In the world of whiskey, few things get folks talking like a fresh round of awards from the International Wine and Spirits Competition. This event has been handing out honors for top-notch spirits and wines since way back in 1969, spotlighting the standouts in an industry that's grown massive. Bourbon alone pulls in around $9 billion a year, according to folks at KY Bourbon, and it's a go-to choice at just about any decent bar across the country. This year, though, one bourbon rose above the pack, delivering a mix of deep, complex tastes from carefully put-together small batches that feel both refined and approachable.
Enter Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a bottle that's got a bit of enigma wrapped around it. The folks behind it keep the mash bill under wraps, and they don't spell out the exact age beyond saying it's at least four years old. But that secrecy seems to work in its favor, resulting in a spirit that's got a solid rye kick balanced out with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of cinnamon. It wraps up with touches of malt and brown sugar on the finish, making each sip feel smooth and layered without overwhelming the palate. Clocking in at 100 proof, this bourbon comes from blending just 10 to 15 barrels per batch, and while the distilleries involved stay anonymous, the brand hand-picks and mixes every barrel themselves to hit that sweet spot of quality.
Image credit: Frank August
What sets Frank August apart isn't just the taste—it's one of five bourbons the IWSC picked as the absolute best for 2025. Among those winners, it shines for nailing that tricky combo of high-end craftsmanship and a price that doesn't break the bank. At around $65 a bottle, it's the kind of pour where you get real artistry without the sticker shock. Every release is unique, with limited quantities and strict oversight to ensure nothing less than top-tier excellence. It's not mass-produced slop; it's the result of deliberate choices that make each batch feel special, like something you'd pull out for a quiet evening or to share with buddies who appreciate the good stuff.
When you stack Frank August up against the broader bourbon landscape, it's clear why it's turning heads. American whiskey drinkers have all sorts of preferences, from everyday staples to rare finds. Take Jim Beam, for instance—it's the top-selling whiskey brand in the U.S., often showing up as the house pour at bars on a budget. Beam's got enough pull to own other solid labels like Knob Creek and Booker's, but the whole operation falls under Suntory Global Spirits, a huge player in the drinks game. That corporate backing means Beam cranks out volume, keeping prices low and availability high, but it doesn't always chase the same depth of flavor.
Frank August, on the flip side, is a fresher face in the scene, still run by the people who started it. They skip the usual bourbon tales of handed-down family recipes or historic distilleries right on the property. Instead, the focus is on sourcing and blending to create something exceptional, paired with clean, contemporary packaging that feels modern without trying too hard. Sure, there are plenty of solid bourbons you can snag for under $50—Michter's comes to mind, or Basil Hayden's, which is actually part of the Beam family. Those are reliable picks that deliver without much fuss. But bumping up to Frank August means stepping into richer territory, with those extra layers of taste justifying the slight price jump. You're not paying for a folksy backstory; you're investing in a bourbon that punches above its weight in complexity and satisfaction.
Of course, enjoying any bourbon the right way matters as much as picking the bottle. One common slip-up is diving in too quick—give it a moment to open up after pouring, letting the air mingle with the spirit to bring out the full range of aromas and flavors. It's a small step that can make a big difference, turning a good drink into something memorable.
All in all, Frank August Small Batch represents where bourbon's headed: thoughtful production that respects tradition but isn't chained to it, offering premium quality at a fair cost. In a market flooded with options, from giants like Beam to hidden gems, this one's proving that sometimes the best surprises come from keeping things straightforward and focused on what ends up in the glass. If you're looking to elevate your shelf without emptying your wallet, this 2025 winner might just become your new favorite.
