7 Best American Whiskeys & Bourbons According To The Denver International Spirits Competition

7 Best American Whiskeys & Bourbons According To The Denver International Spirits Competition

The Denver International Spirits Competition (DISC), touted as "the largest spirits competition in The Rockies," is an annual double-blind tasting event showcasing a wide array of spirits, from whiskey and bourbon to tequila and vodka. Hosted by the Wine Country Network, the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition took place in Broomfield, CO, spanning from March 2nd to March 10th, 2024. Each spirit vies for silver, gold, or double gold medals, with the added honor of Best In Show recognition for the top three placements. While listing every gold medal winner in the American whiskey and bourbon categories would be extensive, the focus here is on the esteemed Double Gold and Best In Show winners. Discover the history behind these award-winning spirits, explore their tasting notes, and learn where to procure these exceptional bottles.

William Larue Weller Bourbon

Awarded the prestigious title of Best of Show – 1st Place, William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a timeless expression crafted at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery. Notably, this bourbon follows a wheated recipe, a hallmark innovation credited to its namesake, William Larue Weller, who pioneered a mash bill substituting rye with wheat. An annual release from the distillery, the 2023 edition of William Larue Weller is aged for 12 years and 6 months, culminating in a rich and complex profile. With tasting notes of dark brown sugar, vanilla bean, stewed cherry, and brown sugar crumble, this bourbon stands as a true exemplar of quality and craftsmanship. Bottled at a robust 133.6 proof, it promises a remarkable sipping experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Buy it now!

Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

Earning the esteemed title of Best of Show – 3rd Place, Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey pays homage to the legendary figure in bourbon history, George T. Stagg. Renowned for his pivotal role at the O.F.C. Distillery (now Buffalo Trace), Stagg steered the distillery towards commercial success during a transformative era in bourbon production. This expression, distinct from its George T. Stagg Antique Collection counterpart, boasts a higher proof/ABV, accentuating its robust rye spice notes. Best enjoyed with a drop of water to fully appreciate its complexity, Stagg Bourbon is released in seasonal batches four times a year, offering enthusiasts a slightly more accessible alternative to the Antique Collection counterpart. With tasting notes of chocolate, brown sugar, rye spice, cherries, cloves, and smoke, Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a testament to the rich heritage and enduring quality of Buffalo Trace Distillery's craftsmanship. Buy it now!

Dunamis Interstellar Bourbon

Awarded the prestigious Double Gold medal, Dunamis Interstellar Bourbon epitomizes excellence and sophistication. Crafted for those who appreciate the boundless possibilities of power, Dunamis Interstellar Bourbon offers a transcendent experience akin to traveling among the stars. This exceptional bourbon, made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, undergoes a meticulous aging process of five years in American oak barrels. Notably, it is then subjected to the innovative "Dunamis micron filtration process" and "16 chambers of charcoal filtration," resulting in an exceptionally smooth and approachable whiskey. Founded by Sir Victor Young in Florida, Dunamis embodies a vision of creating premium spirits for extraordinary individuals. The bourbon's Double Gold medal at the Denver International Spirits Competition underscores its unparalleled quality and sets it on a trajectory for success in the spirits industry. Buy it now!

Stranahan’s Blue Peak

Blue Peak, the sole American single malt on the list, presents a delightful blend of toasty butterscotch and molasses flavors. Remarkably priced at around $41 per bottle, it offers a subtle taste profile attributed to the use of lightly charred oak during maturation. With an easy-drinking 86-proof, Blue Peak provides a smooth and enjoyable sipping experience.  Buy it now!

Rocker Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Port Wine Barrels

Awarded the esteemed Double Gold medal, this bourbon from Rocker Spirits in Littleton, CO, stands as a testament to excellence and craftsmanship. Distilled from a mash bill of 70% corn and 30% wheat, this bourbon undergoes a minimum three-year aging process in American Oak barrels with varying levels of char, followed by a finishing touch in port wine barrels. While official tasting notes are not available, this bourbon undoubtedly offers a unique and delightful sensory experience. Beyond its exceptional taste, what truly sets this bourbon apart is its novel bottle design, inspired by a rusty 1930s oil can discovered by co-founder Duston Evans in a junkyard. This vintage find served as the inspiration for the distinctive Rocker Spirits bottle, which rocks forward to dispense the spirit and then rocks backward to stand upright again, mimicking the motion of the oil can. Alongside its award-winning bourbons, Rocker Spirits also produces Rocker Rum and Rocker Vodka, further solidifying its presence and reputation in its home state. With its combination of innovative packaging and outstanding spirits, Rocker Spirits has undoubtedly established itself as a brand to watch in the spirits industry. Buy it now!

Heaven’s Door Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Awarded the prestigious Double Gold medal, Heaven’s Door Ascension Bourbon has left an indelible mark on the bourbon and whiskey landscape. This inaugural release from Heaven’s Door is a meticulously crafted blend of two Kentucky Straight Bourbons, each aged for a minimum of five years. These bourbons are carefully blended in small batches and bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV). Founded by music icon Bob Dylan and Marc Bushala, Heaven’s Door has quickly garnered attention for its commitment to quality and innovation. In February 2024, the brand unveiled The Exploration Series, which delves into the influence of various cask finishes. The debut release of this series features a 5-year-old Tennessee whiskey finished in Calvados casks. Despite its relatively young establishment in 2018, Heaven’s Door is poised for further success, with plans to officially open its distillery in Pleasureville in Spring 2024. With tasting notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, char, toasted grains, cinnamon, and nutmeg, Heaven’s Door Ascension Bourbon exemplifies excellence and sophistication, solidifying its position as a noteworthy player in the whiskey industry. Buy it now!

Whiskey Thief Distilling, Single Barrel 53.25% ABV

This single-barrel selection offers a truly distinctive Kentucky experience. Located within a barrel house where visitors can sample a variety of whiskey barrels, patrons have the opportunity to purchase either an entire barrel or individual bottles from selected barrels. Situated on a sprawling 172-acre working farm, the location adds an extra layer of charm to the overall experience, making it a memorable journey for whiskey enthusiasts.