The Legends Series is an ongoing celebration of the culture, people and history of bourbon.
The 2018 Legends Series consists of three events. Click here to learn more about the series. The third in this series features Even Kulsveen of Willett Distillery.
EVEN KULSVEEN
If Even were a whiskey he would be Johnny Drum Black Label, a classic balance with equal parts caramel, oak and pepper. Born in Norway, Even’s meticulous attention to detail served him well in roles ranging from barkeep to military cook and fine decanter craftsman. Together Even and his wife Martha Willett Kulsveen purchased the distillery property in 1984. Immediately Even’s expertise in export markets became an imperative value. Popularity for brown spirits in the US was on the decline while numerous foreign markets were growing. Asian markets demonstrated a thirst for whiskey and an appreciation for artistic packaging. Even positioned Willett to provide the best of both. During the distillery dormant years, Even sold premium aged products overseas. Single barrels were sold via independent contract bottling as well as specially co-mingled small batch selections. Even developed the heightened palate discretion of a Master Blender - a gift that has shaped the current boutique small batch collection. Even is a profound and willing teacher, not only to his son and daughter that work along side him but to everyone that crosses his path. Even works seven days a week and can only be lured away by his delightful grandchildren.
BRITT KULSVEEN
If Britt were a whiskey she would be Pure Kentucky, the Gemini of Bourbons. Like this aptly named whiskey, Britt is vibrant, bold and spicy. Britt is a native of Bardstown, KY and graduate of Louisiana State University where she studied political science and responsible consumption. Britt also studied distillation at L’allemond Ethanol Tech in Montreal, Quebec. In 2005, following the wake of hurricane Katrina, Britt returned home to join the family distilling business. Britt and her brother Drew represent the family’s fifth generation to work at the Willett Distillery since its construction in 1936. Britt is responsible for everything from compliance to strategy and development. Britt and her cheerful daughter Scout enjoy entertaining and cooking together (most especially purple, chocolate chip pancakes) in their historic home located in the most beautiful small town in America. Britt’s commitment to positive thinking has an infectious and uplifting impact on friends, family and coworkers.
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