Latest news with #AmericanWhiskey
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
America's Top Bourbon, According To International Wine & Spirit Comp
Toasting with a glass of bourbon. Over 50 bourbons earned top honors at the 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition judging of American whiskey recently held in Kentucky. Below is a summary of the top-ranked bourbons, along with links to more detailed background information and tasting notes for each winner. Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Barrel Strength Whiskey, 59.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 Jefferson's Reserve Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Whiskey, 65% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Hazelwood Spirits Company, Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 5 Years Old, 67.1% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 94/100 Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B524 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 65.3% Abv, 750 ml Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig Whiskey Barrel Proof C924 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 11 Years Old, 64.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 Old Dominick Distillery, Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey, 6 Years Old, 61.7% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 92/100 Pinhook, 5 Year Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 59.1% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 91/100. For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Top Cask Strength Bourbons From the International Wine & Spirit Competition H.K. Young Bourbon Co., Toasted Barrel Finished Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey, 6 Years Old, 45.7% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 RD1 Spirits, Finished with Japanese Mizunara and French Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 6 Years Old, 61.7% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 92/100 Angel's Envy, Whiskey Finished in Port Wine Barrels Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 43.3% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 91/100 Bardstown Bourbon Company, Collaboration Series Ferrand Whiskey. 12 Years Old, 56% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 91/100 15 Stars, Three Ports Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 90/100 Angel's Envy, 2024 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 59.4% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 90/100 For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Best Cask Finished Bourbon From The International Wine and Spirit Competition. Praedictum, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 56% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 Frank August, Cask Strength Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 60.7% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Wild Turkey, Russell's Reserve, Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 55% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 94/100 Blanton Distilling Company/Buffalo Trace, Original Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 Blanton Distilling Company, The Gold Edition Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 51.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 92/100 Hartfield & Co. Distillery, Family Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 72.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 91/100 Blanton Distilling Company, Straight From The Barrel Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 62% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 90/100 The Old Steelhouse's Blueprint Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 92/100. For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Top Single Cask Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirit Competition. Single barrel bourbons in a Glencairn whiskey glass Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Bottled-In-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score 94/100 Angel's Envy, Cask Strength Bottled-In-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 92/100 Heaven Hill, Bottled-In-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 90/100 For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Top-Rated Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirit Competition. Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 Heaven Hill, Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 47% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 15 Stars First West Small Batch Whiskey, 51% ABV, 5 Years Old, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Fathertime Bourbon, Second Child Syndrome: Empty Nester Strength Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 59.4% ABV, 750 ml Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Castle & Key Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 6 Years Old, 51% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold 2025, Score: 95/100 Fathertime Bourbon, Firstborn Edition Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml. 92/100 points; Fathertime Bourbon, Second Child Syndrome Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml. 91/100 and Fathertime Bourbon, The Middle Child Mystery Precious Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46.2% ABV, 750 ml. 91/100 For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Top Small Batch Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirit Competition. King's Family Distillery, Tennessee Standard Blended Bourbon Whiskey, 59% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 15 Stars, First West Extra Aged Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey, 54.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 94/100 Blue Run Spirits, Kentucky Straight High Rye Bourbon Whiskey, 55.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 94/100 Peg Leg Porker (Teal Hollow Distilling) Black Label Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 Heaven Hill, Evan Williams 1783 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 Heaven Hill Distillery, Grain To Glass Traditional Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 The Difference Bourbon, The Foundation Whiskey, 54.1% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 Pinhook Vertical Series 9 YO Bourbon Whiskey, 57.2% abv, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 Wild Turkey, 8-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 Bulleit Frontier Whiskey's 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.6% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 91/100. Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 47% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver 91/100 Wild Turkey, 101 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50.5% ABV, 750ml. Spirit Silver, Score 90/10 Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 7-Years-Old, 49.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score 90/100 Smooth Ambler's Old Scout 7-Year-Old, 50.5% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Silver, Score, 90/100. For a more detailed background and tasting notes on these whiskeys, see Gold Medal Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirit Competition Charring a white oak bourbon barrels. Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg Rock Town Distillery Bourbon Y'all Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score 95/100 Frank August Case Study: 05 Wheated Reserve 5 Barrel Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.3% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score 95/100 Heaven Hill Distillery Grain To Glass Traditional Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, 53.3% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score 95/100 O.H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey Uncharted Kentucky Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score 95/100 Wilderness Trail Distillery Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. Spirit Gold, Score 95/100 The 2025 IWSC American whiskey judging highlighted some of the top bourbons in America. All of these bourbons are outstanding, offering a diverse range of aroma and flavor profiles. Stylistically, the wheated bourbons were the standouts, but regardless of your bourbon preferences, you are bound to find a whiskey that suits your palate among these top-rated medal winners—time to start tasting.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Best Wheated Bourbon In America-According To The 2025 IWSC
Pouring whiskey from bottle into glass on wooden barrel against black background, closeup One of the more interesting developments in the American whiskey landscape is the slow rise of "Wheated Whiskeys/Bourbons." Known for delivering a softer and rounder flavor, they are starting to get attention. While certainly not a new style of whiskey, distillers have been producing whiskey with wheat in Kentucky since the early 1800s, and it is gaining popularity as drinkers seek innovation and flavor. Much like its cousin, the fledgling American Single Malt category, wheated whiskeys can become the next hot bottle. First, a quick primer for the uninitiated: What exactly is a wheated whiskey? In the simplest terms, it's a bourbon or American whiskey where wheat replaces rye as the secondary grain in the mash bill. That might sound like a minor tweak, but it has a profound impact on the final product. While rye typically delivers a spicier, peppery kick, wheat tends to impart a softer, sweeter, and often creamier mouthfeel, bringing forward notes of caramel, vanilla, and sometimes fruit or baked goods. The 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) just announced the results in their Wheated Bourbon Whiskey category, and it's clear these aren't just easy drinkers; they're top-tier bottles helping to shape the future of American whiskey. One bottle landed on top, bringing home a Gold Outstanding medal by scoring 98 points, and five others were awarded Gold Medals for scoring 95 points or higher. All highlight the fantastic possibilities for the Wheated Whiskey category moving forward. Here is a brief recap of all six bottles and the judges' tasting notes for each. Look, Maker's Mark built its empire on wheated bourbon, so for them to drop their first pure wheat whisky is a big deal. This 2025 inaugural release technically isn't a bourbon, as it does not contain corn in the mash. Still, the IWSC decided to categorize all wheated whiskeys together this year as bourbons. That being said, this is a bold bottle from Maker's Mark that any bourbon lover should grab. It shows that Makers Mark is not afraid to strip it down and explore new territory in grain flavor, even utilizing regenerative farming. It scored 98 points, and it is the Gold Outstanding winner in the category and, as such, the champ. It is also in the running for the IWSC's Whisky Trophy that will be awarded in November to the overall best bottle in the competition. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Attractive brown sugar, floral, and chocolate-covered papaya aromas, leading to a palate of cooked apple, cinnamon, and black tea. Warming with a long finish. Rock Town Distillery, located in Little Rock, Arkansas, has been focused on producing affordable products using local ingredients since 2010. They use grains sourced from nearby farms and barrels from a local cooperage. They keep winning awards, so they must be doing something right. Their Bourbon Y'all Whiskey is a test product that is not yet available to the public. Still, after seeing how well it performed at the IWSC, hopefully, they will put it into production soon. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A delightful aromatic display of vanilla and blood orange oil, underpinned by roasted coffee and a hint of earthiness. The rich palate reveals complex layers of marzipan, cedar, and baking spices, culminating in a lingering, sweetly spiced finish. Devine. If you haven't heard of Frank August, don't feel bad; it's a smaller distillery launched in 2022 with the express purpose of producing high-quality bourbon that pays homage to the past while pushing boundaries. Their Case Study release line has garnered immense interest in the industry and has been raking in awards. Each one delves deeply into a specific aspect of the bourbon landscape and strives to produce the finest expression possible. Past bottlings have experimented with double oaking, rye, and cask finishing. Their latest, Frank August Case Study: 05 Wheated Reserve 5 Barrel Batch, already took home a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition to sit alongside its Gold medal from the IWSC. It's a prime example of where Wheated Bourbons could be heading. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Scents of maraschino cherry, orange, and vanilla give way to flavors of white peach and hay. Now to a big player, Heaven Hill Distillery Grain To Glass Traditional Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey. Heaven Hill is a powerhouse, a family-owned legacy since 1935, known for surviving infernos and stocking the world's second-largest bourbon inventory. Their "Grain to Glass" series, launched in 2024, which includes this wheated bourbon, is all about transparency, tracing grains back to local farms and showcasing a higher wheat content. Each bottle lays out the story of the liquid contained inside in clear language, allowing drinkers to delve into the effect that terroir can have on finely crafted whiskeys. It's yet another bottle that highlights the possibilities of this emerging category. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Rich leather mingles with black cherry sweetness and orange peel on the nose. The palate unfolds with a delightful balance of cooked pineapple, Brazil nut, and toffee. A robust, textured, and warming bourbon. O.H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey has leaned into an unusual method for crafting its whiskeys. Drawing on their family's five-generation history of operating barges and tugboats on the Mississippi River, they age their whiskeys on a floating rickhouse on the Mississippi River. The constant motion and unique climate exposure accelerate maturation, enabling more interaction between the barrel and the juice. Their Uncharted Kentucky Wheated Bourbon Whiskey is not yet available to the public and appears to be a test project. Let's hope it is in the market soon. The judges loved it. Here is what they had to say about it: The bouquet sings with juicy jam aromas interlaced with floral honey, maple, and oak spice. A mouthwatering palate reveals a harmonious blend of marzipan, cinnamon, and vanilla, finishing with a creamy, chocolatey warmth that lingers delightfully. Finally, Wilderness Trail Distillery Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey. These guys in Danville, Kentucky, are bona fide pioneers. They're famous for their "sweet mash" process and boast one of the highest wheat-to-corn ratios in the state. And get this: they were the first to release a Bottled-in-Bond wheated sweet mash bourbon after Prohibition. That tells you everything about their dedication to quality and adherence to strict standards while pushing boundaries. It's no surprise this bottle brought home a Gold Medal from the IWSC. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A vibrant aromatic display of orange skin, nectarine, and peach Melba. The palate reveals rich sultanas and apricot fruit, alongside creamy vanilla. Earthy roasted coffee, cedar, and hints of nutmeg lead to a delightful finish of warm spice and cherry. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry.
Forbes
5 days ago
- General
- Forbes
Best Cask Finished Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirits Comp
Glass of bourbon with smoking cigar with old barrel getty Four cask finished bourbons scored 90 points or higher at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits American whiskey judging. The IWSC is one of the world's largest spirit competitions. This is the second year they have held an American whiskey judging in Kentucky. Below is a brief description and tasting notes on the whiskeys. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) does not have a formal, codified definition for "cask finished whiskey" in the same way it defines categories like Bottled-in-Bond or Straight Bourbon Whiskey. However, the TTB does regulate how cask finishing must be disclosed and labeled on American whiskey, particularly when it involves spirits that undergo additional maturation in used or non-traditional barrels. Traditionally, the term 'cask finish' is used in the whiskey industry to designate a spirit that was 'finished' or underwent additional maturation in a cask that previously held another liquid, typically wine, especially sweet, fortified wines, beer, or spirits. The term is also applied, however, to casks made from white oak species other than American oak, such as Japanese Oak (Mizunara) or French oak. It can also be applied to American oak barrels that undergo non-traditional treatments, such as toasting rather than charring. In some cases, it can even be applied to whiskey that is double casked, using two charred barrels of American oak to magnify the influence of the cask wood. All the whiskeys below were designated as cask finished by their producers, although the nature of the finish varies significantly. Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 93/100 H.K. Young is a boutique label focused on finishing techniques and barrel selection. This bourbon undergoes additional aging in toasted American white oak barrels, a process that enhances sweetness and spice while softening the tannins. The whiskey features notes of toasted marshmallow, banana bread, and cocoa on the nose. The palate is smooth and creamy, showcasing caramel, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of graham cracker, wood spices, and maple syrup—a perfect after-dinner dessert whiskey. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as 'resinous notes and fresh oak meet delicate florals on the nose. The palate presents a dry, nutty profile with juicy sultana (raisins), fig, and spicy flavors that persist through to the finish.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 92 Based in Lexington, Kentucky, RD1 Spirits specializes in premium finishes and innovative small-batch whiskeys. This expression blends traditional Kentucky bourbon with a dual finishing in rare Japanese Mizunara oak and French oak casks, offering an expanded aroma and flavor profile with a layered, nuanced complexity. The whiskey features an exotic bouquet of sandalwood, ginger root, coconut husk, and rose petals on the nose. The palate is creamy and complex, showcasing layers of caramel, butterscotch, spiced fig, lemongrass, and vanilla, enhanced by Mizunara's signature incense and herbal complexity, as well as hints of red berries and stone fruits. Additionally, the French oak imparts polished tannins and notes of baking spice. The finish is long and aromatic, with lingering notes of floral, cinnamon bark, and white pepper—a remarkably well-integrated, elegant, and nuanced whiskey. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as 'full and creamy with bright notes of yellow peach and raspberry, with hints of black tea and honey. Well-balanced with a dry, lingering finish.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 91 This flagship release was among the first cask finished bourbons and helped popularize the contemporary bourbon-finished-in-wine-barrels trend. Angel's Envy uses traditional straight bourbon matured in American oak, then finished in ruby Port wine barrels, adding both a broader fruit profile and richness. On the nose, the whiskey features fig, vanilla, ripe plum, and red berry notes. The palate is silky and smooth, offering cherry syrup, raisin bread, caramel, and baking spices. The Port cask finish introduces soft tannin and jammy fruit undertones. The finish is long and creamy, with lingering notes of cocoa, stewed fruits, and a touch of toasted nutmeg. The IWSC Judging Panel described the bourbon as 'a sweet and fruity profile with decadent notes of caramel corn, peach, and hazelnut. The palate enjoys notes of dry oak and cinnamon.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 91/100 Bardstown Bourbon's Collaboration Series partners with world-class spirits houses for unique cask finishes. The Ferrand edition is a blend of seven and eleven year old bourbon finished in Pierre Ferrand Cognac casks, adding layers of Cognac character to their house-distilled Kentucky bourbon. The whiskey features aromas of dried apricot, honeysuckle, and baking spice on the nose. On the palate, the Cognac influence is readily apparent, showcasing flavors of honey, golden raisin, peach, toasted almond, and spices. The finish is smooth, rich, and well-rounded, with lingering notes of floral, seasoned oak, and citrus zest. The IWSC Judging panel described the bourbon as revealing 'luscious, overripe mango - inviting and rich. On the palate, a creamy texture gives way to a vibrant peppery kick, complemented by playful plum and brown sugar notes.' Two other cask finished bourbons scored 90 points. 15 Stars, Three Ports Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.5% ABV, 750 ml, and Angel's Envy, 2024 Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 59.4% ABV, 750 ml. Cask finished bourbons are expanding the aroma and flavor profile of American whiskey, adding new dimensions of flavor and texture while still preserving the core profile of bourbon. These whiskeys are outstanding, reasonably priced, and readily available. If you're looking to explore bourbon further and expand your flavor profile, these whiskeys are an excellent place to start.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Top Single Cask Bourbon Crowned By International Wine & Spirits Comp.
A glass of bourbon on a single cask. Eight single-cask bourbons scored 90 points or higher at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits American whiskey judging. One entry scored a Gold Outstanding, the highest medal given by the IWSC, and one bourbon scored a Gold medal. Below is a brief description and tasting notes on the whiskeys. Spirit Gold Outstanding, Score: 98/100 Praedictum, a rising star in the ultra-premium bourbon category, focuses on limited release bottlings sourced from aged Kentucky stocks. The bourbon is expertly blended to emphasize richness, balance, and complexity. The brand is named after the Latin word for 'prophecy,' reflecting the company's commitment to crafting innovative whiskeys that are rooted in tradition. The nose is rich and aromatic, featuring notes of cherry syrup, pipe tobacco, old leather, vanilla, and wood spices. The bourbon is smooth and silky on the palate, showcasing layered flavors of burnt sugar, roasted pecan, cinnamon, plum jam, wood spices, and seasoned oak. The finish is long, sweet, complex, and flavorful, with lingering notes of cacao, licorice, and char. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as featuring 'a deep, rich aroma of fudge and roasted hazelnuts greets you, intertwined with hints of beeswax and brown butter. The robust palate bursts with juicy peach and raspberry, softly mellowing into a peppery, oak-driven finish that lingers beautifully.' Award: Spirit Gold, Score: 95/100 Frank August's Cask Strength Single Barrel program represents the brand's most sophisticated and complex bottlings. Each barrel is individually selected and bottled uncut to showcase its unique character. The whiskey is bold and aromatic on the nose, featuring brown sugar, fresh-cut oak, cinnamon, and espresso. On the palate, it showcases flavors of black cherry, charred orange peel, cocoa, and candied ginger. The alcohol heat is unmistakable yet generally well-integrated. The finish is long and sweet with lingering notes of old leather, nutmeg, and burnt caramel. The IWSC Judging Panel described the bourbon as 'bursting with youthful wood and pecan notes, the palate enjoys a masterful interplay of sweet plum, blackberry, and butterscotch, enlivened by a generous dusting of black pepper. An aromatic and flavorsome bourbon made with excellent craftsmanship.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 94/100 A hallmark expression from Master Distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, this Wild Turkey, Russell's Reserve expression features non-chill-filtered, hand-selected single barrels bottled at 110 proof. Each barrel is aged in the top floors of their rickhouses for extra depth. The whiskey features a classic Wild Turkey profile but with greater intensity. It features caramel, ripe apple, clove, and roasted peanut on the nose. The palate is bold and spicy, showcasing notes of toffee, vanilla, dried fig, cinnamon, and seasoned oak. The finish is long and layered, with lingering notes of black pepper, char, and toasted coconut. The IWSC Judging Panel described the Russell's Reserve as exhibiting 'wood and resin aromas mingle with ash, blueberry, and vanilla custard. The palate is moreish and decadent, revealing cinnamon, pie crust, and chocolate notes.' Spirit Silver, Score: 93/100 Introduced in 1984, Blanton's, named after Albert B. Blanton, was the first widely released single-barrel bourbon. It's matured in Warehouse H and bottled at 93 proof. Its consistently rich profile and collectible stoppers have given it a cult following. The whiskey is rich and aromatic on the nose, featuring aromas of honey, citrus peel, chocolate, vanilla, caramel, and leather. The palate is silky and sweet, showcasing flavors of cinnamon, dark chocolate, orange zest, and baking spices. The finish is medium length, with lingering notes of toasted oak, soft tobacco, and a trace of mint. The IWSC Tasting Panel described the whiskey as 'rich coffee and mango lead the nose, unfolding into black tea and muskmelon. The creamy palate is well-rounded, offering a lifted sultana note, ending with an elegant finish.' Also scoring above 90 points were Blanton Distilling Company, The Gold Edition Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 51.5% ABV, 750 ml., 92/100; Hartfield & Co. Distillery, Family Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 72.5% ABV, 750 ml., 91/100; Blanton Distilling Company, Straight From The Barrel Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 62% ABV, 750 ml, 90/100; and The Old Steelhouse's Blueprint Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 52.5% ABV, 750 ml, 92/100. Single barrels are in many ways the epitome of bourbon's complexity and sophistication. Each barrel is unique, presenting an intriguing and sometimes irreproducible aroma and flavor profile. This is truly the best that bourbon can be. All these single-barrel bourbons are outstanding and well worth investigating. Some of them are quite reasonably priced. They are all worth a taste, and any one of them would make an excellent addition to your bar.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Top Rated BIB Bourbon From The International Wine & Spirits Comp
Three glasses of bourbon whiskey and ice stand in a pyramid on a wooden table. Three Bottled-in-Bond Bourbons scored 90 points or higher at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits American whiskey judging. The IWSC is one of the world's largest spirit competitions. This is the second year they have held an American whiskey judging in Kentucky. Below is a brief description and tasting notes on the whiskeys. The term "Bottled-in-Bond," or BIB, refers to a legal designation for American whiskey that meets strict standards defined by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This law was the first consumer protection statute in the United States, intended to ensure the authenticity and quality of American whiskey. To qualify as a Bottled-in-Bond whiskey, the product must meet the following criteria: 1. Produced by one distiller at one distillery. The entire bottling must be the product of a single distillation season (either January–June or July–December) at one distillery. 2. Aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse under U.S. government supervision. 3. Bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV), neither higher nor lower. 4. Nothing other than water may be added for dilution. No coloring, flavoring, or any other additive is permitted. 5. The label must state the distillery where it was distilled and, if different, where it was bottled. The designation "Bottled-in-Bond" was historically regarded as a mark of quality and integrity, particularly in an era when whiskey was often tampered with or adulterated. Today, BIB whiskeys continue to be appreciated by enthusiasts for their transparency, strength, and authenticity. Bourbon barrels Aging in rick house Spirit Silver 2025, Score 94/100 Bulleit Bottled-in-Bond is a new addition to the brand's core range, designed to showcase a more mature and robust profile. It's produced at Bulleit's Shelbyville distillery. The whiskey is bold and robust on the nose, featuring aromas of cinnamon bark, citrus oil, and toasted oak. It's spicy and flavorful on the palate, showcasing layers of dark caramel, peppercorn, clove, and vanilla. The finish is long and slightly dry, with lingering notes of leather, barrel char, caramel, and maple syrup. The IWSC Judging Panel described the bourbon as 'earthy with aromas of leather and burnt pastry, carrying onto a mouthwatering palate, where sweetened iced tea intertwines with nutty pecan. The elegant finish reveals lingering umami, beeswax, and a whisper of tobacco, inviting exploration.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 92/100 Known for its innovative barrel finishes, Angel's Envy limited-edition cask-strength Bottled-in-Bond releases are a more robust variant, featuring a higher proof and flavor intensity. The whiskey is robust and aromatic on the nose, featuring distinctive aromas of ripe plum, pipe tobacco, and fig jam. On the palate, it's full-bodied and silky, showcasing notes of chocolate, stewed cherries, cinnamon, and sweet/flavored pipe tobacco. The finish is long and creamy, with lingering notes of coffee, berry cobbler, and toasted oak spice. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as showcasing an aroma which 'opens with a gentle waft of smoke, entwined with vanilla and baking spices. On the palate, marzipan meets molasses and black pepper, leading to a bittersweet finish of marmalade and bright orchard fruit.' Spirit Silver 2025, Score: 90/100 This award-winning expression is part of Heaven Hill's heritage portfolio and a benchmark for the Bottled-in-Bond category. It utilizes the distillery's traditional mash bill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, and is aged for a minimum of seven years. It delivers excellent value and a classic bourbon character. The whiskey presents aromas of honey, baked apple, and peanut brittle on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth, showcasing notes of caramel, vanilla custard, dried orange zest, and a hint of rye spice. The finish is long and dry with lingering flavors of oak and caramel. The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as 'Eucalyptus and green banana skin greet the senses, complemented by honey and pepper. The palate reveals a harmonious balance of caramel sweetness and herbaceous spice, leading to a sandalwood-apple finish with a lingering warmth.' BIB whiskeys are a mainstay of bourbon, offering smooth, intensely flavored, aged whiskeys that can be relied upon to deliver a classic bourbon profile. All three of these whiskeys are outstanding, reasonably priced, and readily accessible. All three belong in your home bar!
