Evan Kulsveen
Even Kulsveen was born on June 6, 1944, in Hamar, Norway, a small town steeped in history along the banks of Norway’s largest lake, Mjøsa. His early years were marked by a restless spirit and a strong work ethic, qualities that would later serve him well. At the age of 14, Kulsveen made the courageous decision to emigrate to the United States, embarking on a journey that would ultimately shape his life, as well as the destiny of Willett Distillery. In America, Even’s early career was diverse and formative. He worked as a merchant marine, gaining global experience and a broadened worldview. Additionally, he honed skills as a chef and a fine decanter craftsman, talents that later influenced his appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry involved in bourbon making. This eclectic background uniquely positioned Even for the challenges ahead that he didn’t yet know he would face in the world of distilling.
Even’s personal life suddenly intertwined closely with bourbon heritage when, in 1972, he met and married Kentucky girl Martha Willett. Martha was a direct descendant of the Willett family, whose distilling roots trace back to the 1800s. From the beginning, their marriage symbolized a fusion of tradition and new vision. Together, the Kulsveens soon nurtured a shared dream: to revive the family distillery that had once been a beacon of Kentucky bourbon.
The Willett Distillery had originally been founded by A.L. (Thompson) Willett in 1936, but it had struggled through the 1960s and into the 1970s, barely surviving by producing fuel ethanol, then finally shuttering operations in the late 70s. In 1984, Even and Martha seized the opportunity to purchase the distillery property, marking the rebirth of the company under the name Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (KBD), Ltd. Once operational, Even’s leadership was instrumental in transforming the business. His global perspective, business acumen, and commitment to quality helped position Willett for success both domestically and internationally. Recognizing the growing global demand for premium bourbon, Even spearheaded efforts to expand export markets, ensuring Willett’s presence on the world stage.
Willett bottling area, 1930s
Under Even’s stewardship, the distillery adopted a philosophy that combined respect for time-honored methods with a willingness to innovate. This approach led to the name change back to Willett Distillery and the release of several acclaimed bourbon brands such as Willett Pot Still Reserve, Johnny Drum, and Rowan’s Creek. These products became renowned for their rich flavor profiles and authentic craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of the Kentucky bourbon tradition.
Even and Martha’s commitment to the family business extended beyond their own generation. Their children, brother and sister Drew Kulsveen and Britt Kulsveen, have taken on significant roles in the company, continuing the legacy with passion and innovation. Drew serves as the Master Distiller, overseeing production and blending, while Britt holds executive leadership roles, including President and Chief Whiskey Officer. The spouses of both younger Kulsveens also play roles at the company, emphasizing the relationship between distilling and family that routinely manifests in Kentucky bourbon-making.
Together, the Kulsveen family has ensured that Willett Distillery remains a vibrant, family-owned enterprise that honors its past while embracing the future. Even’s vision for a multi-generational family business has been realized through his children’s active involvement and the distillery’s expanding footprint.
Beyond his professional achievements, Even is known for his warm personality, humility, and unwavering dedication to family. He and Martha built a life grounded in love and mutual respect. Even’s journey from a young Norwegian immigrant to a titan in the American bourbon industry is an inspiring testament to perseverance and vision. Though now retired from day-to-day operations, Even remains a beloved figure within the Willett community and is often found sharing stories of bourbon lore or offering sage advice to the younger generation of distillers. His legacy is not only etched in barrels but also in the hearts of those who carry forward the Willett name. Sadly, Even’s beloved wife and business partner, Martha Kulsveen, passed away on May 6, 2025.
Kulsveen’s contributions to the bourbon industry have been widely recognized. In 2019, he was inducted into the prestigious Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. Additionally, he received the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, further acknowledging his role in shaping the bourbon industry and promoting Kentucky’s heritage worldwide. His story remains one of passion, heritage, and revitalization. From humble beginnings in frigid Norway to becoming a bourbon industry icon, his life embodies the American dream. More importantly, because of Even Kulsveen’s vision and leadership, Willett Distillery has flourished into a symbol of quality and tradition, ensuring that the Willett family’s legacy, as well as its fine bourbon, will endure for generations to come.
Sources:
1. Kentucky Distillers' Association, Hall of Fame Induction, 2019
2. Willett Distillery webpage, kentuckybourbonwhiskey.com
3. Kentucky Derby Museum, derbymuseum.org, 2023
4. Bourbon Veach blog, "A Tale Of Two Rectifiers Part Two"
Contributed by Tracy McLemore, Fairview, Tennessee, and Jim Silliman, Bardstown, Kentucky
