The Ultimate Bourbon Library: Top Picks From The 2023 San Francisco & New York Spirits Competitions

The Ultimate Bourbon Library: Top Picks From The 2023 San Francisco & New York Spirits Competitions

In the fiercely competitive world of bourbon, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and the New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC) stand as premier showcases of excellence. In 2023, these esteemed events witnessed a record-breaking influx of entries in the bourbon category, with over 500 submissions. Reflecting the bourgeoning landscape of craft distilleries, the bourbons showcased a remarkable array of quality and diversity, showcasing innovative approaches to grain selection, maturation environments, and cask finishes. With the number of bourbon producers soaring from a handful in 2009 to approximately 1,000 today, bourbon enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, offering a wealth of superb expressions to elevate any home bar.

W. L. Weller Full Proof, 57% ABV

William Larue Weller, a veteran of the Mexican-American war, returned to Kentucky after his service to join his family's distillery business. In 1849, he introduced the first bourbon to use wheat as its secondary grain instead of rye, creating a softer and sweeter flavor profile. This innovation, still reflected in brands like Pappy Van Winkle and Larceny Bourbon, earned him immense popularity in antebellum America. Today, his legacy lives on through the William Larue Weller Bourbon, bottled at the original 114 proof without chill filtration. This preserves the whiskey's natural oils and flavors, resulting in a rich mouthfeel with robust notes of vanilla and oak. A tribute to Weller's pioneering spirit, this bourbon satisfies enthusiasts of non-chill filtered whiskey. Buy it now!

Stagg Jr, Stagg Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 66.1% ABV

This robust bourbon whiskey, aged for nearly a decade, captures all the rich and complex flavors characteristic of barrel strength. Uncut and unfiltered, it embodies the bold character reminiscent of the legendary Mr. George T. Stagg. Buy it now!

Brother’s Bond, Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 57.55% ABV

Brother's Bond Original Cask Strength Bourbon is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the distillers. Hand-selected from 70 exceptional barrels, this expression represents the bourbon in its purest form—undiluted, unfiltered, and at 115.6 proof. Complex aromas of ripe banana, walnut, leather, and vanilla greet the senses, along with subtle hints of smoke. On the palate, bold flavors of dried fruits, caramel, and honey unfold, complemented by a luxurious texture and lingering rye spices on the finish. With remarkable smoothness and balance, this limited release is a must-have for bourbon enthusiasts, inviting them to savor each sip and cherish every moment while strengthening bonds. Buy it now!

Old Forester, King Ranch Edition, 52.4% ABV

The Old Forester King Ranch Edition Bourbon Whiskey is a special collaborative release with King Ranch, offering a 105-proof Kentucky Straight small batch experience. Crafted with a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley, this unique bourbon undergoes filtration through King Ranch Mesquite Charcoal, adding a distinct smoky oakiness to its classic Kentucky whiskey profile. This one-off release pays homage to American ranching heritage while delivering a bold and flavorful drinking experience. Buy it now!

William Heavenhill, 9th Edition Bourbon, 54.5% ABV

The nose of this whiskey is rich and inviting, with deep aromas of caramel, cigar box, and leather blending harmoniously with the sweetness of rich red fruit. Additional layers of complexity emerge, with hints of toasted grains, furniture polish, and hedgerow berries adding depth and intrigue. The finish is savory and smoky, leaving a lingering impression that invites further exploration of its nuanced flavors. Buy it now!

George T Stagg, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 69.35% ABV

The 2023 release of George T. Stagg Straight Bourbon Whiskey is indeed highly anticipated, joining the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Recognized as the Best American Whiskey in the 2023 International Whisky Competition, this uncut, unfiltered Kentucky bourbon offers a bold and daring profile. Aged for over 15 years in virgin white oak barrels with a #4/55 second char, it boasts a robust 135-proof (67.5% ABV). Distilled in the Spring of 2008 and selected from select barrels, it features a mash bill of undisclosed proportions of Kentucky corn, Minnesota rye, and North Dakota malted barley. With enticing aromas of toasted cinnamon and sweet cherry cola, and a palate characterized by leather, cola candies, vanilla, and melted chocolate, George T. Stagg 2023 Straight Bourbon is a supremely collectible whiskey of exceptional quality. Buy it now!

Heaven’s Door Decade Series Vol. 1 10-Year Bourbon

Unveiling the limited edition Heaven’s Door Decade Series, a ten-year-old bourbon, inaugurating an audacious collection of sublime whiskeys. A testament to time, age, and maturation, each drop narrates a captivating story that you are warmly invited to partake in. A collaboration with legendary musician and artist Bob Dylan, Heaven’s Door is an award-winning anthology of artisanal American whiskeys. Each bottle is an artistic marvel, adorned with Dylan’s unique iron gate designs from his Black Buffalo Ironworks studio. Best savored at room temperature, on the rocks, neat, or with a hint of distilled water. A symphony of refined taste awaits. Buy it now!

Pursuit United Straight Bourbon

Pursuit United Straight Bourbon embodies the harmonious amalgamation of barrels from three distinct states. The marriage of rye and wheated bourbons gives birth to a remarkably unique whiskey. This blend unveils an engaging dance between fruity and spicy notes. Savor this captivating pursuit, a delight designed for the refined palate of a true connoisseur. Buy it now!

Sweet Grass Bourbon

Hailing from historic Charleston, South Carolina, Sweet Grass Bourbon exemplifies a superb, small-batch bourbon of the highest caliber. Its notable mash bill, featuring 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley, imbues this bourbon with unrivaled smoothness. With its well-rounded finish, this sublime spirit exudes outstanding richness, profound depth, and a character that enchants the discerning palate—a unique indulgence in the world of fine whiskey. Buy it now!

J. Rieger & Co. Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond

J. Rieger & Co., Kansas City’s pioneer distillery, take immense pride in presenting their latest bottled-in bond bourbon—a distinguished double gold laureate at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Crafted by one distiller, in a single season at the historic Electric Park District, this bourbon reflects the unique rhythm of its surroundings—seasonal changes, aging barrels, and even the resonant vibrations of trains gracing its threshold. This bourbon, a six-year aged symphony of corn, rye, and malted barley, is the second offering of Rieger’s Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond since their celebrated resurgence in 2014. Buy it now!

The Kentucky Owl Wiseman Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Kentucky Owl unveils The Wiseman, an exquisite Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey meticulously crafted from a blend of four handpicked bourbons. Its aromatic bouquet delights with luscious notes of caramel, allspice, and citrus, paving the way for a luxurious palate experience. With the fading of allspice, a lingering finish emerges, adorned with the sweetness of caramel and delicate oak undertones. Tailored for the discerning palate, The Wiseman exemplifies Kentucky Owl's mastery in the art of whiskey making. Buy it now!

1845 Distilling Preemption, Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV

Our signature bourbon is a rye-based blend, crafted with Yellow Corn, Elbon Rye, and Malted Barley, all sourced from Texas. Aged for a minimum of three years, this bourbon boasts a 100% Texas grain bill, ensuring a unique and authentic flavor profile. On the nose, expect notes of cherry cola, caramel, vanilla, oak, and a subtle hint of floral sweetness. The palate reveals flavors of black tea, cinnamon, citrus, floral undertones, and a touch of tannins, creating a complex and well-balanced tasting experience. Bottled at 100 proof, our signature bourbon offers exceptional quality and value for discerning whiskey enthusiasts. Buy it now!

15 Stars Sherry Cask Finish Bourbon, 57.5% ABV

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. In a notable achievement, the bourbon was awarded the title of Best Overall Bourbon at the New York World Spirits Competition in September 2023. 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. Buy now for $179.00.

Doc Swinson’s Exploratory Cask French Toasted Bourbon, 55.4% ABV

Exploring the intricate world of barrel aging, distillers leverage the transformative power of oak to impart nuanced flavors and textures to their spirits. By introducing their creations to new or previously used oak barrels sourced from diverse origins, distillers achieve a delicate equilibrium of minerality alongside robust expressions of sweetness and spice. This artful interplay between wood and spirit yields unique tasting profiles, inviting enthusiasts to savor novel and enticing flavors that transcend tradition. Buy it now!

Fox & Oden, Double Oaked Straight Bourbon, 49.5% ABV

Fox & Oden Double Oaked Bourbon exemplifies the artistry of bourbon craftsmanship. Initially aged in premium, high-rye mash bill bourbon barrels, this whiskey gains complexity over years in charred oak. Yet, its allure deepens with a second maturation in newly charred oak barrels. Here, vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak mingle with spicy, peppery undertones, enriching its flavor profile. At 49.5% Alc./Vol. (99 Proof), its nose evokes cocoa, caramel, and leather, inviting enthusiasts to savor its layered nuances. Buy it now!

Art of the Spirits, Ruby Port Finish- Cask Strength Final Run Straight Bourbon, 56% ABV

Art of the Spirits Cask Strength "Final Run" Straight Whiskey offers a unique journey through its carefully curated maturation process. Aged for 7 years in a 53-gallon new American oak barrel, it then undergoes a finishing period in a 4Square Rum cask, imparting additional depth and complexity. This limited-edition release celebrates the work of renowned artist David Uhl, whose oil painting inspired by the Great Depression-era outlaws Bonnie and Clyde adorns the label. With a mashbill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 5% malted barley, this whiskey strikes a harmonious balance between richness and subtlety, resulting in an extraordinary cask strength expression. Buy it now!

Bardstown Bourbon Company Collaborative Series - Chateau de Laubade II

The sequel to the esteemed Chateau de Laubade arrives. Its artful blend of bourbon boasts Kentucky’s daring oak and Tennessee’s subtle citrus, dancing elegantly with Armagnac’s flamboyant fire. This unique composition awakens an intoxicating bouquet of baked pear, seasoned with nutmeg, cinnamon, and sage, intertwined with toffee, brown sugar, and almond whispers. Upon tasting, the palate is seduced by vanilla bean, dignified oak, and golden raisin, converging into an opulent finale of elevated flavors. A rendezvous for the discerning palate. Buy it now!

Everwild Seekers Toasted Oak Cask

We've elevated our already exceptional four-year aged high-rye bourbon by giving it a second aging in a hand-crafted, heavy toast, #1 char new American oak barrel made exclusively from Ohio-grown oak. This unique process imparts sweet and complex flavors of toffee, brown butter, and cocoa, complemented by a subtle nuttiness that transitions into a finish rich with oak and baking spices. Buy it now!

Neeley Family Distillery, The Old Jett Brothers, Sauternes Finished Bourbon, 57.2% ABV

This bourbon reflects the heritage of a traditional Kentucky family brand. Crafted from a mash bill featuring wheat and aged for five years, it undergoes a unique finishing touch in Barbados rum barrels for an additional nine months, imparting distinctive flavors and character.

Four Roses Single Barrel, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV

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!

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!

Shortbarrel, Single Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 62.8% ABV

Emerging from its humble origins as a small barrel-picking group in 2016, the Shortbarrel name has become synonymous with exceptional quality on the home bar scene, reserved only for barrels that meet their exacting standards. They extend an invitation to join their club and appreciate the fact that no two barrels are identical. As observed by Lee Diaz, a Topflight Series Panel Member, Shortbarrel has rapidly risen in the ranks, transitioning from a barrel-picking group to a respected brand, supported by a portfolio of multi-award-winning releases. Lee recounts his visit to Atlanta, where he had the privilege of selecting barrels with the remarkable Shortbarrel team, ultimately leading to the discovery of this exceptional Cask Strength Bourbon. Even before you uncork the bottle, you'll be struck by the distinctive 75/13/12 mash bill, a blend you may have grown fond of through recent Booker's releases. Aromas of orange zest, cherry, maple, and oak greet your senses, exuding a welcoming charm. Buy now starting at $92.00.

New England Barrel Company, Single Barrel Select 5 Year Bourbon, 61.9% ABV

Our latest Rye Barrels have undergone over 8 years of maturation in charred new American oak barrels, a process influenced by the natural rhythm of changing seasons. While each barrel possesses its own unique characteristics, they all share common attributes such as a enticing aroma, a rich palate, and a lingering finish that entices you to savor every sip. 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.

Colonel E. H Taylor Jr Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV

Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Bourbon pays homage to its namesake with a blend of seven-year-old barrels carefully selected from the sixth floor of a Kentucky warehouse. Bottled in Bond at 100 proof, this bourbon offers distinctive notes of oak and dried fruit. Initially sweet flavors transition into hints of salted caramel, butterscotch, and orange, leaving a lingering finish. Packaged behind a vintage label and canister reminiscent of bottles from over a century ago, each bottle of Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Bourbon embodies the tradition and legacy of its namesake. Buy it now!

Wilderness Trail, High Rye Bourbon, 50% ABV

Our small grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys are presented in Small Batch format, comprising up to 12 barrels per batch, all stemming from a single fermenter. This approach allows us to capture the full essence of complex notes from multiple barrels originating from the same distillate. To offer enthusiasts of our Wheated Single Barrel Bourbon an opportunity for a comparative tasting experience, we've chosen to release the Small Batch Bourbon as a Bottled in Bond expression. Buy it now!

Broken Oak, Small Batch Bourbon, 50% ABV

Mystic Farm and Distillery presents an exceptional offering with their Broken Oak Straight Bourbon Whiskey, showcasing the esteemed craftsmanship of this North Carolina distiller. Bottled at 47% ABV and presented in a 750ml bottle, this high-quality bourbon whiskey is celebrated for its distinctive character and represents one of the finest expressions of the craft in North Carolina. With its discernible style and commitment to excellence, Broken Oak Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a testament to the artistry of Mystic Farm and Distillery. Buy it now!

Traverse City Whiskey, Barrel Proof Bourbon

Traverse City Whiskey presents its Limited Edition release, Barrel Proof, crafted from select whiskey barrels to offer unparalleled flavor. Bottled at full barrel proof, this pure and uncut whiskey is designed to be savored in life's simpler moments, providing a smooth and rich drinking experience however you choose to enjoy it. Buy it now!

Rabbit Hole Distillery, Raceking Founder’s Collection, 54.9% ABV

Introduced as part of the Founder's Collection series in 2020, the Rabbit Hole Founder's Collection Raceking Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a rare and exclusive offering. With only 1,365 bottles available, this release features a unique mash bill incorporating chocolate-malted wheat and chocolate-malted barley alongside corn, rye, and malted barley. Bottled at varying cask strength exceeding 109 proof, Rabbit Hole Raceking promises a distinctive flavor journey perfect for Easter celebrations and beyond. Characterized by chocolate-forward notes, complemented by caramel, subtle citrus, toasted oak, sweet cinnamon, and cereal undertones, it embodies the essence of a classic bourbon whiskey with a metaphorical "rabbit hole" of depth and complexity. Buy it now!

Blue Run Spirits, Trifecta Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 59.7% ABV

Blue Run Trifecta Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a meticulously crafted small-batch whiskey that exemplifies the art of blending premium base whiskey with the nuanced flavors of older "wood heat" whiskeys. Starting with a foundation of expertly distilled six-year-old whiskey, comprising less than half of the final blend, Blue Run Whiskey Director Shaylyn Gammon enhances depth and complexity by incorporating two whiskeys aged in the upper levels of their rickhouses. These select barrels, known for their intense "wood heat," contribute rich flavors and aromas, resulting in a bourbon of exceptional balance and character. Buy it now!

K Luke Whiskey Company, Straight Bourbon, 59.7% ABV

This blend is a harmonious fusion of mash bills featuring up to 36% rye sourced from both Kentucky and Indiana, resulting in a meticulously balanced composition of straight bourbon whiskies. Bottled at barrel strength and left non-chill filtered, this expression preserves the whiskey's full-bodied character and robust flavors, offering a bold and unadulterated drinking experience. Buy it now!