Rowan's Creek vs Willett Pot Still: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 08:01 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Rowan’s Creek vs Willett Pot Still in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Rowan’s Creek vs Willett Pot Still: Comparison

Rowan’s Creek: A smooth and inviting bourbon with notes of caramel, brown sugar, dark fruit, and oak. Its balanced flavor profile and lack of harsh heat make it a perfect choice for both new bourbon explorers and seasoned sippers alike.

Willett Pot Still: A sweet and easygoing bourbon with aromas of French toast, caramel, and oak. On the palate, it offers flavors of brown sugar, fruit, oak, and spice, culminating in a finish with hints of oak, leather, and spice. Its unique decanter adds aesthetic appeal to its pleasant flavor profile.

Verdict: Both Rowan’s Creek and Willett Pot Still offer delightful bourbon experiences, each with its own unique characteristics. Rowan’s Creek is smoother and more approachable, while Willett Pot Still boasts a sweeter flavor profile. Choose based on your preference for flavor profile and aesthetic appeal, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Rowan’s Creek: Smooth Sailing

Nose: Caramel, brown sugar, oak
Palate: Dark fruit, vanilla, rye spice, brown sugar, oak
Finish: Dry, oak, apple peel
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Noah’s Mill

Rowan’s Creek might not be a treasure map leading to hidden distillery secrets, but its smooth and inviting flavor profile makes it a great companion for new bourbon explorers. Here’s why:

Sweet Beginnings: Dive into a welcoming nose of caramel and brown sugar, with a hint of oak for depth. It’s like a warm hug from your favorite dessert.

Fruity & Balanced: Take a sip and be greeted by upfront sweetness bursting with fruit, vanilla, and brown sugar. Don’t worry, some rye spice and oak join the party, keeping things interesting.

Easy Rider: The finish lingers just long enough, offering a touch of dryness with oak and apple notes. And guess what? No harsh heat to burn your way out!

Smooth Operator: Compared to Basil Hayden’s, Rowan’s Creek packs a bolder punch with more body and proof. You won’t find that signature peanut note here, just pure, smooth bourbon goodness.

Perfect Port in a Storm: Looking for a no-fuss, easy-drinking bourbon? Rowan’s Creek has your back. It’s approachable, crowd-pleasing, and sure to be a hit with both newbies and seasoned sippers alike.

Behind the Curtain: Don’t let the sourced whiskey whisper hold you back! The blend of four unique bourbons, aged for an undisclosed period, creates a delicious harmony. Plus, a 93-point score from Wine Enthusiast speaks volumes.

Ready to Set Sail? Rowan’s Creek is a solid choice for anyone seeking a smooth and enjoyable bourbon experience. So, raise a glass and embark on your own flavorful journey!

Willett Pot Still: Sweet Sips with a Dash of Mystery

Nose: French toast, caramel, oak
Palate: Brown sugar, fruit, oak, spice
Finish: Oak, leather, spice
Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Willett Rye 4 Year

Willett Pot Still piques curiosity with its unique decanter and undisclosed origins. While whispers suggest a connection to established names like Heaven Hill, the true source remains a delicious enigma. Let’s delve into its flavor profile:

Sweet & Easygoing: Imagine warm French toast drizzled with caramel, kissed by a hint of oak. That’s the welcoming aroma of Willett. On the palate, ripe fruit takes center stage, offering a smooth, easy-drinking experience.

Subtle Nuances: Don’t expect mind-blowing complexity. Willett leans light-bodied, with moderate oak and caramel touches, leaving a whisper of spice and apple on the finish. It’s more about pleasantness than fireworks.

Aesthetics on Point: Beyond the taste, the decanter shaped like a pot still makes a handsome addition to any home bar. So, if you appreciate both visual and liquid appeal, Willett might be your match.

The Verdict:

Willett won’t knock your socks off with depth, but it offers a sweet, enjoyable journey for casual sippers. The decanter adds a bonus touch, making it a good option if you prioritize aesthetics.

Facts & Figures:

Mash bill (rumored): 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley
Age: 8-10 years
Accolades: Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2008)

Ready to try it? Remember, taste is subjective! What delights one palate might not wow another. So, grab a glass and see if Willett’s unique charm resonates with you.

What do Rowan’s Creek and Willett have in common?

Both Noah’s Mill and Willett are part of Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (KBD), a privately owned and operated company.

However, it’s important to note that these bourbons are sourced from various distilleries located in Kentucky, rather than being produced at KBD’s own distillery.