We are happy to report that our first batches of Willow Creek Straight Bourbon have been a smash hit. There’s only one problem—we’re having trouble keeping it in stock!
But worry not, bourbon lovers, we now have a tasty solution: the inaugural Willow Creek Bourbon, a new sibling to our Straight Bourbon.
One Small Difference
So what’s the difference between the two you might ask? Not much, except for the fact that the Willow Straight Bourbon is aged for two years in new American oak barrels, while the new Willow Creek Bourbon is aged for one year in new American oak barrels. Otherwise, the recipe and distilling methods are identical.
However, because the Straight Bourbon requires two years of aging prior to bottling, it’s harder to keep in stock. By adding a one-year-aged bourbon into the mix, we can keep the vibes rolling all year long.
Surprisingly Smooth
Just like the Straight Bourbon, the Willow Creek Bourbon is distilled from a mash of corn, barley and rye. After mashing and fermentation, it is matured for one year in new heavily charred American oak barrels.
To compensate for the shorter aging period, Head Distiller Kevin Coulton matures our Bourbon in smaller 20-gallon barrels in contrast to the 53-gallon barrels used for the Straight Bourbon. “These smaller barrels amplify the liquid-to-barrel surface area, so the maturation and oak synergy happens faster,” Kevin says.
The result? A Bourbon ($55) that very closely mirrors the signature flavors and remarkable textures of our Straight Bourbon ($65). “Honestly, I’m surprised just how good it turned out to be,” Kevin says. “It’s pretty incredible how smooth and approachable it is, considering the shorter aging period.”
Distilled from a mash of corn, barley, and rye, Willow Creek Bourbon has a clean bite that whiskey lovers are familiar with, but with robust flavor and sweet caramel undertones.
Click below to buy it online, or visit the Willow Creek Distillery Tasting Room to try it for yourself.
