WOLVES X WILLETT 10 YEAR RYE & WOLVES 5 YEAR AMERICAN SINGLE MALT
USA
Why Buy: Willett seldom goes in for joint ventures, so the on-going collab between this industry legend and rising craft star Wolves is a HUGE deal. Now, add in the fact that this superlative rye is the first age-statement release of the three batches they’ve done together, and the fact that it's also the oldest of those three — 10 years, as opposed to 6 or 7 — and you have an absolute run-don’t-walk must-have for collectors. Oh, and did we mention that there was no release last year in 2023, and we’re not certain when they’ll be back with another? Let us say it again: must. have. And let’s not forget the other half of this offer: Wolves' new 5 Year single malt, double pot distilled in small batches, matured in California Cab French Oak, and given a secondary maturation in aged Cognac casks, a release that further cements Wolves’ reputation as an exciting, detail-oriented innovator.
What They’re Saying: Forbes recently spotlighted the release of the 5 Year American Single Malt, which marks Wolves' transition from producing limited editions to generating a year-round flagship product — and amounts to a bold statement of intent from a brand that’s joined the upper echelons of whiskey producers.
Our Tasting Notes: The 10 Year Rye opens dramatically, with a complex blend of orange peel, caramel, and baking spices, with intriguing notes of chocolate and raspberry jam. The palate delivers on this promise with flavors of gingerbread, tobacco, and toasted nuts, all wrapped in a velvety mouthfeel. The finish lingers beautifully, balancing vanilla and caramel sweetness with a pop of spice. The 5 Year American Single Malt brings a different aromatic attack: ripe pears and honey, accented by tangerine and a subtle graininess from the malt. On the palate, it's a graceful dance of sweet and tart, with honey and pears interplaying with vibrant, gently acidic citrus notes. The finish is impressively handled, with hints, once again, of honey, but joined this time with subtle hits of cayenne and marvelous notes of cognac, all underpinned by a nice, spreading warmth.
The Story: Willett, as you well know, is an American legend, an American original. What you might not know is that they are careful about their partnerships; after all, when you’re that revered a name, there is, it would seem, little to gain in teaming up with others, and much to lose. But they’ve made a rare exception in this case, a massive sign of the respect for Wolves Whiskey who consistently crafts premium, small-batch releases for the most discerning whiskey enthusiasts .This exclusive blend highlights both brands’ commitment to exceptional quality, technique and flavor, while paying tribute to their respective homes of Kentucky and California.
The Specs: The 10 Year is composed of 60% Willet 10 Year Rye (51% rye, 34% corn, 15% malted barley) and the rest a 10-year Indiana Rye (95% rye, 5% malted barley) that was aged for 7 years in Indiana and an additional 3 years in Northern California to soften the rye spice. The 5 Year American Single Malt begins with a mash of two-row malted barley, fermented with California Ale yeast. After distillation in the alembic still, it spends five years maturing in California wine barrels, exposed to the intense Arizona heat. The final touch is a finishing period in aged Cognac casks, adding layers of complexity to the final product.
Fun Fact: This new label pays homage to the Willett bird and crown which first appeared in the Pewter's Hall of London in 1684 and still appears on their bottles today.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your whiskeys will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec 21, 2024 - Mar 20, 2025). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer only valid in AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, KY, MD, NJ, NV, & TX. This offer will expire on Thursday, October 31, 2024.