The history of American whiskey dates back to the seventeenth century when colonists introduced the raw, unaged spirit to the North American continent. Over the centuries, American whiskey has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into the complex and diverse liquid it is today. From big-bodied bourbons to ryes and Tennessee whiskeys, the regional styles of American whiskey have captured the attention of drinkers worldwide, solidifying their place on the global stage.
In recent years, the American whiskey industry has experienced unprecedented growth, with over 740 whiskey and bourbon distilleries operating in the United States as of 2023. This represents an 11.6% increase from the previous year, according to a report from IBIS World. The surge in popularity has led to a boom in new whiskeys hitting the market, offering consumers a wide range of options to choose from.
The annual World Whiskies Awards, established in 2007 by Whiskey Magazine, has become a premier event in the whiskey world. With over 200 judges participating in blind taste-testing, the event evaluates whiskies from around the globe to determine the best of the best. The following American whiskies were recognized for their excellence and took home the coveted World’s Best crowns.
Founded in 2011 in Evanston, Illinois, F.E.W. Spirits is an urban distillery known for its small-batch artisanal whiskeys made from locally sourced grains. Their American Straight Whiskey, a blend of rye, bourbon, and malt whiskeys aged in cherrywood-smoked barrels, was awarded the World’s Best American Style Whiskey. Bottled at 93 proof, this whiskey offers a balance of sweet and spicy flavors that impressed the judges.
Uncle Nearest, founded in 2017, is the most successful Black-owned distillery globally, known for its 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey. Named after Nathan “Nearest” Green, this Tennessee whiskey follows the Lincoln Country Process, employing sugar maple charcoal filtration for a smooth finish. With over 125 awards worldwide, this 100-proof blended whiskey stood out as the World’s Best Tennessee Whiskey at the awards.
Laws Whiskey House, a Denver-based distillery established in 2011, has gained recognition for its high-quality whiskeys made from locally sourced ingredients. The Four Grain Bourbon Cask Strength was named the World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon, highlighting the brand’s commitment to quality and unique flavor profiles. Aged in oak barrels for at least three years, this bourbon offers a balanced blend of spices and fruits, impressing the judges with its complexity.
Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon
As a longstanding name in the bourbon industry, Four Roses is known for producing flavorful and high-quality bourbons. The Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon, selected by Master Distiller Brent Elliot, was awarded the World’s Best Single Barrel Bourbon. Bottled at 100 proof, this complex bourbon offers a rich and layered experience with each sip, capturing the attention of discerning drinkers.
Breckenridge Distillery, located high in the Rocky Mountains, has made a name for itself with its innovative barrel aging techniques. The Breckenridge Port Cask Finish was named the World’s Best Finished Bourbon, showcasing the distillery’s expertise in creating unique and flavorful whiskeys. Finished in Tawny Port casks, this bourbon offers a balance of sweet and spicy notes that impressed the judges.
Produced by the Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, the 1792 12-Year-Old bourbon stands out as the World’s Best Bourbon. Aged for at least twelve years in charred American white oak barrels, this bourbon showcases the distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. With notes of sweetness, rich chocolate, and delicate caramel, this bourbon offers a well-balanced and inviting experience for bourbon enthusiasts.
The rise of American whiskey to prominence on the world stage is a testament to the industry’s dedication to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. The award-winning American whiskies highlighted at the World Whiskies Awards showcase the diversity and excellence of the American whiskey landscape, attracting drinkers from around the globe. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, American whiskey remains a symbol of tradition, ingenuity, and unparalleled flavor profiles.