Willett Family Estate Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon 13 Year

Following a 13-year-old Cream of KY. In a tasting of multiple 13-year-olds, this ranked second. Barrel 1412, bottle #82 of 123, at 126.6 proof. A very appealing caramel hue with slow-moving legs. The nose initially presents oak and leather, then evolves to reveal rock candy, floral notes, a hint of musty funk, caramel, and bubblegum. Very little ethanol presence, especially considering the proof. Spicy and vanilla notes, a slight tingle followed by a flavor that gradually transforms into warmth in the chest. A lingering sweetness. On a second tasting, oak and leather return more prominently. I'd say this drinks much lighter than its stated proof. Later on, more earthy elements appear, along with spearmint, fennel, and something akin to damp, brown pipe tobacco. This is a rare find, and my guess is it's largely from Heaven Hill. The dusty oak funk, bubblegum, and touch of spearmint remind me of Elijah Craig. To verify, I sampled a store pick EC 13-year-old at 90 proof that's been open for about two years and is half consumed. It has a distinct musty floor and leather cowboy boot taste but shares the same dusty bubblegum and spearmint characteristics. Kudos to the origin of this bottle, whatever it may be. It is truly exceptional and among the best I've encountered. May more like it appear in the future.