Like many reviewers or enthusiasts of bourbon, when someone says, “Have you ever tried a purple-top?” we quickly gasp. For those who are unfamiliar, a “purple-top” typically refers to a bottle of Willett Bourbon with a purple foil that easily costs $400 plus for a bottle. So with that knowledge, and knowing that I have never tired nor owned a “purple-top,” I was ecstatic to see this bottle for less than $100; unfortunately, not every story has a good ending to it. Today’s bottle comes from the Willett Distillery and is their new bottle of Willett Family Estate Small Batch 4 Year Bourbon.

Bottle Information

From the Willett website: The Willett Family Estate Small Batch Bourbon is a commingling of two classic Willett family mash bills. A new addition to the Willett family of brands with legendary roots and fresh elegance. Both mash bills enter the barrel at 125 proof with a final bottling proof to vary among batches based on the discretion of Master Distiller and fifth generation whiskey maker, Drew Kulsveen.

• Distiller: Distilled, Aged, and Bottled by Willett Distillery
• Mash Bill: 30%: 72% Corn/13% Rye/15% Barley and 70%: 52% Corn/38% Rye/10% Barley
• Proof: 125
• Age: 4 Years
• Year: 2025
• 2025 MSRP: $99
• 2026 National Average: $150
• Official Website

This Willett Family Estate Small Batch 4 Year Bourbon is on shelves everywhere through NoCo, and for good reason. Overall, I went into this bottle with high hopes, having always loved Willett’s Rye Whiskey and dreamed of trying their bourbon. Unfortunately, I was quite let down by the overpowering youth notes that detracted from the cinnamon and vanilla that could have made this a wonderful pour. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Corn Grain, Vanilla, and Cinnamon
• Palate: Cinnamon Red Hots, Vanilla, Brown Sugar, and Youthfulness (Corn Grain)
• Finish: Short to Medium with Notes of Cinnamon and Grain
• My Rating: Donate It! (This is way too youthful and unfortunately not worthy of the purple foil…)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman®