When it comes to the world of fine distilleries and the art of crafting exceptional spirits, one name stands out – Willett Distillery. Established in 1936 by the visionary Thompson Willett, this distillery has become synonymous with quality and tradition in the world of bourbon. But who is the mastermind behind this iconic distillery? Who holds the reins and ensures that the legacy of Willett Distillery lives on? In simple terms, Willett is owned by the passionate and dedicated descendants of the founder, Thompson Willett, who have continued to shepherd the company towards excellence.
Thompson Willett, a man with an unwavering passion for bourbon, laid the foundation for what would become a distilling dynasty. Since its inception, Willett Distillery has remained under the ownership and operation of the Willett family, passing down their knowledge, craftsmanship, and love for bourbon from one generation to the next.
Today, Drew Kulsveen and his wife, Janelle, proudly carry the torch as the owners of Willett Distillery. As the son-in-law of Martha Harriett Willett Kulsveen, Drew has a deep connection to the distillery and an intimate understanding of the rich history and time-honored traditions that define Willett. With his expertise and passion for bourbon, Drew, alongside his wife Janelle, has propelled Willett Distillery into the modern era while staying true to the core values and principles set forth by Thompson Willett.
Through their unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional bourbon and an emphasis on quality over quantity, the current owners of Willett Distillery have solidified its standing as one of the premier bourbon producers in the world. Their meticulous attention to detail, from selecting the finest grains to aging the whiskey in charred oak barrels, ensures that each bottle that bears the Willett name is a testament to the distillery’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
The ownership of Willett Distillery goes beyond mere business transactions or financial interests. The Willett family’s deep-rooted connection, spanning multiple generations, instills a sense of pride and responsibility in preserving the legacy and heritage of Willett Distillery. Their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and producing world-class spirits has not wavered over the years.
Being a family-owned and operated distillery brings a personal touch and an unparalleled level of attention to detail. It allows for a hands-on approach to every aspect of the production process, ensuring that the vision set forth by Thompson Willett is carried out faithfully. The familial bond and shared passion that runs through the veins of the Willett family are reflected in every bottle of their exquisitely crafted bourbon.
As the owners of Willett Distillery, Drew and Janelle Kulsveen continue to build upon the foundation laid by Thompson Willett over eight decades ago. They recognize that they are not just stewards of a distillery but guardians of a legacy. Their commitment to honoring the past while embracing innovation and the evolving palate of bourbon lovers has allowed Willett Distillery to thrive amidst a rapidly changing industry.
Furthermore, the ownership of Willett Distillery by the Kulsveen family ensures that the distillery remains a stronghold of family values, dedication, and passion. It is this unwavering commitment to their craft that makes every sip of Willett bourbon a testament to the enduring legacy of the Willett family.
In conclusion, Willett Distillery, their exceptional bourbons, and esteemed reputation are owned and cherished by the descendants of its founder, Thompson Willett. Drew and Janelle Kulsveen have maintained the traditions established by Thompson Willett, and their unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship have solidified Willett Distillery as an industry icon. As the family-owned and operated distillery continues to create exceptional bourbons, we can raise our glass and toast to the legacy of the Willett family.
