Best bourbon 2024: award-winning US whiskey to try right now

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 19^th 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.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company — Kentucky Peerless Distilling in Kentucky, producer of one of this year's star bourbon whiskies

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 Indiana’s Remus Gatsby Reserve 15 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which judges praised for its enticing aromas of bubble-gum and gentle spice. And from Texas comes TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey which scooped a gold medal and an impressive 96 points.

Yet Kentucky had a strong showing in this year’s competition, holding two of the top spots in the list. First goes to Toasted Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co, which was described as an ‘outstanding bourbon’ with ‘captivating aromas of rich oak integrated with vibrant orchard fruit and warm cinnamon’, proving the Bluegrass State’s continued prowess for the spirit. Read on to discover the top-scoring bottles from the IWSC 2024.

HOW ARE SPIRITS JUDGED?

Each spirit sample is pre-poured into numbered glasses and assessed blindly by the judges as part of the rigorous tasting process. IWSC spirit judges are experts in their field, from critics to buyers. 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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