The whiskey world just got a little more exciting with the release of a limited-edition 10-year rye whiskey from Willett Distillery and Wolves Whiskey. This collaboration, a seamless blend of Kentucky’s deep-rooted traditions and California’s bold innovation, delivers a bottle that’s as rich in story as it is in flavor. Available now at wolveswhiskeyca.com for $355, this 103-proof rye is a rare gem that whiskey enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
A Partnership Built on Craftsmanship
This isn’t the first time Willett and Wolves have joined forces, but it’s their most ambitious project yet. Marking their third collaboration, this release stands out as the only one with an age statement, showcasing a decade of careful aging and blending. Willett, a family-owned Kentucky distillery with roots stretching back to 1936, brings its time-honored expertise to the table. Wolves, a younger California brand founded in 2015 by James Bond (of UNDEFEATED fame) and Jon Buscemi (known for Buscemi and Truff), adds a modern, West Coast flair.
Jennifer Marks, President of Wolves Whiskey, summed it up perfectly: “Partnering with Willett has been an honor. This blend is a bridge between Kentucky’s storied legacy and our California perspective.” The result is a whiskey that feels both classic and fresh, a testament to the shared commitment to quality that defines both brands.
The Art of the Blend
What makes this rye so special? It starts with the barrels. Willett hand-picked 10-year-old Kentucky rye barrels, known for their bold, spicy character. Wolves, under the guidance of Head Blender Eddie Gonzalez, contributed rye aged for seven years in Indiana and finished for three years in Northern California’s unique climate. The combination of these aging environments tames the rye’s natural bite, creating a smoother, more complex profile.
The flavor is a journey in itself. On the nose, drinkers are greeted with bright notes of orange, caramel, and warm baking spices. Take a sip, and the palate comes alive with the cozy warmth of gingerbread, hints of tobacco, and the rich earthiness of toasted nuts. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering vanilla and caramel sweetness, punctuated by a subtle kick of spice that keeps things lively.
Bottled at 103 proof, this rye strikes a balance between strength and approachability, making it perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like a Manhattan. Its versatility and depth make it a standout for both seasoned whiskey drinkers and those just starting to explore rye’s bold character.
A Nod to Heritage in Every Detail
The bottle itself is a work of art, reflecting Willett’s storied history. The label features the distillery’s iconic bird and crown emblem, a symbol dating back to 1684 when it first appeared in London’s Pewter’s Hall. This emblem has adorned Willett’s bottles for decades, a reminder of the distillery’s enduring legacy. Founded by Thompson Willett and now led by his grandson, Drew Kulsveen, Willett remains fiercely independent, crafting small-batch whiskeys using mashbills perfected over generations.
Wolves, on the other hand, brings a modern edge to the partnership. Known for its luxury American single malt releases, the brand has carved out a niche by blending premium craftsmanship with a collector’s sensibility. Their small-batch approach ensures every release is something special, designed to be savored but also coveted by those who appreciate the finer things.
The Willett Legacy
Willett Distillery is more than just a name—it’s a piece of American whiskey history. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky, the family-owned operation has been producing exceptional spirits for over 80 years. The distillery’s grounds, where founder Thompson Willett once walked, still welcome visitors from around the world. Guests can enjoy tours, coffee, whiskey flights, vintage pours, and elevated dining, all steeped in the warm hospitality that defines the Willett experience.
Drew Kulsveen, the current master distiller, has earned accolades for his innovative yet respectful approach to whiskey-making. The rye mashbills used in this collaboration are the same ones that caught the attention of the James Beard Foundation, cementing Willett’s reputation for excellence. Every bottle from Willett feels like a connection to the past, crafted with the same care and precision that Thompson Willett brought to the distillery nearly a century ago.
Wolves’ West Coast Vision
Wolves Whiskey, though younger, is no less dedicated to its craft. Founded by James Bond and Jon Buscemi, the brand has quickly made a name for itself in the competitive world of American whiskey. With a focus on American single malt and small-batch releases, Wolves combines meticulous production with a modern, luxury-driven ethos. Their 14-year-old single malt library is a testament to their commitment to quality, and this rye collaboration shows they’re just as adept at working with traditional rye whiskey.
The California influence is evident in the finishing process, where the Northern California climate adds a unique softness to the rye. It’s a bold move that pays off, creating a whiskey that feels both familiar and new—a perfect reflection of Wolves’ mission to push boundaries while honoring tradition.
Why This Whiskey Matters
This 10-year rye is more than just a bottle; it’s a celebration of what happens when two distinct whiskey cultures come together. Kentucky’s rugged, time-tested methods meet California’s innovative spirit, resulting in a rye that’s as layered and complex as the story behind it. For whiskey lovers, it’s a chance to taste history in the making—a limited-edition release that captures the best of both worlds.
Priced at $355 for a 750ml bottle, this isn’t an everyday pour, but it’s worth every penny for those who value craftsmanship and rarity. Whether you’re adding it to your collection or cracking it open for a special occasion, this whiskey delivers an experience that’s hard to forget.
How to Get Your Hands on It
The Willett and Wolves 10-year rye is available now at wolveswhiskeyca.com, but you’ll need to act fast—limited releases like this don’t stick around long. Whether you’re a longtime Willett fan, a Wolves collector, or just someone who appreciates a damn good rye, this bottle is a must-try. It’s a chance to own a piece of whiskey history, one that bridges two regions, two traditions, and two visions for what great whiskey can be.
For more about Willett’s legacy, check out willettdistillery.com, where you can learn about their tours and offerings. For Wolves’ full lineup, wolveswhiskeyca.com has all the details on their premium releases. Grab a bottle, pour a glass, and toast to the art of whiskey done right.
