Introduction
Today, we’re diving into the Willett Family Estate Bottled 6-Year Single Barrel Rye, a small-batch rye whiskey from the beloved yet divisive Willett brand. Known for producing distinct high-rye mash bills, this Willett expression clocks in at a hearty 113.4 proof. The mash bill features 74% rye, 11% corn, and 15% malted barley, creating an experience both rye purists and adventurous bourbon fans will appreciate. With its complex profile and Willett’s premium price tag, it’s an intriguing pour worth dissecting.
Nose
Brad: This has a really beautiful nose. I’m getting caramel, cherry, and clove. The rye spice is strong, with a unique cream-of-wheat note that’s quite nice. It’s not overwhelming but leaves a strong impression. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Bob: I think you nailed it. There’s also this earthy freshness—almost like freshly cut grass or herbs. And I’m picking up this interesting note I’ll call “Coca-Cola spice”—a sweet molasses quality with those signature spices, like a cola’s effervescence in whiskey form. I’m at an 8.5/10.
Taste
Brad: This is delicious. I’m getting nutmeg, cinnamon, caramel, and oak, all balancing together so well. There’s even an unexpected olive oil note, which, once I identified it, brought out the flavors even more for me. This is a solid 8.5/10.
Bob: I like it, but it’s throwing me for a loop. There’s a brininess here—maybe closer to dill pickle brine than the olive brine you mentioned. It’s like there’s this classic cherry note from a weeded bourbon, but then this sour dill-like note from the rye. They’re interesting, but I’m not sure they’re totally in sync. Still, it’s impressive, so I’m also at an 8.5/10.
Finish
Brad: The rye spice really shines on the finish. It evolves into this dark, almost molasses-like cherry Coke with a hint of apple juice toward the end. Honestly, this might be my favorite part of the whiskey—it just lingers in all the right ways. 8.5/10.
Bob: I agree, the second and third sips are where this whiskey really starts to bloom. By the third sip, it’s thick and dense, like a rich cheesecake. I’ll also give it an 8.5/10. It’s a long, layered finish that wraps everything up nicely.
Balance
Brad: This whiskey is really well balanced. Every element, from the rye spice to the subtle fruity notes, comes together smoothly. This feels like a 9/10 for me.
Bob: I’m with you here. The flavors flow seamlessly from one to the next. While it’s not the best I’ve ever had in terms of each individual element, it all works together well. A solid 9/10.
Value
Bob: So, here’s where things get real. This bottle goes for anywhere from $350 up to $1,200, depending on where you find it. And while it’s good—no question—it’s a 6-year-old rye. For that money, you could get WhistlePig or Russell’s Reserve 6-Year Rye for a fraction of the price. In terms of value, I can’t give it more than a 5/10.
Brad: I’m right there with you. The quality’s undeniable, but it’s hard to justify the price when so many excellent ryes are out there at much more affordable price points. I’ll go 5.5/10. This is definitely in the “luxury” category, and that price doesn’t totally match the quality here.
Final Scores
Bob: My final score is a 39.5/50. It’s a fantastic whiskey, but for the price, I’d expect something exceptional. It’s not quite a 40 or above, which is where we typically start considering a whiskey a standout recommendation.
Brad: I’m also at a 39.5/50. We’re pretty much on the same page. This is one of those luxury whiskeys that’s excellent but just barely misses our mark for something I’d encourage someone to splurge on.
In summary, this Willett 6-Year Rye is a well-crafted, complex whiskey with strong notes and balanced flavors, but given the luxury price, it’s best reserved for those truly devoted to Willett or collectors looking for something rare. For us, this scores just under our strong recommendation threshold, but it’s definitely a bottle to try if you’re a fan of the Willett brand or get a chance to sample a pour at the bar.
