Bourbons That Took Home the Gold

Bourbons That Took Home the Gold

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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%.

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.

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.

The Best Whiskies According To The Whisky Explorer Awards 

The Whisky Explorer Awards represents Canada's newest addition to the international spirit competition scene. Spearheaded by Canadian whisky advocate Mike Brisebois, this competition focuses exclusively on whiskies available at Canadian retail outlets. Embracing a wide range of categories, from Scotch whisky to Canadian whisky, Irish whiskey, American whiskey, Asian whisky, and world whisky, the awards celebrate excellence and diversity in the global whisky landscape.

Best Scotch Whisky: The GlenAllachie 10 YO Cask Strength, Batch 8, 58.6% ABV

The GlenAllachie 10 Year Old Cask Strength achieved top honors as the Best Whisky in Canada at the Whisky Explorer Awards. Additionally, it secured accolades for Best Cask Strength Whisky in Canada, Best Single Malt Whisky in Canada, and Best Scottish Whisky in Canada, further affirming its exceptional quality and appeal among whisky enthusiasts.

Best Blended Whisky MacNair's Lum Reek Blended Malt 10 YO, Scotch Whisky, 55.8% ABV

The MacNair's Lum Reek Blended Malt 10 YO also won Best Whisky 10 Years and Under in Canada.The GlenAllachie Distillery produces MacNair's Lum Reek Blended Malt 10 YO Whisky under the deft hand of Master Distiller Billy Walker. This expression is a blended malt Scotch whisky rather than a blended Scotch whisky. That means it is a blend of different single malts and does not include any grain alcohol.

Best 100% Rye Whisky: Ezra Brooks 7-Year Rye

Ezra Brooks is crafted with the utmost attention to quality, using only the finest ingredients. It undergoes traditional aging methods, allowing it to develop rich flavors and complexity over time. Through charcoal filtration, it achieves a remarkably smooth and mellow flavor profile, culminating in a satisfyingly smooth finish.

Best Whisky 11-15 Years: Benromach 15 Year Old

Rest assured, whether our Benromach arrives in old or new packaging, the exceptional liquid inside remains unchanged. At our family-owned distillery, we adhere to traditional methods, relying on the expertise of our experienced distillers to craft a Speyside whisky imbued with the subtle smoky character distinctive to Benromach. Matured exclusively in the finest oak casks, our 15 Year Old single malt whisky reveals a palate of cracked pepper, charred oak, succulent apples, dark chocolate, and forest fruits, complemented by rich sherry undertones and a subtle hint of smoke.

Best Whisky 15 Years Old Or Over: Glenlivet 18 Year Old

This aged scotch delivers precisely what one would anticipate from a whisky of its caliber. Its creamy, nutty, toffee-smooth texture intertwines with dark floral undertones, culminating in a rich sherry finish that is delicately accented by a subtle hint of peat smoke. Each sip evokes a sense of romance akin to a clandestine dance with a long-lost flame.

Best Finished Whiskey: Rabbit Hole Dareringer Straight Bourbon Finished in PX Sherry Casks

In a tale as old as time itself, a love story unfolds between a man who adores Scotch and a woman who favors Bourbon, leading to the creation of Rabbit Hole, a Louisville-based distillery. Founded by Kaveh Zamanian and Heather, Rabbit Hole embodies their shared passion, beauty, and elegance, with a simple yet ambitious mission: to add an extra layer of sophistication to the Bourbon renaissance. Building on their initial success with a mind-blowing Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Rabbit Hole decided to elevate their craft even further by aging it in American oak barrels with an intense alligator char, followed by finishing it in ex-PX Sherry casks. The result? A decadent, snazzy, and downright unbelievable whiskey experience that invites you to take a dive into the rabbit hole.

Best Whisky No Aged Statement in Canada – Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt Whisky Release No. 38

Founded in 2009 in Canada's rugged Yukon territory, Two Brewers is a distillery known for its innovative approach to crafting single malt whisky. Their expression boasts a robust oak spice foundation, complemented by enticing aromas of peat smoke, green walnuts, and candied ginger. On the palate, tropical fruit flavors mingle with rich tobacco smoke, creating a complex and satisfying whisky experience.

Best Irish Whiskey in Canada – Dunville's 1808 Irish Whiskey

Dunville's 1808 is a contemporary blended Irish whiskey that brings together grain, malt, and pot still components to create a bold and flavorful profile. The nose reveals inviting aromas of creamy vanilla, crisp apples, pears, lemon curd, and malt, accompanied by hints of buttery cereals and freshly-baked biscuits. On the palate, notes of ripe oranges, lemon meringue pie, charred oak, and white pepper unfold, with subtle wisps of smoke lingering in the finish. This whiskey offers a delightful combination of fruity sweetness, spicy complexity, and elegant oak influence.

Best Canadian Whisky in Canada – Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt Whisky Release No. 38

Founded in 2009 in Canada's rugged Yukon territory, Two Brewers is a distillery known for its innovative approach to crafting single malt whisky. Their expression boasts a robust oak spice foundation, complemented by enticing aromas of peat smoke, green walnuts, and candied ginger. On the palate, tropical fruit flavors mingle with rich tobacco smoke, creating a complex and satisfying whisky experience.

Best World Whisky in Canada – Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky

Indri Single Malt whiskey is crafted from Classic Six Row Indian Barley, a heritage grain cultivated in Rajasthan, India, for centuries. The barley is meticulously harvested and hand-selected for malting, ensuring the highest quality. This attention to detail has earned Indri Single Malt the distinction of being ranked as the #17 whiskey of the year by Whiskey Advocate.

The Best Single Barrel Bourbon According To The International Spirits Challenge 2023

The International Spirits Challenge (ISC) is set to return in July 2024 after a successful run in 2023, where over twenty days of blind tastings were conducted by 75 industry experts, evaluating thousands of beverages across various categories. Among these was the single-barrel bourbon category, which has surged in popularity since its inception in the 1980s with the introduction of Blanton’s Bourbon by Elmer T. Lee in 1984. Since then, distilleries nationwide have embraced the concept of bottling from a single barrel, each offering a unique profile influenced by factors such as warehouse location and aging conditions. With the 2023 ISC showcasing a diverse range of single-barrel bourbons, the judges faced the challenge of selecting the standout expressions. Among them were the Gold and Double Gold medal-winning single barrel bourbons, highlighting exceptional craftsmanship and flavor profiles. As we anticipate the 2024 results, stay tuned to The Whiskey Wash for the latest updates on the world of spirits.

Henry McKenna Bottled-in-Bond Single Barrel Bourbon

While some might argue that shining a light on this bottle contradicts our quest for hidden gems, McKenna has quietly remained under the radar for far too long. Offering a bottled-in-bond single barrel is commendable on its own, but Heaven Hill has gone above and beyond by maintaining a 10-year age statement at an incredibly affordable price point. Sharing the same mash bill as Elijah Craig and Evan Williams, McKenna boasts quality that surpasses its recognition. With its value and potential, it's only a matter of time before this hidden treasure gains the attention it deserves, so it's wise to stock up while you can.

1792 Single Barrel

Crafted at the historic Barton 1792 Distillery nestled in Kentucky, this single-barrel bourbon pays homage to the state's rich heritage, bearing the name of the year Kentucky gained statehood. Renowned as the oldest operational distillery in Bardstown, Barton 1792 embodies a profound dedication to its Kentucky roots. Each barrel selected for the 1792 Single Barrel undergoes meticulous taste evaluations, with only the most extraordinary barrels earning the privilege of bottling. Since its debut in 2016, this expression has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including the recent Gold recognition at the International Spirits Challenge. Among Barton 1792's acclaimed offerings are the 12 Year Old, crowned World's Best Bourbon at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards, and the Small Batch, honored as Best Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey at the 2023 International Whisky Competition.

Benchmark Single Barrel

Stepping into the realm of Buffalo Trace Distillery, we encounter our next award-winning whiskey, the Benchmark Single Barrel. As one of America's premier whiskey producers, Buffalo Trace's dominance is unmistakable, with each remaining selection on this list hailing from their esteemed distillery. Bottled at 95 proof, the Benchmark Single Barrel epitomizes excellence, with only the finest barrels earning the privilege of inclusion in this range. With a refreshed lineup introduced in 2020, Benchmark has continued to ascend, offering exceptional quality and value at less than $20 per bottle.

E. H. Taylor, Single Barrel, 50% ABV 

Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey pays homage to the pioneering legacy of Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., a revered figure in the bourbon industry. Known as one of the founding fathers of bourbon, Taylor's contributions include advocating for the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 and implementing innovative aging techniques such as climate-controlled warehouses, including Warehouse C. Hand-picked and bottled at 100 proof in accordance with the Bottled-in-Bond Act, each barrel of this bourbon is a testament to Taylor's enduring influence and commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Named in honor of the legendary Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee, this exceptional whiskey is meticulously hand-selected and bottled to his exacting standards. Crafted from Buffalo Trace's mashbill #2, featuring a higher rye content, it boasts a rich and balanced flavor profile with a slightly spicier character. Highly coveted by aficionados for its superb quality and bold taste, it stands as a testament to Lee's enduring legacy in the world of bourbon.

W.L. Weller Single Barrel Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

Finally, we come to the W.L. Weller Single Barrel Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, the crown jewel of the Weller lineup. Named in honor of William Larue Weller, a trailblazer in the world of wheated bourbon, this expression pays homage to his pioneering spirit by replacing rye with wheat in the mash bill, resulting in a lusciously smooth texture. Often overshadowed by its Antique or Full Proof counterparts, this single barrel bourbon commands a higher price tag, but its consistent acclaim among whiskey connoisseurs, including recognition at the 2023 ISC, suggests that it may indeed be worth the investment for those seeking an unparalleled drinking experience.

The World’s Best Whiskeys - 2023 Competition Edition

With an abundance of options available, determining the best bottles of whiskey can be a daunting task for any enthusiast. Fortunately, leading international spirits competitions serve as reliable guides in navigating the vast landscape of whiskey offerings. Through rigorous blind-tasting evaluations conducted by industry experts, these competitions identify standout bottles that excel in flavor, craftsmanship, and overall quality. Here is a selection of five exceptional whiskeys crowned as the best in the world in 2023. These esteemed bottles represent the pinnacle of whiskey craftsmanship and would make an esteemed addition to any connoisseur's collection.

15 Stars First West Fine Aged Rye Whiskey

When 15 Stars debuted in 2022, its founders set out with a dual mission: to create the world's finest aged whiskey and pay homage to Kentucky, the birthplace of bourbon, being the fifteenth state. They succeeded admirably on both fronts. Their First West Fine Aged Rye garnered the prestigious title of World's Best Whiskey at the New York World Spirits Competition. A skillful blend of straight rye whiskeys aged six to eight years, it delivers the expected spiciness of rye, harmoniously balanced with nuanced hints of fruit and tobacco.

Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whiskey

This exquisite whiskey marks a captivating evolution in the world of whiskey, heralding the rise of American single malt expressions. Traditionally associated with Scotland, the allure of the intricate yet straightforward flavor profiles inherent in this style has captivated American distillers. Awarded Whisky of the Year at the London Spirits Competition, Courage & Conviction American Single Malt is crafted from 100% malted barley sourced from North America, undergoing a double cask maturation process. Initially aged for a minimum of five years in first-fill bourbon casks, it is then transferred to European red wine cuvée casks for finishing. The resulting elixir boasts enticing hints of bright berries complemented by subtle notes of toffee, epitomizing the artistry of American single malt whiskey.

Glenfairn Floral Highland Single Malt Whisky

Look no further if you seek a whisky that has garnered more accolades on the awards circuit this year than any other. Glenfarin Highland Single Malt has made a resounding impact, clinching a Gold Outstanding, a Whiskey Trophy, and an exceptional score of 99 points at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. Produced by the esteemed creators behind single malt stalwarts Jura and Dalmore, this whisky offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank, retailing at a modest $30. Primarily intended for U.K. supermarket shelves, it has captured the hearts of judges and enthusiasts alike. Described as "wonderfully fragrant" on the nose with enticing tropical mango notes, it boasts a palate of creamy toffee that is both sweet and indulgent, underscored by remarkable balance. The finish leaves a lasting impression with its rich floral character that lingers delicately on the palate. This is mostly sold out at this point but you can still find the Speyside bottling in supermarkets like Tesco.

Heaven Hill Bottled-In Bond

Heaven Hill, a pioneer in the post-Prohibition era, swiftly established itself as a cornerstone of American bourbon culture. Today, boasting the second-largest inventory of aging bourbon worldwide, with approximately 1,600,000 barrels maturing in rickhouses across Kentucky, they continue to shape the industry. Their Bottled-In-Bond expression exemplifies the mastery of their distillers. Honored as the World Whiskey of the Year at the Bartender Spirit Awards, this iconic bottling offers a harmonious interplay of flavors. A subtle spiciness from the rye component intertwines seamlessly with notes of vanilla, honey, and caramel sweetness. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, it's a testament to Heaven Hill's enduring legacy and craftsmanship.

Tomatin Highland Single Malt 36 Year Old

If you are a collector looking for rare bottles to step up a collection, or if you love fantastic whisky, then Tomatin Highland Single Malt 36 year Old is what you want. A limited-release whisky, only 1,200 are released globally each year; a bottle can easily run thousands of dollars on the resale market, so be prepared if shopping for one. Crafted in the heart of the Scottish countryside, the Tomatin distillers are renowned for producing exceptionally complex scotches. By being named Best in Show Whisky at the venerable San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the second time Tomatin has won the award in the last decade, their whisky has bested over 1,800 other entrants. A remarkably smooth sipper, its complex flavors make it indeed a memorable dram.