Latest news with #BevTestJudgingPanel
Forbes
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
2025's Best Single Malt Irish Whiskeys According To BevTest
Knappogue Castle 21 YO was the highest rated Irish Single Malt Whiskey at the 2025 BevTest Judging Photo, J Micallef The 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Irish whiskey judging has announced the top Irish whiskeys of the year. One exceptional Irish single malt whiskey received a prestigious Platinum medal, while four other single malts and two single grain whiskeys earned Gold medals. If you're looking for the best Irish single malt or award-winning grain whiskey, these top-rated whiskeys are your essential starting point. A limited-edition blend of ex-bourbon and sherry cask-matured malts aged for 21 years, showcasing the brand's excellence in single malt blending. The whiskey received 96 points and a Platinum medal, the highest score for any single malt whiskey. On the nose, the whiskey offers aromas of dried apricot, toasted almond, candied citrus, and seasoned oak. The palate is rich and flavorful, with a layered complexity showcasing flavors of cooked cereal, honey, dried fruits, leather, and oak spices. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of Sherry, nutmeg, and oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'brown butter, dried apricots, and fudge. The palate reveals flavors of baked walnuts, ginger, and pear compote. Rich and balanced, with notes of spice and baked goods, complemented by brown butter and pear.' Another single malt from Knappogue Castle, one of Ireland's top whiskey makers. The whiskey is non-chill-filtered and aged in ex-bourbon barrels. It received a score of 94/100 points and a gold medal. The whiskey features aromas of green apple, vanilla, and ripe tropical fruit. It's fruity on the palate, revealing flavors of orchard and tropical fruits, lemon curd, and creamy caramel. The finish is medium-length, with lingering notes of candied citrus zest and subtle oak spices. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'apple spice cake, cinnamon toast, and marigold. The palate presents similar flavors with hints of allspice, spiced apples, and nasturtium. If you're looking for the definition of 'pot still whiskey,' this is it – hits every note and then some.' A glass of Irish whiskey on the rocks with a cigar. getty Knappogue Castle 16-Year-Old Sherry Cask-Finished Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% Abv. 750 ml. $115 Aged for 14 years in bourbon casks and finished in Oloroso Sherry casks for 2 years, this expression combines sweetness with rich sherry notes. It scored 94/100 points and earned a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of golden raisins, toasted walnuts, dark chocolate, and wood spices. The palate is full-bodied and smooth, featuring flavors of toffee, dried figs, red berries, roasted nuts, and Sherry notes. The finish is long and luxurious, with lingering notes of dried fruit and oak. The Bev Test Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'spiced butter, Banana Foster, and pound cake. The palate features flavors of apple buckwheat pancakes, peach-fig-pecan pie, and vanilla ice cream. It has a bold, peach-forward style with spiced bakery notes—like warm treats fresh from the oven; a whiskey best enjoyed on the rocks or in an elevated Old Fashioned.' Method and Madness 14-Year-Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $97 This limited-edition whiskey from Midleton combines traditional Irish single malt distillation with a French Limousin oak finish. The whiskey earned a gold medal with a score of 92 out of 100. The whiskey features aromas of lemon oil, white pepper, coconut, and poached pear. It's flavorful, creamy, and herbal on the palate, with notes of fresh citrus, cooked cereal, clove, and seasoned oak. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering hints of lemon custard, wood spices, and vanilla. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'kettle corn, vanilla pudding, and toasted almonds. The palate presents flavors of honey, walnut shavings, and buttered popcorn. It is light and bright with delicate flavors and fresh vanilla bean notes, ideal for cocktails.' Knappogue Castle 12-Year-Old Bourbon Cask-Matured Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml. $69 Aged entirely in ex-bourbon barrels, this is Knappogue Castle's flagship, known for its clean, fruit-forward character and classic Irish malt style. This expression earned a gold medal with a score of 92/100. The whiskey exhibits aromas of honey, fresh apple, vanilla, and cooked cereal. It's light and elegant on the palate, highlighting ripe orchard fruit, toasted cereal, and baking spices. The finish is long, crisp, and balanced, with lingering sweetness and subtle oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'cinnamon multigrain toast, peach, and sugar cookie. The palate features frosted honey buns, baking spices, and black tea with milk & honey. Ripe and addictingly sippable with warm, comforting flavors.' The Midleton Distillery Experience at the Midleton Distillery where Method & Madness is produced. getty Method and Madness Single Grain Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml $59 Crafted at the Midleton Micro Distillery, this experimental expression showcases a corn-based single grain whiskey aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in virgin Spanish oak. The whiskey earned a gold medal and received a score of 95/100 points. The whiskey exhibits aromas of freshly sawn oak, vanilla cream, citrus zest, and candy corn. It's sweet and smooth on the palate, revealing flavors of honey, cooked cereal, toasted coconut, apricot, and subtle wood spices. The finish is long and brisk, with lingering notes of vanilla and gentle pepper. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'baguette, plum crème Anglaise, and caramelized pear. Flavors: The palate features similar flavors with hints of crème caramel, marzipan, and wildflower honey. Rich, caramelized, and velvety with a long, complex, dry finish, you can taste the freshness of the Irish grains - enjoy neat or on a single rock with a dash of fine bitters.' Powers Irish Rye Whiskey, 43.2% ABV, 750 ml. Introduced in 2022, this is Ireland's first modern 100% Irish rye whiskey. It's produced at Midleton Distillery using a mash bill of 100% Irish-grown rye and aged in virgin oak. The rye whiskey received a score of 93/100 points and earned a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of earthy rye spice, apple, honey, and nutmeg. It's rich and flavorful on the palate, revealing notes of cooked cereal, rye toast, rye spices—especially clove, white pepper, and toffee. The finish is long, dry, and peppery, with a hint of cinnamon and a sweet cereal note. The BevTest Judging panel described the whiskey as featuring aromas of 'roasted candied walnuts, chocolate, and cherry crème brûlée. The palate showcases flavors of cinnamon toast, ripe apple, and nutmeg cider. Warm and delightfully complex, this blended Irish will turn heads as it over-delivers with wood-roasted, fruity, and lightly spiced flavors.' Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply looking for the best Irish whiskey to try in 2025, these award-winning expressions offer unmatched quality and complexity. The Beverage Testing Institute's top-rated Irish whiskeys feature everything from ultra-aged single malts to innovative grain whiskies finished in exotic oak. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these exceptional spirits, each representing Ireland's whiskey renaissance and a must-have for any serious whiskey lover. More From Forbes Forbes The Top Irish Whiskeys, According To The Irish Whiskey Awards By Joseph V Micallef
Forbes
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Best Irish Blended Whiskey, According To The Beverage Testing Inst
Jameson Bow Street 18 YO Blended Whiskey at the Midleton Distillery Photo, J Micallef Looking for the best Irish blended whiskeys of 2025? The Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) has just announced its top winners, highlighting the most exceptional Irish blends of the year. One whiskey received a prestigious Platinum medal. Eight additional blends earned Gold medals. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these are the top-rated Irish blended whiskeys you should explore now. A premium blend of pot still and grain whiskeys aged 18 years and matured in first-fill bourbon and Sherry casks at the historic Bow Street distillery in Dublin. Bottled at cask strength, it delivers bold intensity. The whiskey received a Platinum medal and scored 96/100 points. The whiskey offers aromas of rich toffee, dried fig, toasted oak, and cinnamon. It's full-bodied and creamy on the palate, with notes of honeycomb, dark chocolate, baking spices, caramel, and vanilla. The finish is long and warm, with lingering notes of toasted oak, wood spices, and Sherry-infused fruit. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'toasted coconut custard pie, raisin bread pudding, and spiced cherries. The palate offers flavors of crème brûlée, a wide range of baking spices, and honey. An incredibly rich and decadent, world-class barrel-proof Irish Blended Whiskey that is a titan in its category.' This whiskey is a blend of three distinct distillates, aged in a combination of American ex-bourbon and European sherry casks for nearly two decades. This refined blend highlights the depth and complexity of mature Irish whiskey. The whiskey scored 94/100 points and received a gold medal. The whisky offers aromas of seasoned wood, stewed fruit, caramelized banana, and nutmeg. It's smooth and silky on the palate with flavors of dark toffee, roasted nuts, stone fruit, and hints of sherry sweetness. The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of oak spice and dried apricot. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as revealing aromas of 'toffee, caramel apple, and marmalade on raisin toast. The palate includes flavors of spiced nuts, sarsaparilla, and butter pecan ice cream. It is a superb Irish whiskey full of enticing aromas and flavors that finish with a lingering warming sensation; a must-try with cigars.' A view of wooden barrels of Jameson Whiskey at the entrance to Old Distillery in Midleton, County Cork. (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images) NurPhoto via Getty Images Midleton Very Rare 2025 Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $200 Midleton's annual Very Rare release features carefully selected single pot still and grain whiskeys aged 12–25 years. The 2025 edition continues the tradition of sophisticated, ultra-premium elegance. The whisky received a gold medal with a score of 94/100. The whiskey features aromas of honeysuckle, vanilla, candied citrus, and sandalwood. On the palate, it's smooth and creamy, with a layered complexity that highlights orchard fruit, marzipan, seasoned oak, and notes of cooked cereal. The finish is long and rich, with lingering hints of vanilla cream and spiced fruit compote. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'cinnamon, yellow apple, and nutmeg. The palate offers toasted oak, dried apple, and peanut shell. Spicy, nutty, and toasty, it's a warm and enjoyable Irish whiskey to share with friends.' Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Malaga Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $33 This exclusive, globally available travel retail expression is exceptionally priced, triple-distilled, and matured in bourbon, sherry, and sweet Malaga wine casks. The whiskey received a score of 93 points and a gold medal. The whiskey is rich and aromatic, with notes of dried fruits, raisins, orange zest, and toasted almonds. It's full-bodied and smooth on the palate, highlighting flavors of fig jam, toffee, milk chocolate, and subtle baking spices. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering hints of honeyed fruit and a hint of Malaga dessert wine. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'marzipan, golden raisins, and cinnamon. The palate offers flavors of baked pear, black pepper, and red delicious apple. Elegant and exceptionally balanced, you'll want to sip this delightful whiskey.' Accord Stone Irish Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. $70 Accord Stone, a lesser-known blended Irish whiskey, is a boutique brand that focuses on smoothness. It received a score of 93/100 and a gold medal. The whiskey offers notes of honey, vanilla, green apple, and cooked cereal. It's smooth and easy to sip, with hints of butterscotch, cooked cereal, and citrus. The finish is medium-length but smooth, with a lingering sweetness of cooked cereal. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as showcasing aromas of 'buttery toffee, honey-roasted grains, and maple syrup. The palate offers flavors of roasted nuts, dried apple, and pear. It is a bold, rich, and unusually textured Irish whiskey, infused with aromas and flavors from Sherry and bourbon barrels.' Bottles of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced by Pernod Ricard and is the largest selling Irish Whiskey in the world. getty Jameson Black Barrel Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $38 A mix of small-batch grain and traditional pot still whiskeys, aged in double-charred bourbon barrels for enhanced depth and smoothness. The whiskey earned a gold medal with 92/100 points. The whiskey offers aromas of butterscotch, charred wood, nutmeg, and vanilla. It's full-bodied and rich on the palate, with flavors of caramel, spice cake, molasses, and toasted oak. The finish is smooth, smoky, and sweet, with lingering hints of cinnamon and cocoa. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'grilled peach, caramelized pineapple, and clove. The palate offers flavors of baked apple, sweet corn, and pear. A fine Irish whiskey to enjoy on its own or in a cocktail—smooth and enjoyable in every aspect.' Jameson Crested Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $45 One of Jameson's older labels, Crested combines pot still and grain whiskey, with a strong sherry cask influence, delivering a richer, sweeter profile than the classic Jameson. The whisky scored 91/100 points and a gold medal. The whiskey exhibits aromas of red berries, sherried wood, milk chocolate, and citrus peel. It's smooth and sweet on the palate, revealing flavors of cooked cereal/malt, ripe plum, chocolate, toasted nuts, and subtle oak spices. The finish is long and sweet, with warming oak and dried fruit. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of baked apple, custard, and bread dough. The palate reveals flavors of baked quince, cheese Danish, and fig. An elegant, blended Irish whiskey to enjoy on the rocks and in well-crafted cocktails. Also winning gold medals, with 90/100 points, were Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml, $35, and Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Sicilian Marsala Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml, $33. Both scored 90/100 points. From the rare intensity of Jameson Bow Street 18-Year-Old to the exceptional value of Triple Triple and Caskmates, the 2025 BevTest results demonstrate that Irish blended whiskey continues to set the global standard for smoothness, complexity, and approachability. With multiple Gold and Platinum medal winners, especially from Jameson and Midleton, these blends provide both premium quality and remarkable variety. Whether enjoyed neat or mixed into a sophisticated cocktail, these top Irish blended whiskeys are essential additions to every whiskey lover's collection in 2025. More From Forbes Forbes Top Irish Single Malt Whiskey, According To The San Francisco World Spirits Competition By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The Top Irish Whiskeys, According To The Irish Whiskey Awards By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The San Francisco World Spirits Competition Crowns The Top Irish Blended Whiskey By Joseph V Micallef
