In the world of American spirits, where bold flavors and rich histories collide, one bottle has risen above the pack to claim top honors for 2025. VinePair, after sipping through countless whiskeys, crowned Old Potrero California Cellar Series #3: Gundlach Bundschu Gewürztraminer Finish as their best whiskey of the year. This isn't just another rye—it's a standout that blends tradition with a fresh twist, proving that sometimes the underdogs deliver the biggest punch.
Old Potrero has been crafting whiskey in San Francisco since 1993, making it the oldest craft whiskey brand in the country. Despite its long-standing roots in the Bay Area, it often slips under the radar, even among dedicated whiskey fans who chase the big names. That quiet reputation might explain why their latest series feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The California Cellar Series, which hit the scene in the fall of 2024, pays homage to the Golden State's vibrant producers through unique collaborations. Right now, the lineup includes four distinct ryes, each finished in barrels from top California makers: Silver Oak's Cabernet Sauvignon American oak, Sonoma Portworks' Petite Sirah port, Almanac Beer Co.'s imperial stout, and the star of the show, Gundlach Bundschu Winery's Gewürztraminer.
Image credit: Old Potrero
What sets this particular expression apart starts with the basics. Old Potrero sticks to a straightforward 100 percent rye mash bill, the kind that gives rye its signature spice and edge. The whiskey spends its first five years and eight months aging in toasted oak barrels, building a solid foundation of depth and character. Then comes the magic: it's transferred to Gewürztraminer barrels from Gundlach Bundschu in Sonoma for another 14 months. This finishing step isn't about overpowering the rye—it's about elevating it. The white wine influence adds a layer of sweetness that dances with the rye's herbal kick, creating a harmony that's tough to forget.
Clocking in at a robust 57.3 percent ABV, this rye packs plenty of heat, but it never overwhelms. Instead, it greets you with an inviting perfume of citrus and lychee that pulls you in right from the first sniff. On the tongue, it unfolds like a well-earned reward after a long day—think rich crème brûlée mingled with juicy pineapple, all wrapped in a sweetness that's balanced, not cloying. The finish lingers with those classic spicy, herbal rye notes, leaving a complex trail that keeps you reaching for another pour. And at just $80 a bottle, it's the kind of value that makes you wonder why more folks aren't talking about it.
Production-wise, this is no mass-market release. Only around 1,200 bottles dropped in July 2025, marking it as a limited-edition treat. But thanks to Old Potrero's low-key status, snagging one might not require a mad scramble. Word is, there's still some stock up for pre-order directly on their website, giving enthusiasts a shot at adding it to their collection without too much hassle.
Image credit: Old Potrero
VinePair didn't hand out this accolade lightly. They sampled hundreds, maybe thousands, of whiskeys, and plenty impressed with their balance and flair. A few even wowed outright, including some standout ryes and one Scotch that came close to stealing the show. Yet, this Gewürztraminer-finished rye kept drawing them back, sip after sip. It's a milestone too— the first time an American rye has snagged VinePair's top whiskey spot, and even their highest-rated spirit overall. That says something about how it's pushing boundaries in a category that's seen its share of innovation.
For those who appreciate a whiskey with a story, this one delivers on multiple fronts. It's rooted in San Francisco's craft scene, draws from California's wine country heritage, and showcases what happens when distillers think outside the barrel. The result is a spirit that's not just drinkable but memorable, the sort that sparks conversations around the fire pit or over a quiet evening at home. Tracking down a bottle might take a bit of effort, but for a taste of this level of complexity, it's the kind of pursuit that pays off in spades. In a year full of solid contenders, Old Potrero's creation stands as a reminder that great whiskey often comes from the places you least expect.
