April 2, 2025 
Revisiting Whiskey’s Past: Bond & Lillard vs. W.B. Saffell
When it comes to resurrecting old bourbon brands, few do it better than Wild Turkey and the Whiskey Barons Collection. Bond & Lillard and W.B. Saffell are two such revivals, each paying tribute to Kentucky’s rich bourbon history while offering a modern take on classic profiles.
Bond & Lillard traces its origins back to Lawrenceburg, KY, where the original distillery now lies in ruins. But Wild Turkey, the town’s most famous surviving distillery, sought to recreate the character of Bond & Lillard bourbon for this limited release. Using a blend of 4- and 6-year-old bourbon that has been charcoal filtered—a nod to traditional methods that mellow harsh notes into esters—this expression aims to highlight the brighter, more delicate aspects of bourbon. With floral and fruity aromas, rye spice, and a lingering smoky wood character, it’s a tribute to the refined bourbons of yesteryear.
W.B. Saffell, on the other hand, honors William B. Saffell, a legendary distiller whose name carries weight in Kentucky’s bourbon legacy. This small-batch whiskey leans into traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern refinements. With a high-corn mash bill complemented by rye and malted barley, it delivers bold flavor alongside smooth complexity, making it a versatile sipper whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail.
Both bourbons come from the same heritage-focused collection, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s break them down.
Bond & Lillard (100 Proof, 7 Years Old)
Nose:
This one kicks off with a fresh and fruity nose—green apple, vanilla cream (a solid hooyeah), and honey lead the way. Orange zest adds a pop of brightness, while light baking spices give it just enough depth to keep things interesting.
Palate:
The sip is clean and well-balanced. Green apple carries through from the nose, followed by a mild tea-like dryness. Clove, brown sugar, and baking spice round it out, creating a smooth yet flavorful pour.
Finish:
It’s soft, slightly drying, and lingers just long enough. The fruitiness sticks around, complemented by a touch of pepper and a growing nuttiness that builds after a few sips.
Final Thoughts:
Bond & Lillard leans toward the lighter, more approachable side of bourbon. It’s easy to drink and well-balanced, but it doesn’t necessarily wow. The apple and tea-like notes make it a unique pour, but it’s not bursting with complexity. A solid choice for those who enjoy a refined, fruit-forward bourbon.
Average Rating: 7.65
- Dylan: 7.7 | Scott: 7.6
W.B. Saffell (107 Proof, Blend of 6, 8, 10 & 12 Years)
Nose:
This one is richer and more complex right from the start. White pepper, dried apricot, and cinnamon hit first, followed by brown sugar and something oddly reminiscent of apple juice. It’s warm, inviting, and layered.
Palate:
The sip comes in bold with maple syrup, toasted pecans, and a deep leather note. Oak char and brown sugar add to the richness, but there’s an immediate dry bitterness creeping in that keeps it from feeling completely balanced.
Finish:
A bit of a rollercoaster—sticky sweetness at first, but then the bitterness quickly takes over. The shift from rich to dry is sharp, making it feel somewhat unrefined.
Final Thoughts:
W.B. Saffell starts off strong, but it doesn’t hold up. The front end is full of promise with its sweet and nutty richness, but the bitter, tannic finish throws it off course. It’s one of those bourbons that feels like it almost works but ultimately misses the mark.
Average Rating: 5.6
- Dylan: 5.7 | Scott: 5.5
Final Thoughts & Comparison
Bond & Lillard plays the long game—smooth, balanced, and consistent from start to finish. It may not have the most depth, but it doesn’t need to. It knows what it is and delivers.
W.B. Saffell, on the other hand, takes you on a journey—one that starts strong but leaves you wondering what went wrong. It tries to bring layers of richness, but the abrupt bitter turn in the finish holds it back.
The Verdict:
Bond & Lillard takes the win. It’s the more well-rounded and enjoyable pour, even if it’s not the most exciting. W.B. Saffell has its moments, but in the end, it can’t quite keep up.