Binder’s Stash Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The newest bottle for the SSF Bottle Club is an exceptionally rare Willett Experimental Bourbon, and this one comes with a story. In 2018, SSF co-founder Chris Shepherd visited Willett Distillery and, while selecting barrels with Master Distiller Drew Kulsveen, was introduced to experimental work exploring different wood preparations, charring techniques, barrel sizes and aging methods. Years later, Shepherd discovered Binder’s Stash, a collaboration with Willett that offered access to some of those same experimental barrels. In April 2026, Shepherd and fellow Bottle Club member Frank Stagg joined Bill Binder and friends Jaime Canete of Monteverde and Jay Legendre for a 48-hour barrel-picking adventure, ultimately selecting this extraordinary expression. Made from Willett’s original 72% corn, 13% rye and 15% barley mash bill, the barrel comes from Rickhouse 1, Floor 1—the first rickhouse built after Prohibition in 1937—and was selected for its distinctive aging environment and exceptionally nuanced character. Bottled at 126 proof, non-chill filtered and with no water added, this one-of-a-kind barrel produced just 150 bottles. Once they’re gone, they’re gone for good, making this a true collector’s bottle and a special full-circle moment nearly eight years in the making.