The sweet, rich notes you’ll find in the best bourbons, from toffee to cinnamon and vanilla, are the ideal introduction to the world of whiskey. You can also expect to find these signature flavours in the prominent style of the spirit produced in the US.
Bourbon originated from farmers on the east coast, when they realised they could turn their excess grains into something special; and when tax increases forced them further south into Tennessee and Kentucky, an industry was born.
Around the 19th Century bourbon found its focus in Kentucky and became a more refined product from which today’s rules around the drink were set: it must be made with at least 51% corn (barley, wheat and rye can also be found in the drink’s mash bill), aged in charred, new oak and bottled at over 40% ABV.
But contrary to popular belief, the whiskey can be made all over the USA, and not just in Kentucky. Some of the best bourbon at this year’s IWSC proves just that. There’s Georgia’s Spirits of the USA Legends Single Barrel Bourbon, which judges praised for its fragrant nose and fruity palate. And two spirits made in Texas – at Garrison Brothers and Ironroot Republic Distilling – scooped Silver medals in the category.
But top of the tree were a host of Kentucky Straight Bourbons from renowned producers the likes of Heaven Hill and Barton 1972, proving the Bluegrass State’s continued prowess for the spirit. Read on to discover the top-scoring bottles from the IWSC 2023.
HOW DO WE JUDGE THESE SPIRITS?
We run a tightly structured, rigorous spirits tasting process. That means that each spirit sample is pre-poured into numbered glasses and assessed blindly by the judges. Most importantly, our IWSC spirit judges are experts in their field, who work across all sectors of the drinks industry. For evidence, see our full list of judges.
HOW DO WE SCORE THESE SPIRITS?
Only the best spirits sampled receive a Gold or Silver award. For example, to win Gold, spirits have to score between 95 and 100 points. Meanwhile, Silver wines range from 90 to 94 points. Click here to read more on our scoring system.
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Club Oenologique is a premium lifestyle publication for curious and discerning wine and spirits lovers. Renowned for inspiring stories and trusted expertise, we connect people to the joys of the world, through the lens of wine, spirits and other interesting drinks. Based in London, our team of expert writers seek out thoughtful stories that introduce our readers to new people, places, drinking discoveries and insights, as well as exploring fresh perspectives on familiar themes. Membership to The Collection offers exclusive access to leading critics’ tasting reports, scores, tastings and events, especially tailored to collectors and investors. Our flagship Club Oenologique magazine offers even more insights for enthusiasts and collectors.
12 top bourbons from the IWSC 2023
