Willett Distillery, a name steeped in the rich heritage of Kentucky bourbon, has taken a bold step into the future by announcing its first long-term partnership with Binder’s Stash, a rising star in the whiskey world hailing from Bardstown, Kentucky. This collaboration marks a significant shift for Willett, a distillery that has always prided itself on its independence and craftsmanship.
Founded in 1936, Willett has become one of the most sought-after bourbon producers, particularly among collectors who are willing to pay a premium for its highly coveted Family Estate Bourbons, recognizable by their iconic purple tops. These exquisite bottles are not just about whiskey; they symbolize artistry, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
In the past, Willett has dabbled in various fleeting partnerships, such as collaborations with Kiamichi Whiskey and Metallica’s Blackened Whiskey. But teaming up with Binder’s Stash is different—it reflects a strategic alliance that promises to elevate both brands in the saturated bourbon market. For fans of Willett and the emerging act of Binder’s Stash, this partnership is an exciting development, likely to result in innovative and rare whiskey offerings.
So, what does this partnership mean for Binder’s Stash? Quite simply, it opens the doors to Willett’s treasure trove of rare whiskey assets. Bill Binder, the founder of Binder’s Stash, is passionate about creating high-end, expressive whiskeys. Thanks to this collaboration, he now has exclusive access to Willett’s prized inventory, including experimental mashbills and specially aged barrels. Binder’s excitement is palpable as he mentions, “They’ve agreed to sell us some of their really special aged whiskies, which I find kind of hard to believe myself.” It’s clear that this partnership is a dream come true for a brand that has spent years carving out a niche in the competitive whiskey landscape.
Drew Kulsveen, Willett’s master distiller, echoes this enthusiasm, emphasizing the shared values between the two brands focused on quality and innovation. “This partnership sets the stage for future opportunities and represents a bold step forward in expanding the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of aged whiskey,” he states.
The origins of this collaboration date back to an informal advisory interaction when Binder was just starting his brand. Kulsveen’s advice about bottling issues led to a relationship that now culminates in a strategic partnership. “Drew said, Come on down here, and I’ll show you how we do our wax,” Binder recounts, adding that Kulsveen ultimately proposed a more comprehensive approach—letting Willett handle the bottling for Binder’s Stash.
This partnership not only provides Binder’s Stash access to Willett’s expertise but also utilizes Willett’s sophisticated bottling operations and robust distribution network. As a result, the first single-barrel releases from Binder’s Stash, featuring aged Willett spirits, are expected to hit the market this summer—an event that whiskey enthusiasts will undoubtedly be waiting for with bated breath.
“This one-of-a-kind partnership with Willett marks a turning point for Binder’s Stash,” says Bill Binder. “We’ve built our reputation by sourcing and releasing some of the most distinctive American whiskeys in the country, but Willett represents a different level: generational expertise, uncompromising quality, and a legacy that elevates everything it touches. Together, we’re setting a new bar for what American whiskey can be.”
A key highlight of Willett’s offerings is its “purple tops,” which refer to the Family Estate Bottled Bourbon and Rye. These are ultra-limited, single-barrel expressions that are bottled at barrel proof and personally selected for their exceptional character. With aging periods of 8 to 15 years or more, these bottles, marked by their unique purple wax seal, have become the gold standard for collectors. Each bottle features handwritten details like barrel number, age, and proof, making them truly unique.
In contrast, Willett also produces several other brands, like Rowan’s Creek and Noah’s Mill. While these are excellent and more accessible options, they don’t quite match the prestige of the purple tops, which are the crown jewels in Willett’s collection.
As Willett and Binder’s Stash embark on this new chapter together, both brands share a vision that celebrates craftsmanship and innovation in American whiskey. This partnership is more than just a business move; it’s a testament to the shared passion for quality and a commitment to creating exceptional whiskey experiences that will resonate with enthusiasts for generations to come.
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