Willett Family Estate 8 Year Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

The Willett Family Estate 8 Year Wheated Bourbon is a finely aged wheated bourbon offering a surprising balance of pastry-like sweetness, warm baking spices, and lingering oak complexity. Bottled at a moderate 108 proof without chill filtration, it plays both rich and refined—but opinions vary on whether it delivers deep enough nuance at its premium price.

🌾 Provenance & Craft

• Aged 8 years in char #4 American oak, first fill, then bottle-diluted to 108 proof, non-chill filtered to retain flavor depth

• 2025 release.

👃 Nose

• Sweet pastry aromas: candied almonds, dark brown sugar, confectioner’s sweetness, maple

• Underlying fruit character: raspberry skins, fig‑like richness, plus gentle oak spice in cinnamon and clove 

👄 Palate

• Mouthfeel: Plush and fluffy, echoing the sweet, dessert-like nose 

• Flavors: Heavy oak and warming spice (tobacco, cinnamon, dusty chestnut), with a buried fruit note—pomegranate/raisin—and a faint chocolate edge 

• Some reviewers highlight an unusual grape‑like sweetness resembling artificial grape juice or starfruit, adding a unique twist

🔚 Finish

• Medium length; evolves to oak tannins, burnt caramel or toffee, and fading baking spice 

• Finish also leans toward baker’s chocolate and sweet oak—though some find the fruity dimensions slump toward the end 

🎯 Who It’s For

• Wheated bourbon lovers seeking refined oak, spice, and baking sweetness.

• Collectors & curious drinkers drawn to Willett’s estate expressions.

• Ideal neat or on ice—though some fruitier notes open up with dilution 

✅ Final Take

Willett’s 8‑Year Wheated Bourbon is a lusciously spiced and sweet bourbon with suave barrel character. Its plush mouthfeel and warm cinnamon-and-chocolate depth make it enjoyable. However, if you're looking for layered complexity through to the finish—especially at its price point—expect some variance in satisfaction. It’s best considered a polished, comforting whiskey rather than an adventurous sip.