Insights

The 16th International Whisky Competition took place in Louisville, Kentucky, marking a significant event for bourbon enthusiasts and producers alike. This yearly competition, which began in 2016, has evolved to become a reputable platform resembling the world-famous Michelin guides but focused on whisky. To prevent palate fatigue during the judging, panel members taste each whisky individually, documenting their observations and experiences regarding each spirit's appearance, aroma, and flavor profile. At the end of the process, a panel of experts reviews the detailed notes before assigning a score out of 100 to each whisky, ensuring a thorough evaluation. In this latest edition, the competition crowned a 10-year-old cask strength bourbon from a Virginia distillery with ties to Buffalo Trace as its best bourbon. This expression, known as A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength, features an impressive proof of 139.7, or 69.85% ABV. Despite its high alcohol content, the bourbon is characterized by sophisticated aromas of dried cherry and vanilla that elegantly mask the ethanol heat. The feature that truly sets this bourbon apart is its complex finish, which reveals layers of br�l�ed stone fruit and tanned leather, delivering a memorable experience with each sip. The bourbon's robust flavor profile delivers a testament to quality while defying the expectations set by its high proof. A. Smith Bowman Distillery's unique offerings have roots that date back to the end of Prohibition, highlighting a long-standing dedication to craftsmanship and tradition within the industry. The winning bourbon had also been noted for being uncut and non-chill filtered, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to preserving the essence of their spirits. At a suggested retail price of $99, bourbon lovers are encouraged not to hesitate in purchasing a bottle should they have the opportunity, as there are limited allocations available due to the high demand that accompanies a prestigious award like this. The honor from the International Whisky Competition signifies a pivotal moment for A. Smith Bowman Distillery, reinforcing their position within the bourbon landscape and attracting the attention of enthusiasts and collectors alike. By winning this notable award, the distillery has strengthened its reputation while also contributing to Kentucky’s storied heritage in producing world-class spirits.