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

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.

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. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!