Top Performers at the American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition 2023
Introduction to the American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition
The American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition, founded by the Wine Country Network in 2014, is a prestigious annual event. This competition brings together bourbons and whiskeys from across North America, evaluated through a rigorous double-blind tasting process. Among the many entries, the Savor Spear Straight Bourbon Whiskey stood out remarkably, earning the coveted ‘Best of Show’ award in 2023.
Savor Spear Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Savor Spear Straight Bourbon Whiskey excelled at the competition with an impressive score of 96 points. Produced by Northwest Spirits in Washington State, this bourbon boasts a mash bill of 23% rye, 5% malt, and 72% corn. It is distilled and aged for at least five years in American white oak, then finished in toasted oak staves before being bottled at 103 proof.
Tasting notes of Savor Spear include:
– Sweet vanilla bean
– Caramelized sugars
– Butterscotch
– Raw honey
– Custard
– Butter
Honorable Mentions at the Competition
Several other whiskeys made a significant impact at the American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition 2023. Here’s a brief overview:
– **BHAKTA 2013 Bourbon**: Scored 97 points, known for its vanilla and toasted oak flavors, aged in Armagnac Brandy barrels.
– **Garrison Brothers Single Barrel Cask Strength**: Scored 96 points, appreciated for its deep oak flavors, and matured in the Texas heat.
– **King’s Family Distillery Wheated Bourbon**: Achieved 95 points with notes of roasted caramel and chocolate.
Spotlight on Northwest Spirits and Buffalo Trace Distillery
Northwest Spirits is helmed by Merrisa Firnstahl-Claridge, a fifth-generation distiller who continues her family’s legacy in spirit production. The distillery has gained acclaim for high-quality bourbons, gins, and vodka.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, on the other hand, is a historic establishment that has contributed significantly to the bourbon industry. Expressions like Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Barrel Proof are testaments to their rich legacy, consistently scoring high in various competitions.
Detailed Overview of Top Bourbons
To better understand the excellence of these bourbons, let’s look at a comparative table of some top performers:
| Bourbon | Score | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Savor Spear Straight Bourbon Whiskey | 96 | Vanilla bean, caramelized sugars, butterscotch |
| BHAKTA 2013 Bourbon | 97 | Vanilla, toasted oak, nutmeg |
| Garrison Brothers Single Barrel Cask Strength | 96 | Butterscotch, vanilla, sweet oak |
| King’s Family Distillery Wheated Bourbon | 95 | Roasted caramel, chocolate, toffee |
Why Savor Spear Stands Out
Savor Spear’s unique aging process and the inclusion of toasted oak staves contribute to its exceptional flavor profile. The judges at the competition praised its “perfect balance of character, nuanced sweetness, and downright geniality,” making it a top choice among bourbon enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition 2023 showcased some of the finest bourbons, with Savor Spear Straight Bourbon Whiskey leading the pack. Northwest Spirits and Buffalo Trace Distillery continue to set high standards in the industry, producing award-winning expressions that delight whiskey lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the top picks from this competition are definitely worth exploring.
