The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) has just unveiled the winner of its 2025 “Best of Show Whiskey” award at the annual convention held in Denver, Colorado. This year, bourbon enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are buzzing about the top prize winner: the Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon from Calumet Farm. This soon-to-be-released bottle has already cemented its place as a standout in the competitive world of high-end bourbons.
Image credit: Calumet Farm
The WSWA Competition: A Tradition of Excellence
Since 1943, the WSWA has been a driving force in the beverage alcohol industry, representing distributors across the United States. Its annual convention gathers more than 370 members and over 3,000 attendees, providing a platform to showcase and evaluate some of the finest wines and spirits available. The judging process, conducted in partnership with the Tasting Alliance, is known for its rigorous standards, making the award a hallmark of quality and craftsmanship.
This year’s standout selection was a surprise to many, as the Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon has yet to officially hit the market. But its exceptional qualities clearly impressed the panel of seasoned judges, earning it the highest honor of the competition.
What Makes Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon Exceptional?
Crafted by Calumet Farm in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon is a non-chill filtered, 118-proof powerhouse. Its mashbill consists of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley—a recipe that many experts believe points to a Barton 1792 origin, though Calumet Farm has not confirmed this.
Image credit: Calumet Farm
The whiskey’s 18-year aging process contributes to its deep complexity and rich character. Tasting notes describe a nose bursting with peppered stone fruit, while the palate showcases amplified flavors of vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon. The high-proof liquid delivers these classic bourbon notes with remarkable intensity, carried by a creamy mouthfeel. The finish is a luxurious blend of crème brûlée and candied apple, leaving a lasting impression on the senses.
A Century of Legacy, A Decade of Innovation
Although Calumet Farm as a brand only began producing bourbon in 2013, the farm itself boasts a 100-year history steeped in tradition. This release is a tribute to that milestone, with the Centennial 18-Year-Old serving as both a celebration of the past and a testament to the future. The brand describes the bourbon as being “crafted at peak convergence for flavor and a robust, traditional Kentucky profile,” reflecting the patience and dedication required to produce a truly exceptional whiskey.
Presentation and Price
Image credit: Calumet Farm
The Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a sensory one. Packaged in a striking “trophy decanter,” the bottle is designed to stand out on any shelf, with its rich mahogany liquid glowing through the faceted glass. However, this level of craftsmanship comes at a premium. The bourbon is set to retail at $499 per bottle, making it a luxury purchase for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Availability and Anticipation
While the exact release date has yet to be announced, interested buyers can sign up on Calumet Farm’s website for updates. With its accolades and limited availability, demand for this bourbon is expected to be high. Fans of premium whiskey will want to act quickly to secure a bottle of this award-winning spirit when it becomes available.
A Whiskey Worth the Hype
Image credit: Calumet Farm
The Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon’s victory at the WSWA 2025 competition is a testament to the artistry and expertise behind its creation. For bourbon lovers, this is a must-try expression that combines tradition, innovation, and unmatched quality. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, this release is sure to leave a lasting impression and could easily become the crown jewel of any whiskey collection.
Stay tuned for the official release date, and prepare to raise a glass to this extraordinary achievement from Calumet Farm.
