Heaven Hill Distillery, a family-owned, Kentucky-based whiskey powerhouse, has solidified its reputation as one of the finest distilleries in the world by sweeping multiple prestigious accolades at the Whisky Magazine 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards. The star of the show was the Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special 2024 Edition, which claimed the coveted titles of “World’s Best Bourbon” and “Best Kentucky Bourbon.” This recognition, among others, underscores Heaven Hill’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the art of whiskey-making.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special 2024 Edition is a testament to Heaven Hill’s dedication to preserving tradition while embracing modernity. This special release was created in honor of the 25th anniversary of Heaven Hill’s acquisition of the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. The Old Fitzgerald brand itself has roots dating back to the 1880s and continues to embody the essence of quality and heritage. The 2024 edition has been particularly celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and deep connection to whiskey history.
The Bernheim Distillery played a pivotal role in Heaven Hill’s survival following a devastating fire in 1996 that destroyed the original distillery. Since then, the Bernheim facility has been at the heart of Heaven Hill’s operations, symbolizing resilience and growth.
Awards Galore
Heaven Hill Distillery didn’t just win in the bourbon category—it took home a total of 11 awards at the ceremony. The honors highlighted the company’s expertise across various facets of whiskey production, as well as its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Among the standout achievements:
- Best American Rye: Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
- Master Distiller of the Year: Conor O’Driscoll
- Sustainability Officer of the Year: Rachel Nally
- Visitor Attraction of the Year: Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience for the new Five Brothers Kitchen
- Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year: Josh Hollifield
These accolades emphasize the distillery's multifaceted contributions to the industry, from exceptional product quality to visitor engagement and environmental responsibility.
A Visionary Behind the Success
Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll has been instrumental in steering Heaven Hill’s success since joining the company in 2019. Under his leadership, the company’s American whiskey portfolio has flourished. He has overseen operations at the Bernheim Distillery and spearheaded the development of the soon-to-open $200 million Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky.
O’Driscoll’s innovative mindset and dedication to preserving the heritage of American whiskey have earned him industry-wide recognition. Beyond his role in production, he has actively advocated for industry standards, educated enthusiasts, and strengthened Heaven Hill’s iconic brands.
A Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Heaven Hill’s achievements are not just a result of tradition but also a commitment to progress. The company’s Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, which won “Best American Rye,” exemplifies its dedication to creating unique, high-quality products. Additionally, Heaven Hill’s focus on sustainability is evident through the leadership of Rachel Nally, who earned the title of Sustainability Officer of the Year.
The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, which won “Visitor Attraction of the Year,” showcases the distillery’s ability to connect with whiskey enthusiasts. The addition of the Five Brothers Kitchen to the visitor center has elevated the experience for guests, offering them an immersive journey into the world of bourbon.
Looking Ahead
As Heaven Hill continues to innovate and expand, its influence on the whiskey industry remains undeniable. The forthcoming Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown is expected to further solidify the brand’s legacy, blending state-of-the-art facilities with the timeless traditions of bourbon-making.
Co-President Kate Latts summed up the company’s ethos perfectly: “At Heaven Hill, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation while honoring the time-honored traditions of whiskey-making. These achievements reflect not only our passion for the craft but also our collective drive to continue elevating the whiskey experience for our consumers around the world.”
Conclusion
Heaven Hill Distillery’s remarkable success at the Whisky Magazine 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards is a testament to its dedication, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking approach. By honoring its rich history while embracing innovation, Heaven Hill has firmly established itself as a leader in the global whiskey industry, delivering exceptional products that continue to captivate enthusiasts and experts alike.
