American bourbon reaffirmed its global standing at the IWSC 2025, where four labels earned the coveted Spirit Gold Outstanding medal — the competition’s top honour, awarded only to spirits scoring 98 points. Six more bourbons placed in the 95-point tier, giving the category near-total dominance among the event’s top ten.
Judges praised the winners for their complexity, balance, and distinctive flavour profiles, noting that they showcased both Kentucky’s time-honoured methods and modern innovation. “Each of the top-scoring spirits shared a complexity and well-roundedness, but also something surprising,” said judge Frank Dobbins III.
Dr. Bill Lumsden underlined what defined the standouts: “The best entries had superb complexity, great balance, and very interesting taste profiles.” Judge Millie Milliken added that “being well balanced, surprising or just a brilliant rendition on their category helped set leading entries apart.”
Bourbon is made primarily from corn — at least 51% — and aged in new charred oak barrels, which impart its signature richness and smoothness. With notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, it has long embodied both America’s distilling heritage and global appeal.
Kentucky once again dominated, producing eight of the top ten bourbons. The state’s limestone-rich water and ideal climate continue to underpin its reputation as the world’s premier bourbon region. Yet it wasn’t the only star: entries from Tennessee and Arkansas also broke into the top ranks, impressing judges with high-rye mash bills and bold barrel-aging styles that demonstrated bourbon’s growing regional diversity.
This year’s winners also revealed a sweet spot in alcohol strength. Most fell between 46% and 55% ABV, a range judges said consistently delivered balance, complexity, and length. “High-scoring spirits stood out for their balance, stylistic clarity and integration of maturity,” noted judge Reece Sims. “Whether bold or restrained, they felt complete.”
From soft, wheat-driven expressions to spicier high-rye bottlings, the IWSC results underscored bourbon’s breadth. For consumers, the message is clear: no matter the style, bourbon continues to produce some of the world’s most compelling spirits.
Here are the top winners:
Spirit Gold Outstanding Winners (98 points):
1. Bulleit Frontier Whiskey – Barrel Strength Whiskey, Kentucky
Delicate aromas of orange blossom and sweet apricot jam, revealing honeysuckle, hard caramel, and white pepper with captivating smooth sweetness
2. Frank August – Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Apple tart and custard aromas with buckwheat honey, dried apricots, vanilla, and warm spice, finishing with satisfying leather notes
3. King’s Family Distillery – Tennessee Standard Blended Bourbon Whiskey
Glazed popcorn and sweet oak opening into rich plum with delicate yellow flower notes – harmonious and sophisticated
4. Praedictum – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Deep fudge and roasted hazelnut aromas with beeswax and brown butter, bursting with juicy peach and raspberry
Spirit Gold Winners (95 points):
1. Rock Town Distillery – Bourbon Y’all Whiskey, Arkansas:
Vanilla and blood orange oil aromas with complex marzipan, cedar, and baking spices
2. Frank August – Case Study: 05 Wheated Reserve, Kentucky:
Fresh floral vanilla with cedar and toffee, revealing cinnamon, milk chocolate, and nutmeg
3. Heaven Hill Distillery – Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon:
Crème brûlée, crisp apple, and green banana with jammy orchard fruits and shortbread biscuits
4. Heaven Hill Distillery – Grain To Glass Traditional Barrel Series Wheated Bourbon:
Rich leather with black cherry sweetness, unfolding cooked pineapple, Brazil nut, and toffee
5. 15 Stars – First West Extra Aged Whiskey, Kentucky:
Baked fruits with rose and fresh greenery, displaying savoury olive, leather, and bay leaf
6. 15 Stars – First West Small Batch Whiskey, Kentucky:
Vibrant red berries with confectioner’s sugar, revealing chestnut honey, fresh almond, and tea
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