American whiskeys dominated the whisky category at the 8th annual International London Spirits Competition (ILSC), securing top honors for several bourbon expressions. The competition, held in 2025, attracted thousands of submissions from over 30 countries, highlighting the exceptional quality of American whiskeys.
Sid Patel, CEO of ILSC, shared that this year’s judging panel consisted of more than 70 top industry experts, including Master Distillers, Blenders, Mixologists, and elite buyers. Notable judges included Dr. Emma Walker, Master Blender at Johnnie Walker, and Craig Wallace, Whisky Creation Leader at Diageo.
W. L. Weller Antique 107 was awarded 2025’s Spirit of the Year and Best Spirit by Quality. This wheated bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery stands out for its robust expression and connection to the renowned Pappy Van Winkle. At 107 proof (53.5% ABV), it features dark fruit, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel, and oak aromas, with a full-bodied palate of cherry, toffee, and baking spices. Its smooth, creamy texture and long, spicy finish make it one of the world’s top whiskeys, though it’s hard to find and often sold at a premium.
Lancaster’s Ale Cask Rare Bourbon, a limited-release 6-year-old straight bourbon, took home Straight Bourbon of the Year. Aged in American white oak and finished for over a year in ale casks that previously held Scottish-style Wee Heavy Ale, this bourbon offers a unique profile. The bourbon is smooth with vanilla, toasted oak, praline pecan, and caramelized fruit flavors, complemented by malted sweetness from the ale casks. Bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV), this release showcases Lancaster Craft Spirits’ creativity in barrel finishing.
Sazerac’s 1792 Single Barrel Bourbon earned the title of Single Barrel Bourbon of the Year. Known for its high-rye mash bill, each bottle is sourced from a hand-selected barrel, giving it distinct flavor characteristics. The bourbon features vanilla, caramel, oak, and subtle notes of chocolate, plum, and pastry. It’s full-bodied, with a finish of fudge, nutmeg, and hazelnut. Priced around $40–$50, it’s a standout bourbon for those seeking quality at an accessible price.
Maker’s Mark’s Star Hill Farm Whisky, the distillery’s first wheat whisky in over 70 years, was named Wheat Whisky of the Year. This expression is made from a blend of estate-grown grains, including soft red winter wheat and malted barley. Bottled at 114.7 proof (57.35% ABV), the whisky is aged seven to eight years and is expected to be released in May 2025. It’s a high-quality product that emphasizes sustainable farming and local sourcing.
Sazerac’s Early Times, a bourbon-based whiskey aged in both new and used oak barrels, took home Blended American Whiskey of the Year. Though classified as American whiskey, it retains strong bourbon characteristics.
Other notable winners included Templeton Rye Whiskey Single Barrel (Rye Whiskey of the Year), Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey (Tennessee Whiskey of the Year), and Uncle Nearest Single Barrel Whiskey Batch 905 (Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year).
The 2025 ILSC highlighted the range and quality of American whiskey, from legacy brands to innovative craft expressions. These top-tier whiskeys are definitely worth exploring, especially for those seeking new and unique flavors in the world of American spirits.
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