Introduction
Today, we’re diving into Johnny Drum Private Stock, a bourbon produced by the Willett Distillery. This bourbon holds a unique spot in the Johnny Drum lineup, which includes three different versions—green label, black label, and the Private Stock. While the green and black labels are budget offerings, the Private Stock is where the hype truly lies.
Coming in at 101 proof, it’s non-age stated, and while it was once a 15-year bourbon, that’s no longer the case due to blending with other sources. Willett is known for being secretive about the exact origin of their sourced whiskey, and Johnny Drum Private Stock is no exception. We’ve been holding onto this bottle for a while, and now it’s time to see if it lives up to the hype.
This review comes from our episode "Collateral / Johnny Drum Private Stock." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Bob: Willett is known for its signature “Willett funk,” which, over time, I’ve realized isn’t really funky at all—it’s a deep floral note, particularly rose petals. On the nose, that rose is present along with some rye spice. After a few nosings, it reveals more classic bourbon scents like caramel and vanilla, but the floral note never disappears. For me, this is the perfect example of a Willett nose. I’m giving it a 9.5/10.
Brad: On my end, I’m picking up green apple, leather, and vanilla as the strongest notes. The nose is solid, but not as intense for me, so I’m at a 7.5/10.
Taste
Brad: The apple from the nose carries over into the palate with an overwhelming amount of caramel. It’s not a bad thing, but the complexity takes a slight dip with that strong caramel note. Some oak and tobacco emerge as it sits longer on the palate. I’d give it a 7/10.
Bob: This is where the leather note kicks in for me, transitioning from that floral rose into a leathery flavor. It’s sweet with a nice caramel undercurrent. At 101 proof, this bourbon has a perfect punch without being harsh, and it has a really thick, viscous mouthfeel. However, towards the end, it does take a quick turn into bitterness before the rose comes back to smooth it out. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Finish
Brad: The finish stays nice and oaky, with the vanilla continuing through. The tobacco I picked up on the palate evolves into a baking spice note that adds a nice, unexpected kick. I’ll give it a 7.5/10.
Bob: For me, the finish carries the leather bitterness from the palate, but the rose and charred wood help balance things out. There’s a deep, burnt wood char flavor alongside a light vanilla sweetness. It’s a complex, smoky, floral, and sweet finish. I’ll go with an 8.5/10.
Balance
Brad: Overall, this whiskey delivers a solid, balanced experience from start to finish. You get a good expression of flavor throughout without too many peaks or valleys. I’d give it an 8/10.
Bob: I wanted to give it a 9, but the slight dip in the palate holds it back. However, it’s still an incredibly well-balanced whiskey that aligns perfectly with my flavor preferences. I’m at an 8.5/10.
Value
Bob: I picked this bottle up in Kentucky for $35 back in 2021. Today, it’s retailing between $40 to $45, depending on where you find it. At that price point, this is a fantastic value. The only thing that rivals it in terms of value at a similar proof is Wild Turkey Rare Breed, but for a bourbon at 101 proof, Johnny Drum Private Stock stands out. I’m giving it a 9/10 for value.
Brad: I’ll land at a 7/10. For around $40, this is a solid value in the whiskey world. If it creeps up in price, it might start to lose some of that value, but for now, it’s worth grabbing.
Final Scores
Bob: I’m coming out to a 43.5/50 for Johnny Drum Private Stock. I love this whiskey—its complexity, floral notes, and the leather finish are right in my wheelhouse. For me, this is a top-tier bourbon.
Brad: I’m a bit lower, but still impressed. My final score is a 37/50. It’s a great whiskey, and I’d definitely recommend trying it, especially at the price point.
Combined Score: That gives us an overall average of 40.25/50, or 80.5/100. This bourbon just breaks the 40/50 threshold, making it a solid recommendation from us.
Conclusion
At the $40 price point, Johnny Drum Private Stock is an easy recommendation. Whether you’re a Willett fan or just exploring new bourbons, this bottle delivers a unique experience with its floral, leathery, and caramel notes. It’s a great value for the complexity it offers, making it worth picking up for your whiskey collection or trying at a bar. Once you hit the 40/50 score on our scale, you know it’s worth both your time and money.
If you’re into bold, complex bourbons that aren’t afraid to play with floral and leathery notes, Johnny Drum Private Stock is one you should try.
