When it comes to American whiskey, Willett Straight Rye Whisky 10 years offers both richness and complexity. Established in 1936, this family-run distillery has gained a reputation for producing high-quality bourbons and ryes that have impressed collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Willett prides itself on crafting small-batch whiskies using time-honored methods, often aged in white oak barrels for a distinctive flavor profile. Over the years, Willett has built a legacy, thanks in part to its rare releases, which have become hot commodities. With numerous accolades and awards, it’s no wonder that their bottles are highly sought after.

Today, I’m diving into the Willett Straight Rye Whisky Rare Release 10 Years, aged in White Oak Barrels—a true gem for rye lovers.

Average Retail Price: $1,200+

Tasting Highlights

Appearance

In the glass, the 10-year rye shows off a deep amber color with golden highlights. It’s a rich hue that hints at its decade-long slumber in white oak. Swirling the glass reveals a thick, luxurious viscosity, with slow-moving legs that cling to the sides, signaling a robust and oily mouthfeel to come.

Nose

The nose on this rye opens with a wave of warm sweet carmel, baking spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—with aged barrel funk, but it doesn’t stop there. As it opens up, I’m hit with notes of toasted oak and leather, which seamlessly blend with dark cherries and a hint of raspberry jam. There’s also a subtle herbal quality, reminiscent of freshly cut rye grass. The layers are beautifully balanced, creating a rich complexity that invites you to keep inhaling, discovering something new with every sniff.

Palate

On the first sip, the whisky makes a bold statement. It greets you with a zesty fruit cake, lemon peel, blood orange, notes of pineapples. Classic rye spiciness—pepper and cinnamon—dancing across your palate. As it evolves, the mid-palate introduces sweeter elements, like caramel and honey, tempered by the toasted oak flavors.

There’s an earthy undertone here too, offering hints of tobacco, rum, and dried fruits. The mouthfeel is full and warm, with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming your taste buds.

Complexity

The balance in this Willett 10-year rye is remarkable. It manages to maintain a spicy intensity typical of rye whiskies, while allowing the oak aging to mellow things out with sweeter, more refined flavors. Every sip feels like an exploration, with new layers revealing themselves—from bold spices to rich caramel, buttercream, followed by the herbal and earthy undertones. The complexity is what makes this rye truly stand out—there’s a harmony that ties it all together, making it both approachable and intriguing for those who appreciate depth in their whisky.

Finish

The finish on this rye is long and satisfying. That rye spice lingers, but it softens into a creamy buttery croissant finish. I notice dark chocolate, and a touch of dried apricot. There’s also a pleasant warmth that coats your throat, with a slightly peppery kick at the very end. It’s the kind of finish that leaves you savoring each moment and eager for the next sip.

Overall Experience and Thoughts

Willett Straight Rye Whisky 10 years is nothing short of impressive. From the moment it hits the glass to the last lingering notes on your palate, it offers a rich, layered experience that feels both bold and refined. It’s a rye that will please seasoned whiskey drinkers with its depth and complexity, but it’s also approachable enough for those just getting into higher-proof, aged whiskies. The oak aging adds a beautiful balance to the spice-forward nature of the rye, making it a well-rounded and memorable pour.

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Recommendation

If you’re a rye fan—or even just a whiskey lover looking to explore more refined, aged expressions—this 10-year Willett should absolutely be on your radar. It’s a bottle that offers both richness and complexity, perfect for slow sipping and special occasions. If you’ve had the chance to sample this rare release, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment and share your experience!