The International Whisky Competition (IWC) has been at the center of the whisky industry for the past fifteen years. In a world where the search for the best whisky never ends, the IWC has set itself apart by only accepting whisky and awarding gold, silver, and bronze medals.
The IWC has been dubbed “The Olympics of whisky competitions” by industry experts. It follows a strict process where all entries, regardless of category, are double blind-taste tested by a panel of whisky professionals. Each spirit is evaluated against fifteen criteria and given a final score out of 100 points. This rigorous process is designed to ensure that only the best whiskies are recognized.
In recent years, the rise of American whisky and bourbon has been impossible to ignore. This year, the competition split into two tastings, one in Kentucky and one in Scotland, to accommodate the growing number of American entries. Out of the 102 whiskies that scored 90 points or higher, 35 were American whiskies. This highlights the increasing influence of American distilleries in the global whisky market.
The IWC recently awarded George T. Stagg as the Best American Whiskey and Best Bourbon Whiskey, with an impressive score of 94.98 points. Following closely behind were NOCO Distillery with their Founders Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon and W.L. Weller Antique 107. These whiskies have all been rigorously vetted and tested, making them standout choices for bourbon enthusiasts.
The International Whisky Competition continues to be a beacon of excellence in the whisky world. By sticking to its strict judging process and focusing solely on whisky, the IWC ensures that only the finest whiskies are recognized and awarded. As the industry evolves and American whiskies gain more prominence, the IWC remains a reliable guide for consumers looking to discover the best whiskies in the world.