Sports & Competition
The 16th International Whisky Competition Crowned The Worlds Best Bourbon And Its Not From Kentucky
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Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 3:06 GMT by Chowhound🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
A cask strength bourbon with apple, leather, and chocolate notes stole the top prize at the IWC, managing to break Kentucky's long winning streak.
Whisky World Celebrates Excellence: The 16th International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) Crowns its Best
The world of whisky is abuzz following the announcement of winners at the prestigious 16th International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), held in London. This year’s competition, a rigorous and highly respected benchmark for quality across the spirits industry, saw an unprecedented number of entries from around the globe, highlighting the continued growth and innovation within the whisky category. The results, revealed recently, showcase a diverse range of expressions, celebrating both established giants and emerging distilleries pushing the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship.
The IWSC isn't just about awarding medals; it’s a deeply analytical process. Judges, comprised of leading industry experts – master distillers, sommeliers, bartenders, spirits buyers, and writers – meticulously evaluate each entry based on a complex scoring system that considers aroma, palate, overall balance, and finish. Crucially, the competition emphasizes blind tasting, ensuring impartiality and focusing solely on the liquid's merits without any brand bias. This rigorous assessment process lends significant weight to the IWSC’s awards, making them highly sought after by distilleries worldwide.
This year’s top honor, the coveted “International Whisky Trophy,” was awarded to Glengoyne Distillery for their 18-year-old single malt. Glengoyne, a distillery steeped in tradition and known for its commitment to slow distillation and natural processes, has long been recognized for producing exceptional whisky. The 18-year-old’s victory underscores the enduring appeal of classic Highland style – characterized by notes of heather honey, dried fruit, and subtle spice – executed with remarkable precision and depth. The judges praised the expression's complexity, balance, and lingering finish, highlighting its ability to represent the Glengoyne distillery ethos perfectly.
Beyond the top prize, several other whiskies garnered significant recognition across various categories. Japanese whisky continues its reign of excellence, with Suntory’s Yamazaki 12 Year Old securing a Gold Outstanding medal. This reflects the ongoing global fascination with Japanese craftsmanship and the nuanced flavor profiles that distinguish their expressions – often showcasing delicate floral notes alongside subtle oak influence. The Yamazaki 12's consistent success in international competitions reinforces its position as an iconic whisky, demonstrating the enduring appeal of its carefully balanced character.
Irish whiskey also made a strong showing, with Redbreast 15 Year Old Cask Strength earning a Gold Outstanding medal. This particular expression exemplifies the resurgence of Irish single pot still whiskies – a style characterized by their rich, spicy complexity and full-bodied flavor. Redbreast’s success highlights the growing appreciation for this traditional production method and the unique character it imparts to the final product. The Cask Strength bottling, presented at a higher alcohol content, allows drinkers to experience the whisky's unadulterated intensity and depth of flavor.
The competition wasn't solely dominated by established names. Several smaller, independent distilleries also received accolades, demonstrating the dynamism and innovation within the industry. These victories underscore the growing trend towards craft distilling, where producers prioritize experimentation with different barley varieties, cask finishes, and maturation techniques. The IWSC provides a vital platform for these emerging brands to gain recognition and reach a wider audience.
The awards also highlighted regional variations in whisky styles. Scotch whiskies from Speyside, known for their fruity and approachable character, performed strongly, as did those from the Islands, often exhibiting smoky or maritime influences. This diversity reflects the unique terroir of each region – the combination of climate, soil, and water – which significantly impacts the flavor profile of the resulting whisky.
The IWSC’s commitment to sustainability and responsible production was also evident this year. The competition increasingly emphasizes ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly practices, reflecting a growing consumer demand for transparency and accountability within the spirits industry. Distilleries demonstrating a dedication to sustainable operations were recognized alongside their quality achievements, signaling a shift towards a more holistic approach to whisky production.
Ultimately, the 16th International Wine & Spirit Competition serves as a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of whisky and the remarkable skill and passion of those who craft it. The awards celebrate not only exceptional liquid but also the traditions, innovation, and evolving values that define this beloved spirit. The Glengoyne 18-year-old’s triumph is a fitting culmination of a competition showcasing the breadth and depth of excellence within the global whisky landscape, promising continued excitement and discovery for enthusiasts worldwide.
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