Willett 80th Anniversary

Really, really good bourbon. A medium to heavy sweetness on the palate that simply wasn't there on the nose. Full flavors of nutmeg and vanilla mid-palate. Heat builds up as it comes down the back of the throat. That heat lingers for a short while until it simply can't go anymore. The one problem I had with this was that it didn't leave much of an impression after it was swallowed. I felt the lingering could've lasted longer. Otherwise, I really liked it.

Nose: Strong oak, wood shavings, black liquorice, black pepper, caramel. Palate: Toasted oak, black licorice, burnt crème brûlée, scorched orange. Finish: A lengthy, peppery finish with profound oak notes. This is remarkable. Bold, powerful, and intense. The oak is delicious and perfectly complemented by the other scents and tastes. It tastes like a very mature bourbon. I also detect some distinctive flavors in this one that are uncommon in other drams.

Tried at Vanguard. Good there, disappointing at home (my bottle). Uninteresting corn with a hint of Willett spice just teasing you before it vanished into corny dryness.

I didn't care for it initially, it was unbalanced and strange. With some air it opened up nicely, revealing some sweetness and complex flavors, solid.

Reminded me of Jefferson's, with a grainy quality. A bit of spice, perhaps some cinnamon, but ultimately quite disappointing.

If the finish wasn't so brief and dry, this would receive a much higher rating.