Rowan's Creek Kentucky Bourbon: The Soulful Sip from Willett's Small Batch Collection
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Kentucky bourbon with Rowan's Creek Kentucky Bourbon, a distinguished small-batch straight bourbon whiskey from the esteemed Willett Distillery. Named for the very creek that meanders through the distillery grounds in Bardstown, Rowan's Creek embodies a harmonious blend of tradition, unique terroir, and artisanal craftsmanship. It's a testament to the Kulsveen family's dedication to producing authentic and flavorful American whiskey.
Rowan's Creek is part of Willett's revered Small Batch Boutique Bourbon Collection. While the precise mash bill is kept a proprietary secret, its flavor profile strongly suggests a high-rye component, distinguishing it with a vibrant spice that beautifully complements the corn's inherent sweetness. The bourbon undergoes a careful distillation process using an unspecified combination of Willett's diverse stills, which include a copper and stainless steel column still, a copper doubler, and a Vendome copper pot still.
The true magic of Rowan's Creek unfolds during its maturation. It is aged for a minimum of 4 years (and often includes barrels aged 5-15 years, with some past expressions carrying a 12-year age statement) in new, char #4 American oak barrels. This aging takes place in the unique microclimate of Kentucky, allowing the bourbon to develop its deep amber hue and intricate flavor profile. Bottled by hand at a robust 50.05% ABV (100.1 Proof) using water sourced from the namesake limestone-filtered spring water of Rowan's Creek, this bourbon is crafted with precision and care, delivering a spirited yet approachable experience.
Key Characteristics:
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Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon: Crafted in limited quantities by the highly respected Willett Distillery.
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High-Rye Mash Bill (Likely): Contributes to a distinctive spicy and complex character.
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Aged 4+ Years: Matured in new, charred American oak barrels, often containing older barrels in the blend.
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Bottled at 100.1 Proof (50.05% ABV): Offers a full-bodied flavor with a satisfying warmth that remains approachable.
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Water from Rowan's Creek: Utilizes limestone-filtered spring water from the eponymous creek.
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Hand-Bottled: Each bottle is filled and labeled by hand, emphasizing its artisanal nature.
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Rich Amber Color: A inviting hue reflecting its barrel aging.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep amber to auburn.
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Nose: A lively bouquet of sweet caramel and vanilla, intertwined with bright floral notes, honey, and a distinctive spicy, minty, herbal character. Hints of orange peel, cherries, and fresh-cut oak also emerge.
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Palate: Velvety and well-rounded, delivering classic bourbon sweetness of caramel and vanilla. Flavors of warm honey, citrus, and a medley of baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and chili pepper are prominent. Notes of dried fruit (pears, dates) and a touch of maple add complexity.
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Finish: Long, lingering, and surprisingly smooth. A pleasant warmth leads to notes of dried peaches, lemon, cedar, a light smoke, and a persistent herbal or minty spice, culminating in a dry, woody conclusion.
Awards & Recognition:
Rowan's Creek Kentucky Bourbon has consistently garnered high praise and prestigious awards, underscoring its exceptional quality:
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Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) (multiple years, including 2005 and 2011).
- 93 points from Wine Enthusiast.
- 92 points from Whisky Advocate.
- Perennially recognized by various spirits competitions and reviewers for its balance, complexity, and distinct flavor profile within the small batch bourbon category.
Overall Impression:
Rowan's Creek Kentucky Bourbon is a testament to the harmonious marriage of rich tradition and a unique profile. Its robust proof, intriguing high-rye character, and careful aging result in a bourbon that is both complex and remarkably approachable. Whether you're seeking a distinctive sipping experience, a flavorful foundation for classic bourbon cocktails, or a compelling addition to your collection, Rowan's Creek offers a memorable and truly authentic taste of Kentucky's bourbon heritage.
