Discover the Denver International Spirits Competition
Welcome to the exciting world of the Denver International Spirits Competition (DISC), the largest spirits competition in The Rockies! This annual event brings together a variety of spirits, from whiskey and bourbon to tequila and vodka, in a thrilling contest of flavors and quality.
About the Denver International Spirits Competition
Held by the esteemed Wine Country Network, the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition took place in Broomfield, CO, from March 2nd to March 10th, 2024. Spirits from all over compete for prestigious medals: silver, gold, and double gold. Additionally, three spirits earn the coveted Best In Show awards.
Spotlight on Award-Winning American Whiskeys and Bourbons
Diving into the highlights, let’s explore the Double Gold and Best In Show winners from the American whiskey and bourbon categories. Our journey through these stellar spirits includes their tasting notes, histories, and where to find them.
William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery | Buffalo Trace |
Medal | Best of Show – 1st Place |
Tasting Notes | Dark brown sugar, vanilla bean, stewed cherry, brown sugar crumble |
This classic wheated bourbon, produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery, honors William Larue Weller, who innovated by using wheat instead of rye in the mash bill. The 2023 release aged for over 12 years and was bottled at a robust 133.6 proof.
Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery | Buffalo Trace |
Medal | Best of Show – 3rd Place |
Tasting Notes | Chocolate, brown sugar, rye spice, cherries, cloves, smoke |
Named after the bourbon legend George T. Stagg, this expression is known for its higher proof, making the rye spice notes particularly vibrant. Released in batches throughout the year, it’s a must-try for whiskey enthusiasts.
Copper Sky Distillery Switch Rail Single Malt
Located in Longmont, Colorado, Copper Sky Distillery was founded by entrepreneur and former Army veteran, Mike Root. The Switch Rail Single Malt, bottled at 90 proof and a Double Gold medalist at DISC 2023, remains somewhat mysterious but enticing.
Dunamis Interstellar Bourbon
With a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, Dunamis Interstellar Bourbon undergoes a unique filtration process. Founded by Sir Victor Young, this bourbon has gained significant recognition, snagging a Double Gold medal.
Stranahan’s Blue Peak American Single Malt Whiskey
Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey continues to shine with its Blue Peak single malt. Named after a mountain in Aspen, this whiskey is aged in American oak and finished in Solera casks, presenting a delightful sherry nuance.
Rocker Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Port Wine Barrels
Rocker Spirits in Littleton, CO, crafts their bourbon using a unique bottle inspired by a 1930s oil can. This bourbon, aged in port wine barrels, stands out not just for its award-winning taste but also its distinctive packaging.
Heaven’s Door Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Co-founded by music icon Bob Dylan, Heaven’s Door’s Ascension blends two Kentucky Straight Bourbons aged for over five years. This brand’s innovative Exploration Series adds a fascinating layer to their offerings.
Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. Single Barrel Bourbon Limited
The Single Barrel Bourbon from Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. is an impressive Double Gold medalist aged over nine years. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, this distillery also produces a variety of award-winning spirits.
Awards Season Hotspot
Spring and summer mark an exciting season for whiskey lovers, with numerous awards being hosted. Stay tuned to The Whiskey Wash for updates on new award winners and results from the whiskey competition circuits.
There you have it, the crème de la crème from the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition. If you’re a fan of bourbon awards and stellar whiskeys, these spirits are definitely worth exploring. Happy sipping!