Willett 8 Year Old Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Introduction

The Willett 8 Year Old Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a notable release from Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. With its eight‑year aging, wheated mash bill (i.e., wheat rather than rye as the secondary grain), non‑chill‑filtered bottling, and premium positioning, this bourbon is aimed at enthusiasts seeking something distinct from mainstream bourbons. In this article we’ll explore the background and production of this whiskey, dive into its tasting profile, examine how best to enjoy it, answer the commonly asked questions (the “People also ask” from Google) with full answers, and conclude with our take on value, who it suits, and how it stands in the market.

Background & Production

Distillery & Brand

Willett Distillery (also appearing under the broader corporate name Kentucky Bourbon Distillers) has a long history in Kentucky, with the Willett family’s involvement in distilling dating back decades. (Caskers) The modern Willett Distillery reopened or re‑emphasised its own branded products in the 2010s, with renewed attention to its distilling, aging, and bottling operations. (Willett Distillery)

In the case of the 8‑year wheated expression, this marks a significant step: a proprietary mash bill (65 % corn / 20 % wheat / 15 % malted barley) for the wheated bourbon line. (Willett Distillery) The age statement of eight years provides more maturation than many younger bourbons and supports a richer flavor profile.

Mash Bill, Aging & Bottling

Some of the production specifications for this whiskey include:

• Mash Bill: ~65% corn, 20% wheat, 15% malted barley. (Willett Distillery)
• Aged: Minimum 8 years in new charred American oak barrels (char #4) as noted by some retailers. (Leon & Son Wine and Spirits)
• Barrel entry proof: approx. 115 proof. (Willett Distillery)
• Bottled proof: 108 proof (54% ABV) for the main release. (Barrel Shoppe)
• Non‑chill filtered: The whiskey is bottled without chill filtration to preserve character. (Sip Whiskey)

These production details suggest a serious bourbon: a higher proof, aged long enough to develop oak and distillate interplay, and a wheated profile (which tends to soften the character and bring sweeter, gentler flavors compared to high‑rye bourbons).

Release & Positioning

The first release of this 8‑year wheated bourbon was distilled in early Spring of 2013 and bottled in Summer 2022. (Caskers) The packaging is described as more premium (e.g., special bottle design with gloss black coating) and the product is allocated/limited in many markets. (Reddit)

In other words: this is not a mass‑market bourbon but rather targeted at enthusiasts/collectors who appreciate age, wheated mash bills, and premium bottlings. As such, price and availability tend to reflect that ambition.

Tasting Profile: What to Expect

Let’s look at the sensory profile: appearance, nose, palate, finish, mouthfeel, and overall impressions.

Appearance

In the glass, expect a rich amber colour with some depth. The eight‑year age and char‑4 barrels suggest a reasonably strong oak influence but not overwhelming. Some description: “… caramel, vanilla bean, cornbread, baking spice with undertones of toasted oak.” (The Barrel Tap)

Nose (Aroma)

According to multiple sources:

• Caramel, vanilla bean, cornbread. (The Barrel Tap)
• Baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg) and toast. (Leon & Son Wine and Spirits)
• Dried fruit and chocolate notes: raisins, raspberries, maybe subtle fudge. (Artisan W&S)

An independent reviewer remarked: “Nose: Brown sugar, crème brûlée, and cinnamon, along with berry reduction sauce, figs, and chocolate… a distinct metallic note of copper and tin… Grain forward…” (Reddit)

So the nose is sweet and inviting, with layers of caramel/vanilla, fruit, chocolate, and some oak/spice background.

Palate (Taste)

From the website descriptions:

• Honey, dried fruits, nutmeg, subtle cocoa, seasoned oak. (Sip Whiskey)
• The palate from one retailer: “Rich honey, dried fruits, and nutmeg meld with wheat‑driven creaminess and subtle cocoa.” (The Barrel Tap)
  From independent list: “Taste: Rich caramel, crème brûlée, honey, cinnamon, berry reduction sauce, figs; mid palate chocolate, toasted oak, lemon zest.” (Reddit)

Thus you can expect a rich sweet core (caramel, honey, creaminess from wheat), fruit undertones (berries, figs, raisins), and oak/spice (nutmeg, cinnamon, toasted oak) rounding things out.

Finish

• One description: “Lingering and warming, with oak spice, vanilla custard, and a touch of chocolate.” (The Barrel Tap)
• Another: “Caramel, crème brûlée and honey shift to the background while berry reduction sauce, chocolate and figs maintain strength; cinnamon, lemon zest and toasted oak increase and close the sip out.” (Reddit)

So the finish is medium‑long, warming (thanks to the 108 proof), sweet and oaky, with some fruit and spice lingering.

Mouthfeel & Strength

At 108 proof (54 % ABV) this is robust but not overwhelmingly overproof. Expect a weighty but balanced mouthfeel, especially given the wheated profile which often softens harsh edges. Reviewers note the “oily mouthfeel” and little “proof heat” despite strong proof. (Reddit)

Because it’s non‑chill filtered and matured for eight years, the texture and depth are above many younger releases.

Overall Impression

This is a well‑crafted bourbon that leans into the sweeter, creamier side thanks to wheat, but still has enough oak, maturation and strength to deliver complexity and depth. It sits in a space where it’s both approachable (for those who like wheated bourbons) and premium (with age and proof). That said, some reviewers question its value/price given market conditions (more on that later).

How to Enjoy It

Given its profile and premium nature, here are some suggestions for serving and enjoying the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon.

• Neat: The best way to appreciate the full aroma and flavour. Use a tulip glass or Glencairn so you get the nose fully. Let it rest a minute after pouring to allow the spirit to open up.
• With a splash of water: If you feel the 108 proof is a bit bold (especially if you’re more accustomed to lower proof bourbons), a drop or two of room‑temperature water may open up some of the sweeter, creamy wheat notes without diluting too much.
• On a large ice cube: For a more relaxed sipping style, a large ice cube will slowly chill and dilute the bourbon, making it smoother and slightly softer in flavours, while still retaining character.
• Pairings: Due to the sweet, fruity, chocolate, oak profile, good food pairings might include dark chocolate (70 % cocoa), pecan or walnut desserts, berries or dried fruit plates, and subtly spiced meats (e.g., smoked ham or lightly spiced barbecue).
• Storage: As with any fine whiskey, store upright, away from direct sunlight, and at stable room temperature. Because it is eight years matured and bottled, additional “ageing” in the bottle won’t dramatically change it — but once opened it’s better enjoyed within a year or two for optimum freshness of flavour.

People Also Ask (FAQ)

Here are many of the common “people also ask” queries related to the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon — with clear answers.

Q1. What is the mash bill of the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon?
A: The mash bill is approximately 65% corn, 20% wheat, and 15% malted barley. (Willett Distillery) The use of wheat instead of rye gives this bourbon a “wheated” profile: softer, sweeter, creamier than high‑rye bourbons.

Q2. How long is it aged?
A: It is aged for 8 years, as indicated by the age statement “8 Year.” According to product descriptions, the first release was distilled in spring 2013 and bottled in summer 2022. (Caskers) Thus the whiskey has had eight years in barrel.

Q3. What proof / ABV is it bottled at?
A: The bottled proof is 108 proof (54% ABV) for the main release. (The Barrel Tap) Some sources mention barrel entry proof of 115 but the final bottled proof is 108. (Willett Distillery)

Q4. What kind of barrel char and barrels were used?
A: The barrels used are new charred American oak, char level #4 according to several product listings. (Leon & Son Wine and Spirits) The higher char level contributes more intense oak, vanilla, caramel and toasted notes.

Q5. Is the whiskey chill‑filtered?
A: No. The Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is bottled without chill filtration, meaning it retains more natural oils, flavour compounds and texture. (Sip Whiskey)

Q6. Where is it made?
A: It is distilled, aged, and bottled by Willett Distillery (Kentucky Bourbon Distillers) in Bardstown, Kentucky, USA. (Caskers)

Q7. How does it taste? What are the flavour / aroma notes?
A: Typical tasting notes include:

• Aroma: caramel, vanilla bean, baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg), cornbread, lightly toasted oak, dried fruits (raisins, raspberries). (The Barrel Tap)
• Palate: honey, dried fruits, nutmeg, cocoa, seasoned oak, lemon or berry accents, creamy wheat texture. (Reddit)
• Finish: lingering oak spice, chocolate/vanilla, fruit reduction, warmed sweetness, medium‑long length. (The Barrel Tap)

Q8. Is it a “wheated bourbon”? What does that mean?
A: Yes — the term “wheated bourbon” refers to a bourbon whose secondary grain (after corn) is wheat instead of rye. This typically results in a softer, sweeter, more mellow flavour profile (less spicy than rye) and a smoother mouthfeel. The Willett 8 Year uses wheat (~20% of mash) and is explicitly described as “wheated.” (Willett Distillery)

Q9. Is this bourbon limited release or widely available?
A: This expression is a premium, limited release by Willett. It is produced in smaller quantities and is allocated in many markets. Availability is restricted compared to standard volume bourbons. For example, the first release was distilled in 2013 and only bottled in 2022. (Caskers)

Q10. What is the approximate price or value?
A: The MSRP for many retailers in the U.S. is around US $230‑$300 (for 750 ml) though actual retail and secondary market prices can be significantly higher depending on region, state taxes, allocation, and demand. For instance, some listings show ~$240–$300. (Caskers) That said, various discussions among enthusiasts debate whether it is “worth” the price paid (see cons section later).

Q11. How does it compare to other wheated bourbons or to Willett’s other offerings?
A: Relative to other wheated bourbons (e.g., W. L. Weller, Maker’s Mark wheated releases, etc.), Willett’s 8 Year offering brings 8‑year age, higher proof (108), non‑chill filtering and a more premium presentation. Some reviewers suggest it is one of the stronger wheated offerings to consider. For instance, a “Food & Wine” article lists it among six wheated whiskeys to check out, noting it as “complex, non‑chill‑filtered… 65% corn/20% wheat/15% barley … 108 proof.” (Food & Wine)

Within Willett’s own portfolio, this represents a step up from younger or lower‑proof releases (such as the standard Pot Still Reserve line) and is positioned as a somewhat higher‑tier collectible.

Q12. What is the best way to drink it?
A: The best way to enjoy this bourbon is neat (in a proper whiskey glass) to appreciate its aroma and flavour layers. If the proof is a little strong for you, a splash of water or a large ice cube will help open it up and soften the impact. Drink slowly, savour the layers, and appreciate the nuance of wheated sweetness plus oak/spice from aging.

Market Context, Value & Comparison

Value Proposition

With an age statement of eight years, wheated mash bill, non‑chill filtration and premium packaging, the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is designed to command a premium price. The question for many consumers/collectors is: does it deliver enough flavour, depth and uniqueness to justify its cost (and the premium over less expensive bourbons)?

Some reviewers and enthusiasts praise it highly — for example:

“Objectively a great whiskey… very well put together. I really enjoy the depth of sweet decadent notes here…” (Reddit)
However, others are skeptical of the retail price/secondary market price:
“That bottle is one of the worst values in all of bourbon… they could cut the price in half and it’d still be priced twice as high as it should.” (Reddit)

Availability/Price Pressure

Because this is a limited, allocated release, availability is constrained. This scarcity drives up market/secondary prices. Some buyers may pay significantly more than the initial MSRP. That raises concerns about “value for money” versus “collectibility/rarity premium.”

Comparison to Alternatives

In the category of wheated bourbons with premium ambition, the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon competes with:

• Other wheated bourbons (e.g., Weller 12 Yr, other wheated premium releases)
• Age‑stated non‑wheated bourbons from other distillers with similar proof/age.
  Its unique value comes from the wheat variant, 8‑year age, higher proof and real Willett distillation (rather than just sourced barrels). This gives it a distinctive position.

That said, for budget‑conscious consumers, there may be other bourbons that offer very strong value albeit with different age/proof/format. If one is purely chasing flavour per dollar, the Willett 8 may be harder to justify unless you particularly love the wheated profile or the brand.

Why This Expression Matters

For collectors and enthusiasts, this release is significant because:

• It is Willett’s own fully‑proprietary wheated mash bill (rather than older wheated sourced barrels).
• It features eight years of maturation — not trivial in modern bourbon world.
• It is bottled at 108 proof and without chill filtration — showing serious production choices.
• It brings the wheated bourbon profile (softer, creamier, less rye spice) with sufficient age to balance distillate and wood.
  Thus, from a production/enthusiast viewpoint, it delivers many of the “premium bourbon” checkboxes.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

• Strong production credentials: eight years of age, wheated mash bill, char #4 barrels, non‑chill filtering, 108 proof.
• Excellent tasting profile: sweet, creamy, nutty, fruit‑driven, with good oak/spice balance.
• Distinctive wheated bourbon character — ideal for those who enjoy bourbon’s softer side.
• Bottled by Willett (not just a sourced bottle), providing prestige and brand confidence.
• Attractive packaging and limited release nature enhance collectible/enthusiast appeal.

❌ Cons

• Premium price / scarcity: the cost (and secondary market price) may exceed what many feel the whiskey is “worth” relative to other offerings.
• Availability is limited — might not be easy to find or purchase at MSRP.
• Wheated bourbons may not appeal to those who prefer high‑rye spice or more aggressive profiles.
• Eight years, while decent, is not extremely long compared to some ultra‑premium bourbon offerings (10+ yrs, 12+ yrs) — some consumers might expect more for the price.
• Some reviewers suggest the value is questionable if compared to alternatives. (see above)

Conclusion: Is It Worth It? Who Should Buy It?

In final summary: the Willett 8 Year Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands out as a compelling offering for bourbon enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate wheated bourbons and are looking for something above the standard age/proof levels. It brings together strong credentials (age, mash bill, filtering, proof) and delivers a richly layered flavour experience.

If you are someone who:

• Enjoys wheated bourbons (softer, creamier, sweeter, less rye‑spice)
• Appreciates bourbons with eight years of maturation and higher proof
• Is comfortable investing in a premium bourbon and doesn’t mind paying for scarcity/brand/collectibility
• Wants a bourbon to sip slowly, savour, and perhaps share with fellow whiskey enthusiasts

… then yes, this bottle is highly recommended for you.

On the other hand, if you:

• Are looking for maximum value per dollar rather than collectible/limited releases
• Prefer high‑rye, spicier bourbon profiles
• Want something more widely available and accessible
  … then you might find that this bottle’s premium price and limited availability make it less ideal for your budget or preferences.

My verdict: If I were to purchase a bottle and knew I could obtain it near MSRP (say US $230‑300) and I value the wheated style, I would say this is well worth the investment. If I were facing a secondary market price of US $400 or more, I would hesitate and compare alternatives before committing. The whiskey itself is very good; the decision comes down to how much extra you value the brand, the limited nature, and the specific profile.

So: Raise your glass to the Willett 8 Year Wheated Bourbon. It’s a delicious, thoughtfully produced whiskey that offers something special — as long as you go in understanding what you’re paying for, and how it aligns with your preferences and budget. Cheers. 🥃