In the heart of America’s craft distilling scene, 2025 has kicked off with a bang for whiskey lovers. The New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC), San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), and ASCOT Awards have crowned some standout winners, showcasing the grit and creativity of distilleries like Larrikin Bourbon Co., New York Distilling Co., and Rare Character. These competitions, judged by industry heavyweights like bartenders, buyers, and sommeliers, aren’t just about taste—they factor in price, packaging, and market appeal, making their medals a badge of real-world excellence. For middle-aged guys across the U.S. who appreciate a good pour, these award-winning spirits are worth seeking out. Here’s a deep dive into the whiskeys that stole the show.
Image credit: Larrikin Bourbon Co.
Larrikin Bourbon Co. made waves at the NYISC, a prestigious event held annually in New York City since 2010. Known for its trade-only judging panel, the NYISC evaluates spirits from over 40 countries across categories like whiskey, gin, vodka, and more. Larrikin’s Single Barrel High Wheat Rye clinched a Double Gold, earning a stellar 98 points and the title of “Best Rye.” This whiskey’s bold, spicy profile stood out, proving it’s a must-try for rye fans. Not stopping there, Larrikin’s American Maple Finished Single Barrel Bourbon also secured a Double Gold, blending sweet maple notes with classic bourbon warmth. Their Single Barrel Bourbon and Decade Rye Cognac Cask both scored 95 points for Gold medals, while their Bottled in Bond expression and Rosewater Bourbon earned Silver with 93 points. At the Monterey International Competition, Larrikin added to their haul with Platinum and Gold awards for their Decade Rye and Bottled in Bond whiskeys, plus a “Best Gin” title for Fat Wombat Gin (92 points) and a Gold for Fat Wombat Vodka (93 points). These wins solidify Larrikin’s reputation as a powerhouse in craft distilling, appealing to guys who value quality and innovation in their glass.
Image credit: New York Distilling Co.
Meanwhile, New York Distilling Co. caught attention at the ASCOT Awards with their Opulent Orchard, a 7-year-old rye whiskey finished in apple brandy casks. This unique spirit, part of their Single Distillery Series, nabbed a Double Platinum award. The judges praised its orchard fruit nose, balanced rye spice, and slight char on the finish, calling it a “very nice display of a finished rye.” With a mashbill of 72% rye, 16% corn, and 12% malted barley, Opulent Orchard delivers a nose of fresh apples, rye spice, and black licorice. On the palate, expect cinnamon applesauce, apple pie, warm oak, and wintergreen mint, with a spicy, peppery finish. Bottled at 114.9 proof with only 410 bottles produced, this non-chill filtered whiskey is a rare gem. New York Distilling Co., one of the first urban distilleries in the U.S., has a history of pushing boundaries with rye, and this release shows why they’re a favorite for whiskey enthusiasts who enjoy bold, fruit-forward flavors.
Image credit: Rare Character
Rare Character also had a strong showing at the 2025 SFWSC, one of the world’s top spirits competitions. Their Batch 02 Kentucky Straight Bourbon took home a Double Gold with an impressive 98 points. This blend combines sugar-driven and spice-rich Kentucky bourbons with oak-heavy barrels from Indiana, creating a complex flavor profile. Expect aromas of burnt caramel, orange marmalade, vanilla wafer, and pumpkin snickerdoodle, with a syrupy mouthfeel bursting with honey, cinnamon graham cracker, leather, and roasted almonds. The long, citrusy finish ties it together with creamy vanilla and baking spices.
Image credit: Rare Character
Their Batch 01 Kentucky Straight Whiskey, a blend of 6- to 10-year-old whiskeys, earned a Gold medal with 91 points. This mix of Kentucky light whiskey and bourbon offers depth with notes of tobacco, charred oak, honey nut cereal, and brown butter, finishing with honey-glazed pastry and clove.
Image credit: Rare Character
Finally, their Single Barrel Series Bourbon (Barrel GLN-124), an 8+ year high-rye bourbon (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malt), also scored a Gold at 91 points. Aged in western Kentucky’s cooler warehouse floors, it boasts a silky mouthfeel with flavors of cinnamon, charred oak, strawberry syrup, and toffee, ending with a long finish of honey, maple, and holiday baking spices. These whiskeys appeal to men who savor intricate, layered pours that spark conversation over a poker game or a backyard barbecue.
Image credit: Old Dominick Distillery
Old Dominick Distillery, the only whiskey distillery in West Tennessee, brought its Southern grit to the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, where it earned Double Gold medals for both its Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey. Based in Memphis, Old Dominick has built a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts, and these awards mark the distillery’s highest achievement at this prestigious competition, run by The Tasting Alliance for its rigorous blind evaluations. Lead Distiller David Valentine, a Memphis native, credits the wins to meticulous care at every step, from grain sourcing to barrel aging. “Every decision, from mashbill to aging time, is about quality,” Valentine says, emphasizing the extra effort that goes into crafting spirits that stand out. Both the Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey have won over whiskey reviewers and casual drinkers alike, offering bold, rich flavors that shine whether sipped neat or shared with friends. Available at the distillery or Memphis-area retailers, these whiskeys are a testament to Old Dominick’s commitment to excellence, perfect for guys who appreciate a taste of Tennessee tradition.
Image credit: Woodinville Whiskey Co.
Woodinville Whiskey Co. also shone at the 2025 SFWSC, with their Flagship 100% Rye earning a Double Gold and an impressive 96 points. Crafted from rye grown on the Omlin Family Farm in Quincy, Washington, this grain-to-glass whiskey is distilled in Woodinville and aged back in Quincy’s barrelhouses, embracing two distinct Washington terroirs for a unique flavor profile. At 90 proof and aged over five years, it delivers aromas of cinnamon, clove, and fruit leather, with a palate of caramel, wood spice, and honey, finishing long and memorable. Co-Founder Orlin Sorensen notes the distillery’s hands-on approach, saying, “It’s not the most efficient way to make whiskey, but it’s worth it for something extraordinary.” Available nationally for $40, this rye is a go-to for men who want a bold, spicy pour with a story of craftsmanship. Woodinville’s tease of an upcoming older 100% Rye release only adds to the excitement for whiskey fans looking to elevate their collection.
What makes these awards stand out is the judging process. The NYISC emphasizes market relevance, ensuring winners aren’t just great-tasting but also practical for consumers in terms of price and presentation. The SFWSC and ASCOT Awards similarly rely on expert panels, making their medals a trusted mark of quality. For Larrikin, New York Distilling Co., Rare Character, Old Dominick, and Woodinville, these accolades highlight their ability to craft spirits that resonate with both judges and everyday drinkers. Whether it’s Larrikin’s rye-heavy intensity, Opulent Orchard’s apple-infused twist, Rare Character’s bold bourbon blends, Old Dominick’s Tennessee pride, or Woodinville’s Pacific Northwest flair, these whiskeys offer something for every palate.
For guys looking to stock their home bar or impress their buddies, these award-winners are a solid bet. Larrikin’s range, from their high-scoring rye to their maple-finished bourbon, brings versatility for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails. Opulent Orchard’s limited 410-bottle run makes it a collector’s item for those who love a unique rye with a story. Rare Character’s offerings, with their high-proof, complex profiles, are perfect for whiskey nerds who enjoy dissecting every sip. Plus, with New York Distilling Co.’s recent acquisition by a major Scotch producer, their Opulent Orchard feels like a timely celebration of American whiskey’s growing global clout.
These distilleries are proof that American craft spirits are thriving, blending tradition with innovation. Whether you’re a bourbon loyalist, a rye enthusiast, or a fan of Tennessee whiskey, the 2025 award winners from Larrikin, New York Distilling Co., Rare Character, Old Dominick, and Woodinville deliver bold flavors and quality that stand up to the best in the world. Grab a bottle, pour a glass, and toast to the craftsmanship behind these standout whiskeys.
