1990s Willett/KBD Old Distiller 12 Year 86 Proof 750ml

Experience the smooth refinement of Old Distiller Kentucky Straight Bourbon, a 'Custom Made' whiskey from Fairfield Distillery. Its charcoal-filtered purity delivers a beautifully balanced palate of vanilla and caramel, culminating in a clean, inviting finish. Discover the hidden gem of Kentucky bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Initial notes of sweet corn and vanilla bean, characteristic of a well-crafted bourbon. Underlying hints of toasted oak and a delicate wisp of caramel emerge, hinting at its maturity despite being NAS. A subtle herbaceous note, perhaps mint or sweet tea, adds complexity.

Palate: A surprisingly soft and approachable entry given its proof. The charcoal filtering is evident in the velvety smooth mouthfeel. Flavors of butterscotch, honey, and light brown sugar dominate, interwoven with a gentle spice of cinnamon and nutmeg. The 'Custom Made' aspect likely contributes to a balanced, nuanced profile, avoiding any aggressive ethanol burn, even without significant age. A touch of nutty sweetness, like roasted pecans, develops mid-palate.

Finish: The finish is medium in length, clean and remarkably smooth, a clear benefit of the charcoal filtering. Sweet oak persists, fading into a pleasant warmth with lingering notes of vanilla extract and a faint, sweet corn character. There's a subtle dry astringency at the very end, keeping it from being overly cloying and encouraging another sip.

About the Distillery

Fairfield Distillery Company is a relatively obscure but dedicated producer, known for their meticulous attention to detail and traditional Kentucky bourbon-making techniques. While information is scarce, their focus on a 'Custom Made' approach suggests a commitment to crafting unique, small-batch expressions rather than mass production, emphasizing quality over quantity.