The world of whiskey celebrated its finest on March 26, 2025, as the global winners of the World Whiskies Awards were announced. This prestigious event, held at the iconic Waldorf Hotel in London, brought together whiskey lovers, industry experts, and top producers from around the globe. Among the night’s big winners were two standout names from Kentucky: Bardstown Bourbon Co. and Estes PR. These companies proved that the Bluegrass State continues to be a powerhouse in the spirits world, earning well-deserved recognition on an international stage.
Bardstown Bourbon Co., a rising star under the Lofted Spirits umbrella, walked away with the title of Global Brand Innovator of the Year. This award highlights their creative approach to crafting bourbon and pushing the boundaries of what whiskey can be. Leading the charge at Bardstown is Master Distiller Steve Nally, a legend in the bourbon game. With over 50 years of experience and a spot in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, Nally’s expertise has helped shape the company into a leader in the industry. His hands-on work, alongside folks like Dan Callaway, the Vice President of Product Development, has made Bardstown Bourbon a name to watch.
Not far behind, Estes PR snagged the Global PR Team of the Year award. For more than two decades, this Kentucky-based firm has been telling the stories of spirits and hospitality brands, helping them connect with fans and customers worldwide. Led by President Jamie Estes and Managing Director Tracy Green, the team’s knack for building buzz and sharing authentic tales earned them this well-earned honor. Their win shows just how vital a good story—and the people who tell it—can be in the competitive world of whiskey.
The 2025 World Whiskies Awards didn’t stop with Kentucky’s victories. Other global winners made waves too. Holyrood Distillery took home Distiller of the Year, proving their chops in creating top-notch spirits. Fettercairn Highland Single Malt Whisky earned Campaign Innovator of the Year for their fresh marketing ideas, while The Heart Cut was named Independent Bottler of the Year for their standout releases. The night also celebrated new inductees into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame: Anssi Pyysing from Finland’s Teerenpeli Brewery & Distillery and Dave Broom, a whiskey writer and spirits guru known for his deep knowledge and passion.
Held in the Waldorf Hotel’s breathtaking Adelphi Suite, the event was more than just an awards show. Guests enjoyed a full evening of festivities, starting with talks from the awards hosts and sponsors. A drinks reception let everyone mingle and sip on some of the world’s best whiskies, followed by live entertainment that kept the energy high. The night wrapped up with a three-course meal that left attendees raving. Sponsors like Glencairn, Kavalan, Amorim Top Series, Brindiamo, Hellmann, IPL Packaging, McLaren Packaging, Rankin, and Whisky Tour of the World helped make it all possible, showing their commitment to the whiskey community.
Anita Ujszaszi, the awards director, couldn’t hide her excitement about the night. She shared how amazing it was to taste incredible whiskies and hear from passionate producers and industry pros from every corner of the globe. She congratulated all the winners and thanked everyone who entered, already looking forward to next year’s showdown.
For Bardstown Bourbon Co., this win as Global Brand Innovator of the Year is a testament to their hard work and fresh ideas. With Steve Nally’s decades of know-how and a team dedicated to shaking things up, they’ve carved out a special spot in the whiskey world. Meanwhile, Estes PR’s victory as Global PR Team of the Year proves they’re masters at shining a spotlight on the brands they represent. Together, these Kentucky winners showed that innovation and storytelling go hand in hand when it comes to making a mark.
Anyone curious about the full lineup of winners can head to the World Whiskies Awards website, where the complete list is posted. From Kentucky to Scotland and beyond, the 2025 awards highlighted the best of the best in whiskey, leaving fans eager to see what’s next for these talented winners. As the night at the Waldorf Hotel proved, the whiskey world is alive and thriving—and Bardstown Bourbon Co. and Estes PR are right at the heart of it.
