Unveiling the Surprising Winners of the New York Wine & Spirits Competition

Last month, the highly-anticipated New York Wine & Spirits Competition took place, and the results have been revealed. The competition showcased an array of whiskeys, and the winners of Best Bourbon and Best in Show might catch you off guard. Believe it or not, both were produced by a non-distilling producer named 15 Stars, based in Kentucky.

Now, let’s take a moment to understand how this blind competition operates. Expert judges were presented with flights of spirits in various categories, and they embarked on a taste-testing journey completely blind. The only information disclosed to them was the proof, category, and style of each spirit. Those awarded Double Gold medals progressed to the final round, still maintaining the blind element, where the winners of each spirits category were determined.

In a surprise turn of events, 15 Stars emerged as the Best in Show winner in the whiskey category, surpassing several more well-known and established competitors. As you may recall, 15 Stars was so named as a tribute to Kentucky becoming the 15th state to join the Union. Rick and Ricky Johnson, a father and son team, run the company. One of their experiments involved using corn typically used for popcorn to create bourbon in collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company.

Curiously enough, the Best in Show whiskey at the competition was not a bourbon, but rather 15 Stars’ First West Rye Whiskey. This blend of whiskey, aged between six and eight years and bottled at 105 proof, won over the judges with its enticing mixture of spice, dried fruit, and honey notes on the palate.

Notably, the Best Bourbon winner also hailed from 15 Stars. The Sherry Cask Finished Bourbon, a blend of 13 and 10-year-old whiskey from Kentucky and Indiana, bottled at 115 proof, took home the prestigious prize. It should be noted that the sherry-seasoned cask finishing may spark controversy among whiskey purists, who may argue in favor of straight bourbon with no secondary maturation, akin to esteemed brands such as George T. Stagg, Rabbit Hole, and Blue Run Spirits. However, quality ultimately triumphs, and if it’s good, it’s good.

Although it may appear coincidental that both winners originated from the same producer, it truly serves as a testament to the exceptional quality of whiskey that 15 Stars consistently delivers. If you wish to experience these award-winning spirits for yourself, the First West Rye is conveniently available for purchase through Total Wine. The Sherry Cask Finished Bourbon, on the other hand, may prove more elusive online, so it’s advisable to check your local liquor store for availability.

Feeling inspired? Why not organize your own blind tasting to see if you concur with the competition’s results? It’s always intriguing to explore and embrace the diverse world of spirits. Cheers!

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