In the heart of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, a distillery is making waves with a bold approach to crafting spirits. Larrikin Bourbon Co. turned heads at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, bringing home a haul of medals that’s got whiskey fans buzzing. This isn’t just another bourbon story—it’s about a team that’s blending old-school Kentucky know-how with a fearless, almost rebellious spirit to create something worth sipping.
Larrikin’s standout was its Bottled in Bond Bourbon, which clinched a Double Gold Medal, a rare honor reserved for spirits that score 94 points or higher from every judge. This isn’t a fluke; it’s a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality. The bourbon, with its rich, smooth profile, is crafted under strict standards, ensuring every bottle delivers a punch of flavor that lingers just right. For those who appreciate a whiskey that’s both traditional and bold, this one’s a must-try.
But Larrikin didn’t stop at one win. They’ve Every single entry they submitted to the competition walked away with a medal, proving they’re not a one-hit wonder.
Their single entry, Bourbon, known for its spicy yet balanced character and sipping up a Gold medal.
Then there’s the Deep Purple Single Barrel Bourbon, a limited-release gem that snagged a Silver Medal. This one’s a bit harder to find, but its unique flavor profile—think deep, complex notes that unfold with every sip—makes it worth the hunt. It’s the kind of bourbon you save for a special occasion, or maybe just a quiet night when you want to treat yourself.
What’s surprising, though, is Larrikin’s venture into gin. Their Fat Wombat Kentucky Gin, the distillery’s first white spirit, scored a Gold Medal with an impressive 94 points. This isn’t your typical gin—it’s got a mischievous twist that sets it apart. Greg Keeley, Larrikin’s founder and distiller, admitted gin wasn’t part of the original plan. “We just figured if we were going to do it, we’d do it our way,” he said in a recent statement. The judges clearly agreed, praising the gin’s bold, distinctive character that’s perfect for a martini with some attitude.
Keeley’s passion for crafting spirits shines through in every bottle. “We’re absolutely bloody chuffed,” he said, reflecting on the competition results. “We started this to make bourbon we wanted to drink, and it’s wild to see it connect on the world stage.” His words capture the heart of Larrikin: it’s about making something honest, something you’d be proud to pour for a friend.
Larrikin Bourbon Co. isn’t just riding the craft distillery wave—they’re carving their own path. By marrying Kentucky’s deep bourbon traditions with what they call “Australian irreverence,” they’re creating spirits that feel both timeless and fresh. Their small-batch approach means every bottle gets the attention it deserves, from the grain to the glass. It’s a process that takes time, but the results speak for themselves.
For whiskey lovers, Larrikin’s success at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition is a signal to pay attention. This Lawrenceburg distillery is proving that you don’t need a century of history to make a mark—you just need grit, creativity, and a damn good recipe. Whether you’re a bourbon purist, a rye enthusiast, or even curious about a Kentucky-made gin, Larrikin’s lineup has something to offer.
So, next time you’re looking for a bottle to elevate your bar cart, consider grabbing one from Larrikin. Their Bottled in Bond Bourbon is a safe bet for a classic, while the High Wheat Rye or Deep Purple Bourbon might surprise you with their depth. And if you’re feeling adventurous, shake up a martini with Fat Wombat Gin. Whatever you choose, you’re not just drinking a spirit—you’re tasting a story of craftsmanship and a little bit of mischief.
