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Forbes
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The World's Best Wheated Bourbon, According To The Beverage Test Inst
Glasses of bourbon whiskey for a whiskey tasting getty Wheated whiskeys continue to captivate bourbon lovers with their smooth, approachable character—and at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) judging, these expressions shone. One wheated bourbon was awarded a Platinum medal and 97 points as the best wheated bourbon in this year's judging, and eight were awarded prestigious Gold medals. Below is a brief background on each award-winning whiskey, including official tasting notes and production details that highlight the artistry behind America's finest wheated bourbons. This bourbon is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, Kentucky, from a mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. Unfiltered, this cask strength expression of Larceny is released in three batches annually. Batch A125 was the first release of 2025. The bourbon scored 95 points and was the highest-ranked wheated bourbon in the 2025 BevTest judging. The bourbon features aromas of vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon rolls, and baked apple. The palate is bold yet smooth, showcasing flavors of caramel, fig jam, toffee, and clove. The finish is long and spicy with lingering notes of oak char, peanut brittle, and baking spice. The BevTest Judging Panel described the bourbon as featuring 'aromas of pear spice cake, wildflower honey, and lychee, along with flavors of cinnamon honey, dried apples, and hay. Spicy, complex, and fruity, with a long, balanced wildflower honey-pipe tobacco finish.' Produced at Heaven Hill Distillery, this straight wheat whiskey is based on a mash bill of 51% wheat, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley. Since the corn portion is less than 50%, it is not a bourbon, although it shares many bourbon features. Bottled at cask strength and non-chill filtered, this is the barrel-proof version of Bernheim's wheat whiskey. Batch A225 is the first release of 2025. The whiskey features aromas of butterscotch, cooked cereal/grain, honeyed toast, and vanilla. It's smooth and silky on the palate, showcasing flavors of toasted hazelnut, maple syrup, coconut, cinnamon sugar, and seasoned oak. The finish is long, sweet, and creamy with lingering notes of black pepper, caramel, and cooked grain. The BevTest Judging Panel described the wheat whiskey as expressing 'aromas of caramelized nuts, creme brûlée, and orange peel along with flavors of Thai chilies, coconut cinnamon candy, and scorched caramel: a silky, but ferocious overproof Wheated Whiskey, smooth coconut and caramel with toasty warm finish.' Bernheim 7-Year-Old Small Batch Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey, 45% ABV, 750 ml. 94 points, Gold Medal $33 This wheat whiskey is an aged version of the cask strength expression, bottled at 45% It's one of the few age-stated wheat whiskeys in the U.S. First released in the early 2000s, its availability has steadily expanded. The whiskey presents aromas of caramel, banana bread, vanilla wafer, and cooked cereal/grain. It's smooth on the palate, showcasing flavors of honeycomb, toasted almond, and mild spice. The finish is medium length and creamy, with lingering notes of vanilla custard and seasoned oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing 'aromas of maple, coconut, and honey butter biscuits along with flavors of buttered popcorn, almond butter cookie, and pecan coffee cake. Warm, silky, and balanced with bakery flavors all day, it makes a stellar Old Fashioned.' glasses of whiskey making toast Getty Larceny Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. 94 points, Gold Medal $27 Another Larceny expression from Heaven Hill, this bourbon uses the distillery's standard wheated bourbon mash bill. It's designed as a wheated counterpart to Elijah Craig. This small batch release does not carry an age statement, but it is usually a blend of barrels aged for six to twelve years. The bourbon features aromas of sweet corn, fresh bread, vanilla frosting, and a touch of cocoa. It's smooth and creamy on the palate, showcasing flavors of butterscotch, caramel, cinnamon candy, peanuts, and orange zest. The finish is long, sweet, and slightly drying with lingering caramel and oak spices. The BevTest Judging Panel described the bourbon as featuring 'aromas of roasted apricot, vanilla, and blood orange peel along with flavors of caramelized pear, vanilla wafer, and cola. Balanced and flavorful - would add tremendous depth to a Paper Plane cocktail.' Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch No. B525, 58.7% ABV, 750 ml. 93 points, Gold Medal. $64 This wheated bourbon is the second of three annual barrel-proof Larceny batches for 2025. It uses Heaven Hill's standard wheated mash bill, is bottled at cask strength, and non-chill filtered. The bourbon features aromas of brown sugar, graham cracker, molasses, and black cherry. It's full-bodied on the palate, showcasing flavors of fig preserves, chocolate fudge, baking spices, and toasted oak. The finish is long, powerful, and drying with lingering notes of seasoned oak, cinnamon, and old leather. The BevTest Judging Panel described the bourbon as exhibiting 'aromas of hickory honey, maple glazed peanuts, and assorted wood spices along with flavors of brown butter, cinnamon walnut toast, and kettle corn. Warm, rich, spicy with notes of maple, peanuts, and dried honey, finishing with candied orange zest.' Old Fitzgerald 7-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. 93 points, Gold Medal. $64 Part of the biannual Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series, the bourbon uses Heaven Hill's standard wheated bourbon mash bill, is aged for 7 years, is bottled at 100 proof, and meets all Bottled-in-Bond requirements. The bourbon features aromas of honeycomb, apricot jam, baked spice cake, and vanilla bean. It's elegant on the palate with a layered complexity that showcases flavors of golden raisin, shortbread, cinnamon, and toasted marshmallow. The finish is smooth, slightly sweet, and balanced, showcasing lingering notes of nutmeg, seasoned oak, and a subtle molasses sweetness. Also winning Gold Medals with 91 points each were Castle & Key Small Batch Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Heaven Hill 'Grain To Glass' Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, and Play Like A Champion Today 5 Year Kentucky Double Oaked Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The 2025 BevTest results underscore the enduring appeal and versatility of wheated bourbons and whiskeys, from bold barrel-proof expressions to elegant bottled-in-bond releases. Whether crafted for sipping neat or for mixing in refined cocktails, each of these Gold medalists reflects the nuanced sweetness, rich texture, and balance that make wheated bourbons a standout within the broader whiskey landscape. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, these award-winning whiskeys offer a compelling journey into the softer side of American bourbon. More From Forbes Forbes America's Top-Rated Wheated Bourbons And Whiskeys: Smooth, Bold And Affordable By Joseph V Micallef Forbes America's Top Bourbon—According To The Beverage Testing Institute By Joseph V Micallef
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
America's Top Bourbon—According To The Beverage Testing Institute
A bottle of Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Photo, courtesy Heaven Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch No. A125 was America's top-ranked bourbon at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) bourbon judging. The whiskey scored 97/100 points and was awarded a Platinum Medal. Below is a background on the bourbon, as well as a detailed tasting note along with the official BevTest evaluation. Larceny Barrel Proof is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. America's largest family-run spirit producer, the Larceny expressions continue a legacy rooted in the iconic 'Old Fitzgerald' mash bill lineage. This expression is released three times annually—January, May, and September. Batch A125 is the January 2025 edition, with 'A' denoting the first release of the year, '1' for January, and '25' for the year. The whiskey is based on the standard Larceny and Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond series mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. The 20% wheat in the mash bill classifies the whiskey as a 'wheated bourbon,' although there is no legal definition of a wheated bourbon from the TTB. The whiskey does not carry an age statement but is believed to be aged between 6 and 8 years. It's bottled at cask strength, usually around 62.5% ABV or 125 proof. It's non-chill filtered and uncut, bottled straight from the cask, allowing bourbon enthusiasts to experience true barrel character. The whiskey is a deep amber with a reddish glow, a rich hue typical of bourbons aged in warmer rickhouse locations. On the nose, the whiskey features aromas of maple-glazed French toast, butterscotch/toffee, overripe orchard and tropical fruit, and seasoned oak. As the bourbon opens up, additional aromas of yeasty, tangy unbaked sourdough bread, cornmeal cake, and baking spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove emerge. It's rich and smooth on the palate with a viscous mouth-coating quality and a pronounced mouth weight. It's remarkably well-balanced and silky for such a high-proof whiskey. Flavor-wise, the bourbon opens with caramel and brown sugar, transitioning to ginger cookies, dried cherries, roasted nuts, and candied pecans, followed by fig preserves/jam, nougat, hints of cold smoke, and a pronounced barrel char. As the whiskey evolves, notes of baked peach dusted with cinnamon, with a hint of allspice and cardamom, along with savory notes of cornbread and sourdough bread, emerge on the mid-palate. There is also a slight but persistent tanginess. The finish is long and spicy and slightly candied, featuring lingering notes of cinnamon candy, pink bubblegum, caramel, baking spices—especially clove—and seasoned oak. A few drops of water open the bourbon beautifully, bringing forward pronounced notes of sweetness from the wood sugars and caramel, and giving the whiskey an even silkier and rounder tasting experience. The BevTest Judging Panel described the bourbon as featuring aromas of 'Rainier cherry, wood-grilled peach, and caramelized fig, along with flavors of baklava gelato, espresso pecan tart, and buttered broiled peaches. Bold, unique blend of coffee, sherry, and chocolate—a tsunami of flavor—a perfect Bourbon to sip and repeat neat.' Larceny Barrel Proof Batch A125 is a remarkable expression of Heaven Hill's wheated heritage, capturing bold, concentrated layers of sweetness, spice, and oak in its purest, barrel-strength form. Its complex nose, rich mid-palate, and spicy, enduring finish make it an engaging sip, especially when a small amount of water is added to reveal nuance. At a list price of $64, and often found on sale below $50, it's an exceptional value for what is one of America's top bourbons. Whether you're drawn to wheated bourbons or seeking a powerful yet balanced high-proof experience, Batch A125 stands out as both classic and compelling. More From Forbes Forbes America's Top-Rated Wheated Bourbons And Whiskeys: Smooth, Bold And Affordable By Joseph V Micallef Forbes America's Top Bourbon, According To The International Wine & Spirit Competition By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The World's Best Wheated Bourbon, According To The San Francisco World Spirits Competition By Joseph V Micallef
Forbes
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The World's Best Tequila—According To The 2025 World Spirits Championships
Tears Of Llorona Small Batch Extra Añejo Tequila The Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) is a 44-year-old organization committed to providing comprehensive, expert-led sensory evaluations for beer, spirits, cider, sake, and even mead. Panelists employ a scientific-degree of analysis to come away with professional-grade results. When it comes to hard liquor, specifically, it is constantly updating its scores across all major categories throughout the calendar year. This June BevTest revealed its winners for tequila as part of an annual evaluation it aptly dubs the 'World Spirits Championships.' The top scoring bottle--earning an impressive 96 out of 100 possible points--was a small batch extra añejo from ultra-premium brand Tears of Llorona. Today we're going to take a closer look at that exact expression to understand what makes it so exceptional. Let's start off by seeing what the folks at BevTest had to say. Here are the tasting notes provided on the company's website: The batch of 86-proof spirit they sampled was on May 29th of this year. As we stated before, the judges are quite methodical in their approach. But even using measured, scientific language, the brilliance of the juice shines through in their effusive praise. The expression, formally known as Tears of Llorona No. 3, is a lowland tequila crafted by master distiller Germán González Gorrochotegui at the Tequileña distillery (NOM 1146). This is the same vaunted facility responsible for other top shelf expressions of agave spirit from brands including Cierto, Don Fulcano, and ArteNOM. Gorrochotegui separates his product from the pack by using a combination of barrels seasoned with three separate types of alcohol: scotch, brandy and sherry. The industry standard is typically ex-bourbon; both cheaper and more-widely available than the aforementioned casks. By bearing the extra effort (and cost) to source this speciality cooperage he comes away with a rich and sophisticated sipping spirit that carries many of the leather-laden characteristics you might suspect from Speyside Scotch or XO Cognac. Another way in which the liquid mines those deep flavors is by resting for an extended period of time in the luxe barrels. In order to be labeled an extra añejo a tequila must spend a minimum of 3 years in oak. Tears of Llorona matures for upwards of five. And yes, the oak extraction is pronounced as a consequence. Its finish is long and lush, painting the palate with broad brushstrokes of butterscotch and cinnamon. But there are still filaments of herbaceous agave earth to ponder--particularly in the nose of this tequila. The product's name refers to a popular Latin-American ghost story of a grieving woman who wanders the land, shedding endless tears for the loss of her two young sons. The tale is frequently told as a cautionary one to children to discourage them from staying out too late at night. For the tequila, it's also meant to represent the tears of the angels; agave spirit that evaporates from the barrel during that lengthy maturation process. As much as 50% of the liquid can vanish after 5 years in this climate--quite a sad story, indeed. And so the care and patience of Gorrochotegui's craft comes at an elevated cost, of course. A bottle of his top-scoring spirit retails for $230. But it's also offered in a unique 1-liter decanter, notably larger than the 750ml standard for distilled spirits. Too much of a good thing? Hardly. After sampling this 96-point belter the only tears to speak of will be your own, after you reach the end of the glass. A Jimador (person who works on the agave plant) holds an agave pineapple on a field in Tequila, ... More Jalisco state, Mexico, on July 23, 2021, amid the International Tequila Day. (Photo by Ulises RUIZ / AFP) (Photo by ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images)
Forbes
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Top Extra Anejo Tequila, According To The Beverage Testing Inst.
Extra Añejo Tequila with lime and salt. Four Extra Añejo Tequilas and three Cristalino Tequilas were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Tequila Judging. Tears of Llorona Small Batch Extra Añejo Tequila was the top-ranked Extra Añejo and the only Platinum medal winner among Tequilas. 1800 Cristalino Tequila Añejo was the top-ranked Cristalino Tequila. Below is a brief background on each of the gold medalists, along with the official BevTest tasting notes on the Tequilas. Score: 96 - Platinum Medal–Superlative Crafted by Master Distiller Germán González, Tears of Llorona is a luxury, small-batch Extra Añejo Tequila matured in Sherry, Scotch, and brandy barrels. It's widely praised for its rare complexity and depth and has been a perennial winner in international spirit competitions. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'root beer, coffee grounds, and tobacco, followed by flavors of oak, peach- fig cobbler, and anise. Vibrant, decadent, and wildly nuanced, and still easily identifiable as agave-forward Tequila.' Score: 94 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Crafted by Casa Cuervo, Milenio is aged in French oak Cognac barrels. This elegant extra añejo is designed for special occasions and delivers layered, dessert-like richness. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'dark caramelized nuts, chocolate coconut bar, and vanilla frosting, followed by flavors of chocolate orange peels, delicate spices, and creme brulee with powdered sugar. A tasty and very well-balanced Extra Añejo that is sure to please.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Alquimia Reserva de Don Adolfo VI is an estate-grown organic Extra Añejo Tequila. It offers richness, balance, and subtle influences of tropical and orchard fruits. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'cinnamon, grass, and balsa wood accompanied by flavors of salted caramel, baked orchard fruit, and pineapple skin. Rich and inviting with lovely, dried citrus that balances the rich flavors that are beautifully balanced for Tequila Old Fashioneds or after-dinner sipping.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional This cask strength Extra Añejo from Alquimia is bold and intense. It's bottled at full barrel proof and aimed at seasoned Tequila drinkers looking for robust flavor and structure. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'warm maple syrup, Demerara with chopped nuts, and baker's chocolate, followed by flavors of dark chocolate, cigar ash, and sandalwood. A bold and intense Extra Añejo sipper.' 1800 Tequila Holiday Dinner With Designer & Curator Greg Yuna(Photo byfor 1800 Tequila) Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Produced by Casa Cuervo, 1800 Cristalino is a charcoal-filtered Añejo Tequila that removes color while retaining complex flavors. It combines the aging process of an Extra Añejo with crisp modern appeal. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'coconut dulce de leche, heated stones, and fresh ream of paper with flavors of chipotle, parmesan, and cream cheese. The complexity of an Extra Anejo in a crisp, tailored white Armani suit, stylish and grounded in high-quality agave.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Patrón's Cristalino blends aged complexity with polished smoothness. It undergoes charcoal filtration to remove color while preserving flavors from ex-bourbon barrels. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'white pepper, caramel, and agave fibers accompanied by flavors of preserved lemon, vanilla salt, and crème anglaise. Impeccably balanced and clean with notes of cultured salted butter, extra virgin olive oil, vanilla, and fresh biscuits.' Score: 91 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Agavales Cristalino is a filtered Reposado that offers a bright, tropical profile with the roundness of brief oak aging and the clarity of a Blanco. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'spring, coconut water, and roasted coconut flakes on frosted white cake with flavors of spicy banana bread pudding, pepper, and white chocolate. A supple, vibrantly flavorful Cristalino with excellent versatility.' These seven Tequilas showcase a range of aroma and flavor profiles. The Extra Añejo expressions offer a classic aged Tequila profile that retains its agave core, surrounded by the added complexity and flavors provided by extended oak aging. The Cristalinos, on the other hand, while retaining the agave and oak influence, also offer a cleaner, fresher style that blends a layered, nuanced complexity with a lighter, crisper style. If you like brown spirits, all of these Extra Añejo Tequilas deserve a place on your shelf. If you're looking for a lighter style that still retains the complexity afforded by oak aging, consider exploring the Cristalino expressions. Either way, you won't go wrong with any of these Tequila bottles.
Forbes
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Top Reposado Tequila, According To The Beverage Testing Institute
A shot glass of Reposado Tequila with salt and lime getty Eight Reposado Tequilas were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Tequila Judging. Tequila Ocho Reposado was the top-rated reposado Tequila. Below is a brief background on each of the gold medalists, along with the official BevTest tasting notes on the Top Reposado Tequilas. Score: 95 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Tequila Ocho is crafted by Carlos Camarena at Tequilera Los Alambiques in Arandas, located in the Jalisco Highlands. Known for pioneering the single-estate tequila movement, Ocho is deeply committed to terroir-driven expressions of agave. Their reposado tequilas rest briefly in used American oak to preserve agave character while gaining subtle richness. A process that Camarena describes as 'being kissed by the oak.' The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of vegetal agave, delicate oak, and brown banana, followed by marzipan, purple fruits, and white blossoms. Subtle floral notes come through the spicy agave elements in this remarkable, elegant Reposado.' Score: 94 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Produced at El Pandillo distillery by Felipe Camarena, G4 Reposado is recognized for its distinctive water blend, comprising 50% rainwater and 50% spring water. G4 emphasizes mineral purity and pronounced agave flavor. The reposado is aged in used bourbon barrels to develop depth while retaining crisp agave notes. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of grilled pomelo, white chocolate, and pastry, followed by flavors of salted cashews, caramel, and cinnamon bark. With the complexity and layered flavors of an Añejo and the minerally citrusy agave shining brightly through of a Blanco, this reposado is the best of both worlds and will elevate any well-constructed cocktail.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional El Ateo is a boutique tequila brand known for its edgy branding and artisanal quality. Its reposado is aged in American oak and prized for its creamy texture and gently spicy finish. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of caramel, sandalwood, and limestone, followed by flavors of Fresno chili, light roast coffee, and maple pancakes. Warm, satisfying and lightly spicy, this reposado will add a punch to your margarita and light on its feet richness.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Seis Puertas blends tradition with contemporary flavor profiles. Known for their commitment to sustainable agave farming and local craft, their reposado strikes a balance between freshness and depth. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of limestone, citrus zest, and dried flowers with additional flavors of caramel corn, mango yogurt, and spiced pecans. On the verge of Añejo smoothness and complexity, this Tequila maintains its agave essence - a must-have for a fresh-squeezed lime and agave nectar Margarita.' A bottle of Reposado Tequila and shot glasses. getty Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Patrón El Alto is a premium Tequila that showcases meticulous blending and extended barrel aging. Combining highland agave and ex-bourbon cask influence, it emphasizes fruity and floral complexity with a smooth finish. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of candied orange, jammy fruits, and vanilla, followed by flavors of apricots, lavender, and coconuts. Delicious and balanced agave and oak notes elevate this reposado to a pleasing sipper. Score: 91 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Distilled at Destilería Cascahuín, Siempre is a contemporary brand that showcases creative cask blending, pushing the style boundaries of Reposado Tequila. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of caramel cake, roasted tropical fruits, and cumin accompanied by flavors of caramelized nuts, flan with cayenne, and sweet spices. A robust, flavor-packed reposado with nice depth, length, and warmth.' Score: 90 - Gold Medal–Exceptional 4 Copas was one of the first certified organic Tequilas. Emphasizing organic agave cultivation and minimal intervention, their reposado is aged in American oak barrels for a natural expression of agave and spice. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of toasted oats, crushed nuts, and white tea with additional flavors of grilled pineapple, pepper, and date syrup. Toasted nuts, salted caramel, and crisp Granny Smith apples flavors will add a delightful richness to a hand-shaken agave-lime Margarita.' Score: 90 - Gold Medal–Exceptional One of the oldest and most iconic names in Tequila, Jose Cuervo's Tradicional Reposado offers a historic connection to 18th-century Tequila making. This expression is aged in American oak for several months to add flavor complexity while maintaining its core agave character. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of burnt sugar, apple compote, and Graham crackers, followed by brown sugar, pink peppercorn, and peanut brittle—a straightforward Reposado with sweet agave and oak notes that enhance the drinking experience. Reposados are among the most intriguing Tequilas available, offering a delicate balance between the vegetative and herbaceous profile of a Blanco, while also providing the complexity and expanded aroma and flavor profile of oak aging. Reposados can be more Blanco-like or more Anejo-like depending on the degree of oak aging. These Reposados are outstanding, offering a broad array of aroma and flavor profiles that range from the fruity and mineral-induced terroirs of the highlands to the vegetative and herbaceous character of lowland agave. Regardless of your taste, you are bound to find a Reposado Tequila that suits your palate.
