2024 Award Winning Whiskeys

2024 Award Winning Whiskeys

Award-winning whiskeys are the epitome of craftsmanship and expertise in the world of spirits. These exceptional libations have been meticulously crafted by master distillers, using the finest ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each sip tells a story of dedication, innovation, and tradition, capturing the essence of their distillery's heritage and the unique flavors of their terroir. Whether it's the smoky depth of a peated Scotch, the rich complexity of a bourbon, or the smooth elegance of an Irish whiskey, award-winning expressions stand as shining examples of excellence in the art of distillation, celebrated by connoisseurs and critics alike.

The Winning Whiskeys of the 2024 L.A. Spirits Awards

In the vast landscape of spirits available today, a prestigious medal can significantly influence a consumer's decision. It serves as a beacon amidst the multitude of options, signaling quality and excellence. However, the credibility of the awards and the expertise of the judges behind them are paramount. L.A. Spirits Awards, renowned for its discerning panel of experts, holds particular weight in the industry. Winning a medal from L.A. Spirits Awards not only boosts a brand's reputation but also provides invaluable marketing validation. For smaller distillers, the competition offers a vital platform to gain recognition and valuable feedback through its Insights program. Beyond the medal, L.A. Spirits Awards serves as a gateway to industry resources and opportunities, empowering winners to thrive in the competitive market.

Best Bourbon: Uncle Nearest Single Barrel Whiskey, Batch 101

The Uncle Nearest distillery, a Black and women-owned business, honors the legacy of Nathan "Nearest" Green, a former slave who played a significant role in the development of Tennessee whiskey. Green's expertise in distillation was passed down through generations, including to a young Jack Daniel. Today, Uncle Nearest's master blender, Victoria Eady Butler, Green's great-great-granddaughter, continues the family tradition. This expression, bottled at 59.2 percent ABV, offers a premium whiskey experience with smoothness and rich flavor, reflecting the remarkable legacy of its namesake. Buy it now!

Best Rye and Best Whiskey: 15 STARS First West Straight Rye Whiskey, Batch 2-SSDD

Founded by Rick and Ricky Johnson, 15 STARS pays homage to Kentucky's heritage with its name, symbolizing the state's representation on the second U.S. flag. Their First West Rye whiskey blends straight rye whiskeys from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques. This rye offers a complex profile, with aromas of toasted oak, spice, and dried fruit. On the palate, bold herbal and nutty flavors emerge, leading to a long finish with citrus and floral notes. Recognized with awards such as Best Rye Whiskey and Best Whiskey in Show at the L.A. Spirits Awards, it's a testament to its exceptional quality. Buy it now!

Best Single Malt Whisky: Kanosuke Single Malt

Named after Kanosuke Komasa, the grandfather of owner/CEO Yoshi Komasa and pioneer of Japan's first cask-aged shochu, Kanosuke Distillery produces exceptional Japanese single malt whisky. Aged in ex-shochu American oak casks, this whisky offers a unique Eastern perfume not typically found in other whisky regions. Bold, fresh, and beautifully balanced, it boasts a smooth texture and complex flavor profile. Its recognition as the Best Single Malt Whisky at the L.A. Spirits Awards underscores its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Buy it now!

Best Flavored Whiskey: Dough Ball Cookie Dough Whiskey

Indeed, flavored whiskey has its enthusiasts, and the judges at the L.A. Spirits Awards recognize its appeal. Dough Ball Cookie Dough whiskey lives up to its name, offering a light nose reminiscent of freshly baked cookies with subtle notes of chocolate, butter, and caramel on the palate. While it may not suit every connoisseur's taste, it provides a fun and indulgent experience for those who enjoy playful spirits. Buy it now!

The Best Whiskeys From The 2024 World Whiskies Awards

The World Drinks Awards, presented by TheDrinksReport.com, honor excellence in internationally recognized styles of drinks. As the premier online resource for drinks professionals, TheDrinksReport.com selects, rewards, and promotes the finest drinks globally to both consumers and trade professionals worldwide.

Best Kentucky Finished Bourbon: 15 Stars Sherry Cask Finish

The 15 STARS Sherry Cask Finish is a masterful blend of 13 and 10-year-old bourbons hailing from Kentucky and Indiana. These bourbons, after aging, undergo a unique finish in sherry casks, resulting in a bourbon of remarkable richness. The sherry casks contribute robust dark fruit nuances, seamlessly intertwined with the time-honored oak characteristics from the aged bourbons. The tasting experience unveils an intricately layered aroma featuring notes of raisin, dried fig, clove, toffee, creme brulee, and leather. On the palate, the indulgent fusion of fruit cake, plum, bananas foster, sherry, charred oak, and cacao beans creates a sensory delight. The finish is characterized by a burst of dark fruit and oak, followed by enduring notes of dried cherry, raisin, and seasoned oak. With an impressive alcohol by volume (ABV) of 57.5%, the 15 STARS Sherry Cask Finish stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and flavor. Buy now for $179.00.

Best Non-Kentucky Finished Bourbon: Breckenridge Distillery Port Cask Finish Whiskey

Indulge in the regal elegance of this Bourbon Whiskey, which receives a luxurious finish in 59-gallon Tawny Port casks. The aging process imbues the whiskey with a distinctive smoothness and flavor profile, characterized by notes of sultana raisin and maple syrup from start to finish. At 45 proof (ABV 90%), it offers a refined drinking experience fit for royalty. Buy it now!

Best American Style Whiskey: F.E.W. American Straight Whiskey

Capturing the essence of the Republic, FEW's American Whiskey harmoniously combines Bourbon, Rye, and malt whiskey infused with cherrywood smoke. The initial sip offers an approachable experience, with notes of graham cracker and honey at the forefront, complemented by a savory rye spice beneath. A delightful interlude of tart cherry emerges in the middle, while a subtle wisp of smoke contributes to the overall texture. The journey concludes with a nuanced finish featuring hints of white pepper and honey. This versatile whiskey is ideal for sipping neat, showcasing its intricate layers, or can be enjoyed in a refreshing American Whiskey Mule. Notably recognized, it was voted Best American Blended Whiskey at the 2020 World Whiskies Awards. Buy now for $49.99.

Best Kentucky Bourbon: 1792 12 Years Old

Crafted with precision and tradition, 1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey embodies the essence of classic American distilling. A meticulous blend of corn, rye, and malted barley yields a rich tapestry of flavors, from buttered bread and biscuits to roasted nuts, thanks to its mash bill. Maturing in new, American oak casks within Warehouse Z on Bardstown's estate imparts depth and complexity, benefiting from the region's intense heat and humidity. Master Distiller Ken Pierce's hands-on approach ensures each barrel reaches its peak, with quality water from the Tom Moore spring adding a subtle depth reminiscent of bygone eras. Bottled at 96.6 proof, it's a testament to time-honored craftsmanship and dedication to excellence. Buy it now!

Best Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon: Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon

This Single Barrel from Four Roses presents a slightly proofed variation of their renowned OBSV recipe. The OBSV recipe is characterized by a delicate fruit yeast and a high-rye mash bill. Specifically chosen from the north side of Warehouse P—a cherished location for Four Roses' single barrel enthusiasts—this selection highlights the significant impact that barrel position and warehouse conditions can have on the whiskey's flavor profile. Buy it now for $45.99!

Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon: Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon

The Four Roses perfects the marrying art of mingling multiple Bourbon recipes, our Master Distiller has expertly selected four original and limited Bourbons at the pinnacle of maturation. The result is a perfectly balanced small batch Bourbon that unveils a mellow symphony of rich, spicy flavors complemented by sweet, fruity aromas and nuanced notes of sweet oak and caramel. The finish is soft, smooth, and pleasantly long-lasting. Best enjoyed straight up, on the rocks, or with a splash, this exceptional Bourbon boasts a proof of 90 and an alcohol/volume of 45%. Buy it now for $39.99.

Best Non-Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon: Laws Whiskey House Four Grain Bourbon Cask Strength

Dedicated to the discerning palate of our fellow whiskey enthusiasts, we meticulously curate and blend a variety of Four Grain Bourbon barrels with a specific focus on showcasing their remarkable character and intensified flavors. The result is a Cask Strength bottling that allows the distinct qualities of the bourbon to shine through at a higher proof. The mashbill, comprising 60% corn, 20% heirloom wheat, 10% heirloom barley, and 10% heirloom rye, contributes to the unique and well-balanced composition of this exceptional whiskey, ensuring a bold and flavorful experience for the most astute whiskey connoisseurs. Buy now for $92.99.

Best Tennessee Whiskey: Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey

Introduced to Uncle Nearest five years ago, this Tennessee whiskey blend continues to be the cornerstone of the line. The expression features a subtly blended Tennessee whiskey, legally classified as bourbon, aged for at least five years. Prior to bottling, a touch of water is added to create the final product. Buy it now for $57.99!