In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a small but mighty whiskey distillery is making waves that are rippling far beyond the Mississippi River. Old Dominick Distillery, the only whiskey producer in West Tennessee, has just clinched two Double Gold medals at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, one of the most respected and competitive events in the global spirits industry. This remarkable achievement for their Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey not only highlights the distillery’s dedication to quality but also cements Memphis as a rising star in the world of craft whiskey.
A Triumph at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition
The San Francisco World Spirits Competition, organized by The Tasting Alliance, is no small feat. Known as the largest and longest-running blind evaluation in the spirits world, it brings together expert judges who taste and score entries without knowing the brands behind them. This ensures that awards are based purely on merit, making a Double Gold medal the ultimate stamp of approval. For a distillery to earn this honor, its spirit must impress every judge on the panel, leaving no room for mediocrity.
Image credit: Old Dominick
Old Dominick Distillery’s Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey stood out among thousands of entries, earning the highest recognition the competition offers. This isn’t just a win for the distillery—it’s the most significant accolade Old Dominick has ever received from this prestigious event. For a craft distillery based in Memphis, a city more famous for blues and barbecue than whiskey, this victory is a game-changer.
The Spirits That Stole the Show
So, what makes Old Dominick’s Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey so special? Both spirits have been celebrated by whiskey reviewers, industry media, and bourbon fans since their release, and their Double Gold wins only confirm what enthusiasts already knew: these are whiskeys worth savoring.
The Cask Strength Bourbon is a bold, high-proof offering that showcases the distillery’s commitment to flavor. Bottled at a robust 114 proof, it boasts a complex profile with notes of leather, dark chocolate, cinnamon, and caramel, thanks to its high-rye mashbill. This whiskey is unapologetically intense, yet it maintains a balance that makes it approachable for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and newcomers.
The Bonded Tennessee Whiskey, on the other hand, pays homage to the state’s rich whiskey-making heritage while meeting the strict standards of the Bottled-in-Bond Act. This means it’s aged for at least four years, bottled at exactly 100 proof, and produced in a single distilling season at one distillery. The result is a smooth yet flavorful whiskey that captures the essence of Tennessee’s terroir, with a depth that resonates with judges and consumers alike.
The Hard Work Behind the Gold
Winning Double Gold isn’t something that happens by accident. As David Valentine, Old Dominick’s Lead Distiller and a proud Memphian, explains, crafting a world-class spirit requires meticulous attention to every detail. From selecting the finest grains to perfecting the mashing process, distillation, barrel entry proof, barrel quality, aging time, and blending, every step is a chance to elevate the final product. “Having the goal of making the best spirit possible usually means more effort at each of those steps, or potentially higher costs,” Valentine says. “We don’t mind incurring those tradeoffs if it means we achieve our goal.”
This dedication to quality is what sets Old Dominick apart. The distillery doesn’t cut corners, even when it would be easier or cheaper to do so. Instead, they pour their heart and soul into every batch, ensuring that each bottle reflects the craftsmanship and pride of Memphis. It’s a philosophy that resonates with whiskey lovers who appreciate authenticity and excellence.
A Legacy Reborn in Memphis
Old Dominick Distillery isn’t just a newcomer to the whiskey scene—it’s a revitalized brand with deep roots. Founded in 1866 by Domenico Canale, the distillery has a storied history that was brought back to life by fifth-generation grandsons Chris and Alex Canale. In May 2017, they opened the modern Old Dominick Distillery in downtown Memphis, transforming a historic building into a hub for craft spirits, distillery tours, tastings, and a full-service bar known as Bar 1866.
Located in the vibrant heart of Memphis, the distillery is more than just a place to make whiskey—it’s a destination. Visitors can explore the production process, sample a range of spirits, and enjoy craft cocktails that highlight Old Dominick’s versatile lineup. Bar 1866 has become a local favorite, offering a cozy spot to sip innovative drinks made with the distillery’s award-winning spirits.
Why This Win Matters for Memphis and Beyond
For Old Dominick, the Double Gold medals are a testament to their hard work and vision. But the impact of this achievement goes far beyond the distillery’s walls. It puts Memphis on the map as a legitimate player in the craft whiskey world, challenging the dominance of traditional whiskey regions like Kentucky and Tennessee’s more established distilleries. It also shines a spotlight on West Tennessee, a region that hasn’t historically been associated with whiskey production.
The enthusiasm for Old Dominick’s Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey is palpable. Both spirits have garnered rave reviews from bourbon enthusiasts and industry insiders, and their availability at the distillery and Memphis-area retailers makes it easy for locals and visitors to get their hands on a bottle. For those outside the area, Old Dominick’s website offers a handy tool to find nearby retailers carrying their products.
A Bright Future for Old Dominick
As Old Dominick Distillery basks in the glow of their Double Gold wins, the future looks promising. The distillery’s commitment to quality, combined with its deep connection to Memphis, positions it for continued success. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just curious about what makes Tennessee whiskey so special, Old Dominick is a name to watch.
For those planning a trip to Memphis, a visit to Old Dominick Distillery is a must. Daily tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how their award-winning spirits are made, while tastings let you experience the flavors that earned them global recognition. And if you’re looking for a great cocktail, Bar 1866 is the place to be, serving up drinks that celebrate the distillery’s legacy and innovation.
Memphis Whiskey’s Time to Shine
Old Dominick Distillery’s Double Gold wins at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition are more than just awards—they’re a declaration that Memphis whiskey is here to stay. With their Cask Strength Bourbon and Bonded Tennessee Whiskey leading the charge, Old Dominick is proving that small distilleries can compete with the biggest names in the industry. By staying true to their roots and refusing to compromise on quality, they’ve earned their place among the world’s best.
For whiskey lovers, Memphis locals, and anyone who appreciates a good underdog story, Old Dominick Distillery’s triumph is something to celebrate. So, the next time you’re in Memphis, swing by the distillery, raise a glass at Bar 1866, and toast to a brand that’s putting West Tennessee on the whiskey map—one award-winning sip at a time.
