In the world of spirits, whiskey stands out as one of the most popular and beloved choices for drinkers around the globe. With a wide array of styles and blends offered by distillers from all corners of the world, navigating the whiskey landscape can be overwhelming. Additionally, the price range for whiskey bottles can be significantly vast, ranging from affordable options to luxury bottles. With over 3,800 whiskey distillers globally, according to the American Distilling Institute, the availability of drams from single malt distilleries in Scotland, blending operations in Japan, and classic bourbon makers in Kentucky is abundant. However, amidst the sea of choices, finding the best bottles becomes a challenging task.
The Role of International Spirits Competitions
Thankfully, international spirits competitions can serve as a guiding light for whiskey enthusiasts in search of exceptional bottles. These competitions bring together panels of industry experts who participate in blind-tastings to identify the truly remarkable whiskies amidst the crowded market. Just as they have done for other spirits like bourbon, rum, tequila, and gin, these competitions highlight five outstanding whiskeys that have been recognized as the best in the world in 2023. Excitingly, these bottles are not only admired by experts but are also a valuable addition to any whiskey lover’s collection.
The founders of 15 Stars had two goals in mind when they launched their brand in 2022: to create the finest aged whiskey on the planet and pay homage to the birthplace of bourbon, Kentucky. Their First West Fine Aged Rye Whiskey achieved both objectives and was crowned the World’s Best Whiskey at the renowned New York World Spirits Competition. By blending straight rye whiskeys aged between six and eight years, they have crafted a whiskey with the perfect balance of spiciness, complemented by subtle fruit and tobacco undertones.
Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whiskey
One of the most intriguing developments in whiskey over the past few decades is the rise of American single malt whiskeys. Historically dominated by the Scots, American distillers have begun producing single malt whiskeys that captivate whiskey enthusiasts with their complexity and simplicity of flavors. Winning the title of Whisky of the Year at the London Spirits Competition is Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whiskey. This exceptional whiskey is made from 100% malted barley sourced from North America and undergoes a double cask maturation process. Initially aged in first-fill bourbon casks for at least five years, it is then finished in European red wine cuvée casks. The result is a whiskey with delightful hints of bright berries complemented by notes of toffee.
Glenfairn Floral Highland Single Malt Whisky
If you desire a whisky that has caught the attention of the awards circuit, look no further than Glenfairn Highland Single Malt. This whisky has received numerous accolades, including a Gold Outstanding, a Whiskey Trophy, and an impressive score of 99 points at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. Surprisingly, this budget-friendly whisky priced at approximately $30 was originally intended for supermarket shelves in the U.K. Produced by the same reputable distillers responsible for renowned single malt whiskies like Jura and Dalmore, Glenfairn Highland Single Malt offers a truly delightful experience. With its wonderfully fragrant nose and a palate that boasts a tropical mango base and creamy toffee, it showcases exceptional balance and finishes with a rich floral character.
As one of the earliest distillers to rise after the Prohibition era, Heaven Hill has solidified its position as a staple bourbon choice among drinkers in America. With an astonishing 1,600,000 barrels of aging bourbon whiskey stored in countless rickhouses across Kentucky, Heaven Hill’s expertise is unquestionable. Their Bottled-In Bond expression, named the World Whiskey of the Year at the Bartender Spirit Awards, encapsulates the skill and craftsmanship of their distillers. This straightforward whiskey boasts a subtle spicy rye kick balanced with delightful notes of vanilla, honey, and caramel sweetness, making it the perfect choice for both cocktails and sipping neat.
Tomatin Highland Single Malt 36 Year Old
For collectors seeking rare and remarkable bottles or whiskey enthusiasts in search of an extraordinary dram, Tomatin Highland Single Malt 36 Year Old stands out as a true gem. With only 1,200 bottles released globally each year, this limited-release whisky holds a significant place in the market. Often commanding high prices in the resale market, Tomatin Highland Single Malt has been recognized as the Best in Show Whisky at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Tomatin’s distillers, known for their exceptional expertise, have crafted a remarkably smooth and complex Scotch whisky that outshines over 1,800 other entrants. While it may require a significant investment, the experience of indulging in this exceptional whisky is undeniably unforgettable.
As whiskey enthusiasts embark on their quest to explore the vast world of whiskey, these five award-winning bottles present a remarkable starting point. Each bottle bears the accolades of esteemed competitions, signifying their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. From the perfect balance of flavor in the 15 Stars First West Fine Aged Rye to the emergence of American single malt whiskey showcased in Courage & Conviction, and the budget-friendly Glenfairn Highland Single Malt, to the skillfully crafted Heaven Hill Bottled-In Bond and the rarity and complexity found in Tomatin Highland Single Malt 36 Year Old, these whiskeys are a testament to the diverse and captivating nature of the spirit. Embark on this journey and savor the wonders that each bottle holds, for there is always something new to discover in the world of whiskey.
Leave a Reply