirits)
• It is bottled at a relatively high proof (108 proof, 54 % ABV) and is non-chill filtered. (Bourbon Culture)

These features position it as a premium, collectible bourbon, aimed at both enthusiasts and the secondary market.

Mash Bill, Aging & Proof

Here are the key production specs (as best as publicly available):

• Mash Bill: Approximately 65% corn / 20% wheat / 15% malted barley. (Bourbon Culture)
• Value of wheat: The substitution of wheat for rye typically yields a softer, less peppery flavour profile. As one guide put it: “The 20 % wheat mash bill gives this whiskey a comfortable complexity that is the equivalent of taking your bed on vacation.” (Food & Wine)
• Barrel entry proof: 115 proof (for the initial drop into barrels) according to official spec sheets. (Willett Distillery)
• Aging: 8 years in new char #4 American oak barrels. (The Whiskey Jar)
• Bottling proof: 108 proof (54% ABV). (InternetWines.com)
• Other notes: Produced by Willett, non-chill filtered. (CaskCartel.com)

Release, Packaging & Availability

• The first release of this 8 Year Wheated Bourbon was distilled in early Spring 2013 and bottled in Summer 2022. (Bourbon Culture)
• It appears in a sleek black/“purple-top” style bottle (consistent with Willett’s premium releases).
• Retail pricing at launch was reportedly around US $250 for 750 ml. (malt-review.com)
• Availability is limited; like many Willett releases this one is highly sought and often commands a premium on the secondary market. (The Whiskey Jar)

So, from a production point of view this is a serious bourbon: age statement, wheated mash bill, higher proof, limited release. Let’s look at how it tastes.

Tasting Profile: What to Expect

Below is a breakdown of how the Willett 8 Year Wheated presents across appearance, nose, palate, finish, mouthfeel—and how that translates to enjoyment.

Appearance

As described by reviewers: “Amber, about what you would expect in an eight-year old bourbon. Nice thick film and legs.” (The Whiskey Jar) The char #4 barrels impart noticeable oak and colour; while the wheated style may soften some extremes, this still has depth of colour indicative of good maturation.

Aroma (Nose)

Independent tasting notes and retailer descriptions include:

• Brown sugar, crème brûlée, cinnamon, dark fruit jam (fig, cherry). (The Whiskey Jar)
• Vanilla bean, cornbread, baking spice (nutmeg, cinnamon), toasted oak. (The Barrel Tap)
• Raisin, red grapes, subtle sawdust/wood. (Artisan W&S)

In short, the nose is rich, dessert-like, sweet with fruit and spice, and layered rather than aggressively raw.

Palate (Taste)

Key flavour impressions:

• “Creamy mouth-feel… heavy cream texture… honey, cinnamon, apple, brown butter.” (FoodSided)
• “Caramel, toffee, baked apples, breadiness softened by the wheat-forward mashbill.” (Hi Proof)
• “Vanilla, fudge, burnt caramel, peppermint, leather, honey, oranges, black tea, cinnamon, peppermint.” (CaskCartel.com)

The palate delivers a rich sweetness (vanilla, caramel, honey) combined with fruit notes and soft spice. The wheated mash bill seems to soften what could otherwise be harsher bourbon characteristics.

Finish

On the finish:

• Lingering spice and oak, notes of nutmeg, cherry, sugar cookie. (FoodSided)
• Medium to long finish, warming, with caramel and toast playing out. (Sip Whiskey)

The finish is satisfying, though some reviewers say it doesn’t push into ultra-long “aged bourbon” territory—but for an 8-year release it is quite respectable.

Mouthfeel & Strength

At 108 proof, this bourbon provides good weight and warming character but remains drinkable. Many reviewers note a smooth, creamy texture—likely aided by the wheat element and non-chill filtration. For example:

“This is an exceptionally creamy bourbon… partly attributed to the non-chill filtering as well as the percentage of malted barley in the mash bill.” (FoodSided)

So while it has proof and punch, the mouthfeel is more refined than “big muscular bourbon”—more velvet than steel.

Overall Impressions

Putting it all together: Willett 8 Year Wheated is a premium release that plays to the strengths of the wheated style: smoothness, sweet complexity, and a more “approachable” profile—while still offering depth, age, and proof. It may not deliver the ultra-old, ultra-complex character of a 12-15-year or 20-year bourbon, but in its category it stands out.

How to Serve & Enjoy

Here are recommendations for enjoying the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon:

• Neat: Use a tulip or Glencairn glass to appreciate the aroma, swirl gently, rest for a minute, then sip. The complex nose deserves attention.
• With a drop of water: Because of the 108 proof, adding one or two drops of room-temperature water may help open up flavour and reduce heat, especially for less experienced bourbon drinkers.
• On the rocks: A single large ice cube is acceptable if you prefer chilled sipping, but note that dilution may reduce subtleties like fruit and bakery notes.
• Pairing: The sweet, dessert-like profile suggests pairings like dark chocolate, pecan pie, caramel desserts, vanilla-scented crème. Also cheeses like aged gouda or mild cheddar complement the wheat sweetness.
• Occasion: This is a bottle you might reserve for special occasions (given its cost and collectibility) rather than everyday mixing.
• Storage: Once opened, keep upright, sealed, away from heat/light. Given it is fairly rare and premium, preserve it for sipping rather than mixing heavily.

“People Also Ask” – FAQ Section

Below are common questions you’ll encounter online about this bourbon—and straightforward answers to each.

Q1: What is the mash bill of Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon?
A1: The published mash bill is approximately 65% corn, 20% wheat, 15% malted barley. (Bourbon Culture) The wheat replaces the more common rye in bourbons, giving it a softer profile.

Q2: What is the age statement?
A2: It bears an age statement of 8 years. It was distilled in early 2013 and bottled in summer 2022. (Bourbon Culture) Despite this timeline suggesting ~9 years, the label states “8 Year.”

Q3: What proof/ABV is it bottled at?
A3: This bourbon is bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV). (InternetWines.com) The barrel entry proof was 115 proof. (Willett Distillery)

Q4: Is it chill filtered?
A4: No—it is bottled without chill filtration. (CaskCartel.com) Non-chill filtration helps retain oils and flavour compounds that might otherwise be stripped out.

Q5: What does it taste like?
A5: The tasting profile includes:

• Nose: caramel, vanilla bean, cinnamon, dark fruit (fig, cherry), baking spice, toasted oak. (The Whiskey Jar)
• Palate: sweet honey, toffee, baked apples, cinnamon, white grapes, raisins, milk chocolate. (InternetWines.com)
• Finish: warming oak spice, nutmeg, cherry, sugar cookie, lingering vanilla and sweet oak. (FoodSided)

Q6: How much does it cost / is it good value?
A6: At launch, the MSRP was around US $250 for the U.S. market. (malt-review.com) Secondary market and current retail listings vary widely (some quoting $300+). Value depends on availability, your preference for wheated bourbon, and the price you pay. Some reviewers feel the price is steep compared to alternatives. (Reddit)

Q7: How does it compare to other wheated bourbons (e.g., Pappy Van Winkle, Weller)?
A7: The wheated style is shared by the Van Winkle/Old Rip research line (Buffalo Trace) and Weller (Buffalo Trace). The Willett 8 Year Wheated is younger (8 years vs sometimes 12+ for Van Winkle), higher proof than some Weller releases, and produced in smaller quantities (hence scarcity). Reviewer commentary:

“The 8-year, non-chill filtered, wheated bourbon… if ever there was a bourbon that was made to drink in the autumn of the year, this may be it.” (FoodSided)

Q8: Where is this bourbon distilled and bottled?
A8: It is distilled, aged and bottled by Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky (DSP-KY number). It is labelled as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey produced in Kentucky. (CaskCartel.com)

Q9: What makes a wheated bourbon different from a rye bourbon?
A9: In bourbon mash bills, the key requirement is at least 51% corn. The secondary grain is often rye or wheat. Rye gives sharper spice, pepper, and bold bite. Wheat produces a softer, sweeter and smoother profile—often described as rounder, creamier and dessert-like. The Willett 8 Year Wheated uses wheat (~20%) instead of rye, thus aligning with the “wheated” style. (Food & Wine)

Q10: Is this a good bourbon to collect or to drink?
A10: Yes to both, depending on your intent. For collectors: the age statement, limited release and brand prestige make it desirable. For drinkers: the flavour profile is well regarded, particularly for wheated-bourbon fans. But if you only want value and wide availability, you might consider other bourbons. Secondary market prices and scarcity may raise the “cost” of ownership.

Market Context & Comparison

Why is this release important?

• Willett historically released many NAS bourbons; an 8 year age statement marks a milestone. (The Whiskey Jar)
• Wheated bourbons have surged in popularity; this release positions Willett in that category with credibility. The Food & Wine guide listed it among six wheated whiskeys to check out. (Food & Wine)
• The combination of age, proof, wheated recipe and brand prestige creates high interest—and hence high demand.

Pricing and scarcity

• Because of allocation and hype (and perceived value), many bottles command a premium on the secondary market. For example, one reviewer commented:

“This was on the secondary all the same… one of the reasons this bottle grabbed headlines.” (Reddit)

• While MSRP (~$250) is high for an 8-year bourbon, if you believe in the rarity and quality, many buyers accept this premium.

How it stacks up against alternatives

• Compared to an 8-year wheated from other producers (lesser known brands), Willett offers brand/age/proof upside.
• Compared to longer-aged wheated bourbons (12+ years, Pappy or similar), you might get less depth, but often a more attainable price (assuming availability).
• The wheated style prominently features on labels from Van Winkle (Buffalo Trace) and Weller; Willett’s release adds diversification into the wheated market.

Relative Value

• For someone seeking wheated bourbon and willing to pay a premium for age/proof/brand, this is strong.
• For someone seeking maximum flavour per dollar, maybe there are more cost-effective options (especially for mixing or casual sipping).
• For collectors, the age statement and limited nature increase potential long-term value (though secondary markets are volatile and dependent on brand/trend).
• For everyday drinking or mixing, a more accessible wheated bourbon may suffice; this bottle may be better reserved for special occasions.

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

• Age statement of 8 years (rare for many Willett releases).
• Wheated mash bill (65/20/15) offering smoother, sweeter profile.
• Higher proof (108) and non-chill filtered — appealing for enthusiasts.
• Well-regarded by reviewers: rich dessert-like profile, smooth mouthfeel, solid complexity.
• From a notable and historic Kentucky distillery (Willett).
• Good collector appeal with premium packaging and limited availability.

👎 Cons

• Retail MSRP (~$250) is high for an 8-year bourbon, leading some to question value. (Reddit)
• Availability limited—difficult for many consumers to secure at MSRP; secondary market pricing may be much higher.
• Wheated profile may not appeal to drinkers who prefer bold rye spice or ultra-old wood-driven flavour.
• 8 years is respectable, but many bourbons (especially high-end) now carry 12–15+ years; thus may lack the depth of older expressions.
• Because it is collectible, there may be temptation to hold unopened rather than enjoy—some may never open or experience it.

Conclusion: Should You Buy It?

In summary: The Willett 8 Year Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a standout release for the wheated bourbon category. It brings together age, proof, mash bill and brand prestige in a way that’s rare in the current market. If you enjoy wheated bourbons, value smooth complexity, and are willing to spend, this bottle is highly recommended.

For whom is it ideal?

• Wheated bourbon fans who prefer less pepper/spice and more dessert-like sweetness.
• Collectors looking for a well-reviewed right-of-passage bottle or a premium in their bourbon wardrobe.
• Sippers who intend to take their time with the bottle—neat, slowly, in proper glassware.

For whom might it not be ideal?

• Drinkers who prefer bold, high-rye bourbons or ultra-old bourbons with intense oak/spice.
• Those on a moderate budget seeking mixing bourbon or everyday bourbon. In that case, you might find better value elsewhere.
• Anyone expecting ultra-long age statement or deep wood-driven flavours; this release is about refined sweetness more than brute age.

My verdict: If I were purchasing this bottle and could find it near its intended retail (~$250) or even modestly above (~$300), I would buy it, savor it, and enjoy it neat over time. If I were seeing the price significantly higher (e.g., $400+) I would pause and compare with other wheated bourbons, because the incremental value may not justify the cost in that case.

Ultimately, whether you should buy it depends on what you value: flavour, collectibility, brand, style, budget. If all those align, then yes: this is a high-quality, enjoyable, and worthwhile bourbon. If you are chasing maximum value for minimum cost or prefer other styles, you might wait or explore alternatives.

Raise a glass to wheated bourbons—and if you pick this up, may it reward your patience and palate. 🥃