Willett Family Estate Small Batch

Kentucky Straight Bourbon • 126.4 proof • NAS (about 4 years) • $65 MSRP

Score: 89/100 (Gold Medal on the Toni B scale).

Kentucky straight bourbon from Willett Distillery, the Family Estate small batch often called the baby purple top. Bottled at 126.4 proof (63.2% ABV). Age is not stated; the release is a blend of Willett mash bills. MSRP cited in the review: about $65.

Nose: dark cherry, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of corn, with obvious high-proof heat.

Palate: thick and oily. Cinnamon and caramel lead, with darker fruit as it lingers. Heat is present but easy for a high-proof drinker.

Finish: warm Kentucky hug, scored 18/20. Presentation 12/15, aroma 13/15, taste 23/25, value 22/25.

Verdict: a must-buy only at the right price. Secondary or inflated shelf tags change the value case.

YouTube review: Willett Family Estate Small Batch