BARDSTOWN, Ky. - The Bar at Willett is one of 20 semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Award in the category of “Outstanding Bar.” The honor is a reflection of The Bar’s commitment to excellence in hospitality, craftsmanship, and education designed to deliver an unparalleled guest experience. The Bar is the only James Beard “Outstanding Bar” national semifinalist in Kentucky and the only Distillery-affiliated bar.

Located at the historic family-owned and operated Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Ky. The Bar at Willett is known for its impeccable culinary and cocktail experience in the heart of Bourbon Country. The program at the bar relies on an in-house, curated ice program unique to the Kentucky Bourbon industry and allows the bar team to make all cocktails consistently with particular attention paid to dilution, temperature, and texture in every cocktail.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a James Beard semifinalist,” said Andy Pope, General Manager and Beverage Director for The Bar at Willett. “Our bar serves guests with an experience reflective of Willett’s family heritage which invites guests to enjoy classically-inspired cocktails and small plates in an intimate and attentive setting. Our bar staff curates an atmosphere grounded in the principles and history of finely-crafted cocktails.”

The James Beard Awards celebrate excellence in the food and beverage industry. Being named a semifinalist is a significant milestone, recognizing The Bar at Willett's place among the nation’s finest.

In the category of “Outstanding Bar,” the James Beard Foundation recognizes bars that demonstrate consistent excellence in curating a selection or in the preparation of drinks, along with outstanding atmosphere, hospitality, and operations. Each bar must represent the values of the James Beard Foundation.

Between 2015 and 2019, Willett Distillery Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen was nominated for five James Beard Awards in the category of “Outstanding Wine, Spirits, or Beer Professional.” Winners of the James Beard Awards will be announced on June 16 in Chicago, Ill.

About The Bar at Willett
Located at the site of the historic Willett Distillery and inspired by a storied family heritage, The Bar at Willett opened in 2019 and specializes in small plates, vintage pours and classically-inspired cocktails carefully executed by Executive Chef John Sleasman and General Manager/Beverage Director Andy Pope. Visit us at thebaratwillett.com.

About Willett Distillery
Established in 1936, three short years after prohibition, the Willett family chose the original family hog farm, situated at the highest point in Nelson County, Kentucky, to begin construction on the Willett Distillery. By St Patrick’s Day 1937, the first barrel of whiskey was rolled into Warehouse A. Approaching 90 years, Willett continues to make fine Kentucky Bourbon and Kentucky Rye Whiskeys. It remains independent and, truly, family-owned and -operated.