Latest news with #SanFranciscoWorldSpiritsCompetition
Forbes
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
5 Of The Best Bourbons And Ryes—According To The San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Only select rye and bourbon whiskeys earned double gold medals at this year's San Francisco World Spirits Competition. getty Bourbon and rye are two of the most popular spirits categories each year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, which is one of the most prestigious and best-known spirits competitions in the industry. This year the competition received more than 1200 submissions from spirit producers across the globe. Each spirit submitted undergoes a rigorous blind-taste test, and awards are granted regardless of label or price tag. The double gold award is one of the highest-rated awards a spirit can receive at the competition and is only awarded when every judge on the judging panel deems it worty of receiving a gold medal. Out of the 350-bourbons submitted and 100-plus ryes only select expressions earned the double-gold honor at the 2025 competition. Of those, here is a closer look at a few that also happen to be among my personal favorite rye and bourbon offerings. As always, I advise readers to use this type of feature as a jumping-off point, rather than an endpoint, for their bourbon and rye exploration. I've tried many but certainly not all of the double gold medal-winning bourbons and ryes at this year's competition, and not every great bourbon or rye was entered into the competition in the first place. Also, the best rye and bourbon depend on what your personal preferences are and what you're trying to do with the spirit: a sipping bourbon is, of course, very different from a rye you want to mix cocktails with etc. That said, all the whiskeys listed below are great in many different settings. The mash bill is 65% corn, 22% rye, and 13% wheat and barley. Bottled at barrel proof, unfiltered and uncut, this is another whiskey that proves Brother's Band is a whiskey producer that knows what they're doing—their bottled-in-bond bourbon also won a double gold at this year's competition. The flavor is smooth and rich with subtle notes of honey and caramel. Made with Jimmy Red heirloom corn, this South Carolina bourbon turns heads, including mine, with its originality. I got the super creamy mouthfeel this variety is noted for and fell quickly in love. I'm not going out on a wire when I say this is an excellent bourbon that whiskey fans should try ASAP. This classic rye is a bartender's favorite for a reason. At 100 proof, it has the booze backbone to stand up to cocktails but at the same time offers enough pleasant spice and smoothness to still work as a sipper. Affordable and widely available, this is the rye I tend to use as a base note when judging other ryes. I love creative cask-finished whiskeys, and this is a wonderful example of that style from one of New York's most acclaimed distilleries. Made from a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, the calvados cask gives this a caramel finish that is really enjoyable. A premium bourbon drinking experience comes with a premium price tag here that is worth it if you have some extra money in your whiskey budget. This series features bourbon made from barrels specifically selected by the distiller, and the result is a bourbon that is certainly a cut above.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Beloved Whiskey Distillery Files For Bankruptcy
One iconic Kentucky whiskey distillery appears to have fallen on hard times financially and is filing for bankruptcy protection as a result. Luca Mariano has become one of the more beloved whiskey brands in recent years, with its Luca Mariano Single Barrel Rye Whiskey even ranking as one of the best rye whiskeys of 2023, according to the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. However, like many other whiskey and bourbon brands and distilleries throughout the United States, it seems to have had some issues on the business side of things. According to a report from Newsweek, LMD Holdings, the parent company of the Danville, Kentucky-based Luca Mariano Distillery, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month in the Eastern District of Michigan, where it is registered. The bankruptcy filing, which came only weeks after the distillery's June launch, was intended to "maximize the value of the assets for all stakeholders," Luca Mariano Distillery owner Francesco Viola told the Lexington Herald-Leader, adding that the company was "poised to emerge successfully. "We filed to maximize the value of the assets for all stakeholders. Luca Mariano Distillery and LMD Holdings have a successful business model, have weathered the prior economic challenges in our industry, and are poised to emerge successfully, ideally with the support of its employees, customers, community and creditors," Viola told the paper in a full statement. According to court filings obtained by the Lexington Herald-Leader, LMD Holdings is currently facing a significant amount of debt, including a "likely claim of over $25,000,000" owed to its largest creditor. However, some of the claims are under dispute. This is certainly not the only whiskey brand that has been burdened by an uncertain economy. We'll have to see how Luca Mariano and the rest of the whiskey and bourbon industry rebound from this in the future. Beloved Whiskey Distillery Files For Bankruptcy first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 5, 2025
Forbes
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The 8 Best Single Malt Scotch Whiskies Under $100 In 2025—Ranked By Experts
The eight finalists for the Best Single Malt Scotch under $100 category at the SFWSC. Sophia Lindenberger In a whisky world increasingly dominated by eye-popping price tags and flashy packaging, it's easy to forget that what really matters is the liquid in the bottle. Thankfully, the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) reminded us that you don't need to drop $300, or even $100, to score a fantastic bottle of premium whisky. Among the most exciting categories at this year's judging was the Best Single Malt Scotch Under $100. The eight finalists not only earned Double Gold medals, but also delivered exceptional quality at prices that are, frankly, a steal in today's inflated market. All these beauties offer deeply complex whiskies that highlight the distilling excellence of Scotland. From coastal peat monsters to rich sherry bombs to oak-kissed Highland elegance, each of these bottles offers something unique, and if you love a fantastic whisky that won't break your wallet, look no further. Region: Speyside | Price: $45 | Score: 98 pts Smooth, balanced, and endlessly drinkable, The Singleton 12 Year Old is the kind of whisky that reminds you why Speyside remains the heartbeat of Scotch. Distilled at the Dufftown distillery, it is matured in American and European oak, and it offers notes of baked apple, honeycomb, vanilla, and a touch of spice. There's no smoke here, no fireworks, just a clean, refined single malt that punches way above its price. This is a whisky that is perfect for both single malt novices and more experienced connoisseurs who are looking for an everyday sipper. At only $45, it's one of the best values in all of Scotch. The Glendronach Forgue 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Region: Highlands | Price: $60 | Score: 98 pts If you're a fan of sherry-matured malts, the Glendronach Forgue is a no-brainer. Rich and full-bodied, it offers a mélange of dried fruits, chocolate, orange peel, and baking spices. Since its founding in 1826, The Glendronach has focused on maturing its whiskies in sherry casks, and it has earned a legion of followers since. The Forgue 10 Year Old keeps the tradition alive with depth, character, and a silky finish that lingers far longer than its price suggests. Made exclusively for the brand's Travel Exclusive program, this whisky can only be found in duty-free stores in airports around the globe. Hence, it's excellent price. Grab one the next time you are jetting off, you won't be disappointed. Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Region: Highlands | Price: $47 | Score: 98 pts Peat lovers, take note: this isn't your typical Islay smoke bomb. Inchmoan delivers a more restrained, herbal style of smoke, reminiscent of a smoldering campfire with hints of peat, backed by roasted coffee, vanilla, and clove. It's complex, surprising, and proof that peated Highland malts deserve a lot more attention. At under $50, this might be the most overlooked gem on the list. If you enjoy smoky whisky with nuance, you won't regret tracking this down. Highland Park 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Region: Orkney | Price: $59 | Score: 98 pts If you are a scotch lover, you are sure to have heard of Highland Park for good reason. For over 225 years, Highland Park has been crafting superb single-malt scotches that embrace the subtle smoky flavors of Orkney heathered peat. Their flagship 12-year-old is a masterclass in balance: gentle heather smoke, sweet malt, honey, and subtle sherry notes. It's elegant, approachable, and has enough complexity to keep seasoned drinkers engaged. For under $60, it's hard to find a more complete single malt. This is the kind of bottle that belongs in every whisky drinker's rotation. Alexander Murray & Co. Highland 14 Year Old Sherry Cask Single Malt Scotch Region: Highlands | Price: $70 | Score: 99 pts Founded twenty-one years ago, Alexander Murray & Co. specializes in independent bottling of select scotches. That means that they purchase casks of matured whisky directly from distillers and blend their whiskies. This approach allows them the leeway to move from different styles to produce exceptional bottlings. Aged 14 years, this Highland single malt had a second maturation in first-fill ex-sherry casks, creating a whisky brimming with dark fruit, leather, oak spice, and a velvety mouthfeel that screams luxury. At $70, it's pushing the top of the category, but the liquid more than justifies the price. This is premium scotch at a workingman's rate. Glengoyne White Oak Highland Single Malt Scotch Region: Highlands | Price: $60 | Score: 98 pts Since its founding in 1833, Glengoyne has prided itself on taking its time when distilling its scotches and never cutting corners. Their whiskies undergo the longest distillation of any Scottish whisky, creating a liquid famous for its sweet and fruity flavors. As a brand new expression for the venerable distillery, Glengoyne White Oak is matured exclusively in lightly charred First Fill Bourbon and Virgin White Oak casks. A non-age-stated release, it is a nonpeated whisky that is bright and clean. If you like your whisky elegant, balanced, and refreshingly straightforward, this one's for you. It's proof that great wood can do as much for a whisky as age or smoke. Glenglassaugh Portsoy Single Malt Scotch Region: Highlands | Price: $60 | Score: 99 pts Glenglassaugh may not be a household name, but Portsoy could change that. A coastal, heavily sherried malt with a smoky backbone, it combines all the classic flavors of an old school single malt with a modern sensibility. That's because the distillery was relaunched in 2023 after being dormant for over a decade. As one of the core offerings, Portsoy is aged in sherry, bourbon, and port casks to create a rich, full-bodied whisky. Tastes of dark chocolate, treacle, soy, and a salty tang that keeps your palate guessing with each sip. This is a whisky that feels wild and untamed—in the best way possible. For $60, it's one of the most characterful and exciting single malts you'll find anywhere. Loch Lomond Remarkable Alchemy Region: Highlands | Price: $55 | Score: 99 pts Obviously, the team at Loch Lomond is a friend of the working man since two of their whiskies made the finalist list at the SFWSC. This aptly named expression lives up to its billing. Crafted with Loch Lomond's experimental stills and matured in Colombian oak, it delivers waves of orchard fruit, spice, smoke, and toasted sugar. It's different. It's bold. And it's flat-out delicious. Made for its Global Travel program, this bottle is only available in select duty-free locations worldwide. At $55, this is boundary-pushing whisky for the curious drinker who wants something beyond the usual suspects. If you see a bottle on your next layover, snatch it up. The Bottom Line In a marketplace full of overpriced limited editions and collector's bait, these eight single malts remind us what whisky is about: craftsmanship, balance, and flavor. Each of these finalists earned its place on this list through merit, not marketing, and each delivers a drinking experience that far exceeds its price tag. So next time you're scanning the whisky aisle or scrolling online, skip the hype. Reach for one of these bottles. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Goose Island's 2025 Bourbon County Stout Lineup Focuses On The Tasting Experience By Hudson Lindenberger Forbes Tequila Vs Mezcal: A Guide To When And How To Drink Each By Hudson Lindenberger Forbes These Are The Best Bourbons Of 2025 (So Far), According To Spirits Competitions By Hudson Lindenberger
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rebel Bourbon announces annual release of highly acclaimed Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon
Award-winning 100 proof wheated bourbon returns in limited quantities ST. LOUIS, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bardstown, Kentucky-based Rebel Bourbon announced the annual release of award-winning Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon. Aged for a full decade, Rebel 10-Year is bottled one barrel at a time – a process that creates a rich and rebellious flavor profile unique to each barrel. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), a limited allocation of 2,600 (6-in) cases of 750mL bottles arrive on shelf this month at a minimum suggested retail price of $99.99. Handcrafted according to Rebel's original, time-honored wheated recipe since 1849, Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel features a mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat and 12% malt. With a golden amber glow, Rebel 10-Year opens with a nose of vanilla and dark fruits followed by subtle citrus and oak. Flavors include traces of caramel and citrus, and a velvety smooth finish with just a hint of spice. "This year's 10-Year Single Barrel is a testament to the legacy of Rebel Bourbon," said Rebel Bourbon Master Distiller John Rempe. "From the unique mash bill through the 10-year aging and single-barrel bottling process for robust flavor, Rebel 10-Year is made for sipping, and ready to be enjoyed by anyone ready to let their spirit be heard." Each bottle of Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel includes a bold black Rebel Bourbon label featuring the 10-year age statement front and center in silver lettering and the specific barrel number and aged-since date. Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel recently won many prestigious spirits industry awards: Double Platinum medal at the 2025 ASCOT Awards Double Gold medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Double Gold medal and Consumer's Choice Award at the SIP Awards Gold medal and Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards The product locator to find Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel and the full portfolio of award-winning Rebel Bourbon varieties is here. About Rebel BourbonDistilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill true to its original recipe dating back to 1849, when it was invented at the Stitzel-Weller distillery. Our defiantly smooth premium wheated bourbon celebrates those who embrace bold originality and a rebellious spirit. Our products have earned top spirits industry honors including Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year for Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel by the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition awarded double gold medals to Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel, Rebel 100 6-Year and Rebel Small Batch Reserve, and a gold medal to Rebel 100. At the 2025 ASCOT Awards, Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel earned a double platinum medal, and Rebel 100 and Rebel 100 6-Year earned gold medals. To learn more, visit and follow on Facebook and Instagram. About LuxcoFounded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products with a mission to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Luxco operates as MGP Ingredients Inc. (Nasdaq: MGPI) Branded Spirits division since its acquisition in 2021. The company's extensive and award-winning premium portfolio includes brands from four distilleries: Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Penelope and Remus bourbon are produced; Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Rebel, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath bourbons; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Bourbon; and Arandas, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas including El Mayor and Exotico. For more information, visit CONTACT:Patrick Barry, BYRNE PR314-540-3865 patrick@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lux Row Distillers
Scotsman
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Glen Scotia gifts bespoke 25 Year Old whisky to King Charles during royal visit to Campbeltown
In celebration of King Charles' III visit to Campbeltown today (3 July 2025), multi award-winning distillery Glen Scotia presented The King with a bespoke bottling of its prized 25 Year Old single malt whisky. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Featuring a unique engraving which reads 'To celebrate the royal visit of King Charles to Campbeltown 3rd July 2025', the coveted expression, has received Platinum recognition six times in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition since 2018 and was specially created by Glen Scotia to mark the occasion of the royal visit to Scotland's smallest whisky-producing region. Once known as the whisky capital of the world, Campbeltown has seen a resurgence in recent years, with Glen Scotia at the heart of its whisky revival. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Iain McAlister, Glen Scotia distillery manager, said: 'It's a tremendous honour to welcome His Majesty to Campbeltown. His visit not only recognises the town's historical significance, but also its vibrant whisky-making community. Glen Scotia gifts The King bespoke bottle of its 25 Year Old whisky 'We are proud to gift The King a bespoke bottling of our 25 Year Old to celebrate this special moment, a whisky that reflects the depth of character and craftsmanship which define Glen Scotia and Campbeltown.' The 25-year-old whisky presented to The King showcases Glen Scotia's distinct coastal flavours. Gently matured in the finest American oak casks and finished in first-fill bourbon barrels, the exceptional single malt is a true reflection of the distillery's traditional character and signature Campbeltown style.
