Willett Family Estate Single Barrel Bourbon 8 Year Old #5227 124.0 Proof is a private barrel selection for the NH Liquor and Wine Outlet — New Hampshire's state liquor store system, one of the largest volume spirits retailers in the United States. The NHLC regularly conducts barrel picks from top distilleries, and their Willett selections are tracked by collectors as verified named picks with clear state-level distribution documentation. At 8 years old and 124.0 proof (62.0% ABV), Barrel #5227 is in the high-energy, grain-forward territory of Willett's younger single barrel expressions — vibrant and intense with the full barrel-strength character intact. Non-chill filtered, hand-bottled, with Willett's hand-labeled format.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Sweet grain, caramel, fresh citrus, vanilla, forward oak — energetic and vibrant at barrel strength
- Palate: Bold and concentrated — corn sweetness, brown sugar, rye pepper, baking spice, significant barrel heat, lively mouthfeel
- Finish: Long and warming with persistent spice and sweet oak
Product Details
| Type | Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon |
|---|---|
| Producer | Willett Distillery, Bardstown, KY |
| Barrel | #5227 — NH Liquor and Wine Outlet Pick |
| Age | 8 Years |
| Proof | 124.0 (62.0% ABV) |
| Filtration | Non-chill filtered, barrel strength |
| Size | 750ml |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NH Liquor and Wine Outlet?
The New Hampshire Liquor Commission operates one of the largest state liquor store systems in the US. Their barrel pick program selects single barrels from top distilleries including Willett — these picks are documented with state-level distribution records and are notable in collector circles for their verification and traceability.
How does Barrel #5227 at 124.0 proof compare to other 8-year Willett releases?
At 124.0 proof, this is one of the more powerful 8-year Willett expressions — higher proof than typical younger releases and more intense than the 104-109 proof range seen in some earlier 6-8 year barrels. The combination of young vibrant grain character with high proof makes for an intense, energetic pour that benefits from a few drops of water.
Why do state liquor board picks matter to collectors?
State liquor control board picks (NHLC, PLCB, etc.) are selected through official procurement programs with documented selection events. This makes them more traceable and verifiable than some private retail picks, and state distribution means bottles appeared in a specific, known market — making them regionally significant for collectors building geographic barrel archives.
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NOTE: Not Eligible for Return
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