The Top American Whiskeys From The 2024 London Spirits Competition

The Top American Whiskeys From The 2024 London Spirits Competition

The London Spirits Competition (LSC) has unveiled the winners of its 2024 edition, with a Cuban rum securing the esteemed title of Spirit of the Year and a distinguished distillery from Scotland claiming the coveted Single Malt Scotch of the Year accolade. Led by Sid Patel, the founder of LSC, an assembly of Britain's prominent bartenders and spirits connoisseurs convened in London's Marylebone district from March 20-22, engaging in rigorous evaluations of an extensive selection of spirits, including gins, vodkas, whiskies, and more niche offerings. Judged on the basis of quality, value, and packaging, medal recipients were required to excel across all three criteria. This year, the competition witnessed a record-breaking participation of over 2000 spirit brands hailing from more than 80 countries, spanning from the UK and the US to Croatia and India. Notably, gin emerged as the largest category with 520 submissions, followed closely by rum and whisky. Without further ado, let's explore the award-winning American whiskeys from this year's LSC.

American Straight Rye Whiskey of the Year: Uncle Nearest Uncut & Unfiltered Straight Rye Whiskey – Batch 005

Boldly proclaiming its uncut and unfiltered nature, this straight rye whiskey embodies perfection in every sip. Revered by Uncle Nearest's 4x Master Blender of the Year, Victoria Eady Butler, this 100% rye is a testament to its exceptional quality, eschewing any need for cutting or filtration. Despite Tennessee's challenges in rye cultivation, this whiskey sourced from New York showcases the epitome of rye spice and character, resting for a minimum of four years in Uncle Nearest barrels before finding its home in God’s Country. With a fusion of northern birth and southern hospitality, it's no wonder this whiskey has garnered accolades year after year. Buy it now!

Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year: Uncle Nearest Single Barrel Rye – Batch 009

A (remarkably) good whiskey is indeed worth the wait. Legend has it that in the 1950s, a young Jack Daniel learned the art of whiskey-making from his mentor, local preacher Dan Call. However, history reveals a different narrative, with an African-American slave named Nathan Green, known as Uncle Nearest, imparting his knowledge to Jack, including the charcoal filtering process synonymous with Tennessee whiskey. Inspired by this tale, Fawn Weaver ventured into the whiskey-making world to honor Uncle Nearest's legacy. Today, Uncle Nearest stands as the fastest-growing whiskey brand in the United States, earning numerous accolades, including the prestigious "World's Best" title at the 2020 World Whiskies Awards. Their latest release, a super-special Single Barrel Premium Whiskey, holds significance beyond its craftsmanship by Victoria Eady Butler, Nearest Green's great-great-granddaughter. Hand-picked from the top 1% of barrels, these whiskeys must age for at least 11 years and boast a cask strength of at least 108 proof to vie for recognition on the grand stage. Buy it now!

Small Batch Bourbon of the Year: Bluegrass Distillers/Toasted Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Introducing our Toasted Oak Bourbon, crafted from our signature Mash Bill #1 comprising 75% yellow corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Barrel-aged for a minimum of three years, this bourbon offers an enticing aroma of toast, vanilla, and baking spice. Upon tasting, expect a sweet entry with delightful layers of cinnamon, maple, and nutmeg. The finish is characterized by notes of marshmallow, oak, vanilla, culminating in a tantalizing toffee essence. Finished in lightly toasted white oak barrels for at least 21 days, our Toasted Oak Bourbon delivers a light yet peppery profile with aromatic hints of butterscotch and spice. Buy it now!

Straight Bourbon of the Year: Charles Goodnight Bourbon

Presenting Charles Goodnight Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, boasting an ABV of 57.5% (115 proof) and a robust mash bill consisting of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% barley. Aged for six years in charred American oak barrels, this Texas-born bourbon embodies the essence of the Lone Star State. Crafted from locally sourced Texas corn and water from deep underground aquifers, this bourbon offers a distinctive flavor profile marked by toasted caramel aromas, nutty undertones, and a bold peppery bite, courtesy of the generous rye content. The intense Texas heat during the aging process imparts a dark, rich, and hearty character, making Charles Goodnight Whiskey a true embodiment of Texas craftsmanship. Buy it now!

Tennessee Whiskey of the Year: 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!

Corn Whiskey of the Year: Black Whiskey Single Barrel

Introducing the Single Barrel Black Whiskey, recipient of top honors at the 2022 New York World Spirits Competition and featured in Forbes Magazine. Don Michael's Single Barrel emerged as the ultimate standout, earning the prestigious title of 'Best In Show' across all spirits categories, along with Best of Class and a Double Gold medal. Hand-selected by master sommelier Daiana Paola Milon Mayer, each barrel offers a unique expression of our Andean Black Corn Whiskey. The nose reveals waxy and leather notes, intertwined with tropical fruit aromas. On the palate, a delightful blend of spice and sweetness unfolds, accompanied by hints of tropical fruits and herbal undertones. The finish is long, smooth, and slightly herbal, leaving impressions of spicy cinnamon, clove, and earthy nuances. This true limited edition whiskey captures the essence of Peru's rich heritage, presented in a 750ml bottle with 56% ABV. Buy it now!