Willett Founders
(NOTE: FOUNDERS ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
1
Britt Kulsveen
Britt Kulsveen was born and raised in Bardstown, Kentucky. Britt grew up immersed in the rhythms of distilling. She earned a degree in political science from Louisiana State University, then refined her whiskey-making skills at L’allemond Ethanol Tech in Montreal, Quebec.
2
Drew Kulsveen
Drew attended Western Kentucky University, eventually earning degrees in marketing and economics. Returning home, intent on combining his business insight with hands-on distillation work, he initially focused on blending, but soon shifted to designing and engineering Willett’s current distilling setup.
3
Even Kulsveen
At the age of 14, Even Kulsveen emigrated to the United States, embarking on a journey that would ultimately shape his life, as well as the destiny of Willett Distillery. He worked as a merchant marine, honed skills as a chef, and was a fine decanter craftsman.
4
John David Willett
John David Willett is a foundational figure in the history of Kentucky bourbon. His vision and craftsmanship laid the groundwork for one of the region’s most enduring family distilleries. John David Willett’s career as a distiller was marked by dedication to quality and innovation. Willett’s approach combined traditional methods with meticulous attention to detail
5
Thompson Willett
In 1936, Thompson became the President of the Willett Distilling Company. He would hold this position until 1982. Using the bourbon recipe of his grandfather John David Willett, they produced their first batch of 30 barrels on March 17, 1937, St. Patrick's Day. Thompson and his family made Old Bardstown the flagship brand, selling it for $4.89 per fifth in 1955.
6
William Willett, Jr.
In the new Kentucky territory, Willett continued practicing the family craft. Later distilling endeavors by his descendants would cite his very mash bill recipes as their origin. As head of the family operation, he passed down both land and whiskey-making tradition to his progeny, laying foundations that would blossom over time.
7
William Willett, Sr.
The Willett family has a fascinating history deeply tied to both craftsmanship and distilling. William Willett Sr. was born in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and grew up on the family plantation called Bealington, not too far from where Upper Marlboro is today.