American blended whiskey is experiencing rapid growth within the whiskey market, as demonstrated by the finalists for the Best Blended Whiskey category at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). This year’s competition featured five remarkable whiskeys that highlight an impressive range of aromas and flavors.

High Bank Distillery, Whiskey War (44% ABV, 750 ml, $38.99)
Crafted in Columbus, Ohio, Whiskey War is a rye-heavy blend aged for a minimum of five years. Master Distiller Adam Hines utilized over 100 mash bills from nearly 50 distilleries, aiming to deliver affordability without compromising flavor. Tasting notes include fruity aromas of orange zest and apple, with a palate offering hints of apple cider vinegar and tropical fruit, concluding with a long, fruity finish.

High Bank Distillery, Whiskey War Barrel Proof (57.9% ABV, 750 ml, $54.99)
This cask strength version of Whiskey War boasts an ABV of approximately 59% and is recognized as "Best Blended Whiskey in America" for three consecutive years (2021-2023). It features vibrant notes of fruits and vanilla, with a palate enriched by rye spices and a lengthy finish that showcases aged leather and dried fruits.

Longleaf Distilling Co., Heirloom American Whiskey (45% ABV, 750 ml, $48)
Produced in Macon, Georgia, Heirloom American Whiskey revives traditional Georgia whiskey-making techniques, using locally sourced heirloom grains and a blend of newly charred and reused oak barrels. It presents floral aromas with hints of honeysuckle and a palate of quince and honey. The finish is herbal with notes of walnut and rooibos tea.

Longleaf Distilling Co., Cask Strength Heirloom American Whiskey (61.53% ABV, 750 ml, $60)
This limited edition whiskey, finished in Madeira casks, delivers a richer profile. Its aroma encompasses dried fruits and spices, while the palate is full-bodied with flavors of caramel and remnants of Madeira. The long, sweet finish includes lingers of dried fruit and seasoned oak.

6666, American Blended Whiskey (46% ABV, 750 ml, $31)
Hailing from the historic Four Sixes Ranch in Texas, this whiskey is crafted by ranch hands that embody the rugged American spirit. The nose features caramel, vanilla, and smoke, while the palate is creamy and sweet. The finish triumphs with toasted oak and spice notes.

The SFWSC remains a premier spirits competition, evaluating entries through stringent blind tastings. Awards from this event carry significant weight in the spirits industry, serving as benchmarks for quality and craftsmanship. The 2025 finalists embody the diverse and innovative nature of American blended whiskey, making them essential selections for those looking to explore this growing segment.

A pair of craft manufacturers in Northern Colorado and the Boulder Valley recently earned significant accolades in their respective fields of olive oil and whiskey.

Wildly Virgin, a Boulder-based olive oil company renowned for producing small batches from long-standing Portuguese farms, was awarded a gold medal at the New York International Olive Oil Competition for its Joaquim’s Reserve Cobrançosa varietal. Co-founder Nader Akhnoukh expressed the magnitude of this achievement, stating that it not only highlights Wildly Virgin’s commitment to quality but also the excellence of Portuguese olive oil on the global stage. “To not only win gold, but rank among the world’s top 100 olive oils, is an incredible testament to the quality of Portuguese olive oil and the passion behind it,” he said in a prepared statement.

Meanwhile, Root Shoot Spirits, located in Loveland, received the title of American Single Malt Whiskey of the Year at the London Spirits Competition for its premium product. Founder Todd Olander emphasized that this recognition reflects the dedication and hard work that goes into crafting their whiskey, highlighting the importance of their carefully cultivated raw materials. “Recognition for Root Shoot Whiskey is also recognition for the soil, sun, sweat, and stubbornness that went into making it,” Olander remarked, stressing the role of regenerative agricultural practices in producing high-quality whiskey.

With 50 years of aging, Chapter Six of the Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Collection is the oldest single pot still Irish whiskey ever released, showcasing its price tag of $60,000. This whiskey originates from a distillery that ceased operations in 1975, with the release marking the end of a significant era.

In the world of whiskey, the distinction between single pot still and single malt is crucial. Single malt whiskey is made entirely from malted barley at a single distillery, while single pot still whiskey combines malted and unmalted barley along with other grains, such as oats. This makes the Midleton whiskey unique within its category, and it competes distinctly against the recently released 46-year-old single malt from Bushmills.

While Bushmills continues to produce whiskey since 1608, Midleton, which distills several well-known Irish brands like Jameson and Redbreast, is linked to the now-defunct Old Midleton distillery. Opened in 1825, this site is now a visitors’ center and the home of the last whiskey made there. The release of Chapter Six symbolizes that no further products will be distilled from the Old Midleton site again, contributing to its steep price.

Despite the age of Irish whiskey, the longest-aged release being “only” 50 years reflects the category’s decline during much of the 20th century. Irish whiskey faced significant hardship until a revival occurred in the late 1980s, sparking renewed interest in higher-aged offerings.

This final chapter was crafted by Max Crockett at the world’s largest pot still. The aging process included special barrels formed from staves of previous collections, creating a unique blend. The complexity and care put into the final product culminate in a whiskey meant to be savored, with tasting notes suggesting hints of dry oak and leather, balanced by rich dark fruit flavors—ideal for serious enthusiasts.

Packing aesthetics, the whiskey is presented in a hand-blown Waterford crystal decanter housed within a custom case by Irish artist John Galvin, who incorporates unique woods from previous collections, enhancing its appeal as both a drink and a collectible item.

The Midleton Silent Distillery Collection Chapter Six undoubtedly represents an exquisite investment for collectors, with only about 200 bottles available worldwide. Even if owners choose not to enjoy their whiskey, its presentation and storied history make it a coveted piece for display.

The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition showcased American blended whiskey as one of the fastest-growing segments in the whiskey market. Five finalists stood out for their exceptional diversity in aroma and flavor profiles, each bringing a unique character and story.

Finalists for Best Blended Whiskey:

1. High Bank Distillery, Whiskey War (44% ABV, 750 ml) – $38.99
This rye-heavy blend is crafted by High Bank Distillery in Columbus, Ohio. With over 100 mash bills selected from nearly 50 distilleries, it aims for availability, affordability, and exceptional flavor. Tasting notes include a nose of orange zest and clove, with a palate featuring apple cider vinegar, vanilla, and tropical fruit. The long finish lingers with vanilla and caramel.

2. High Bank Distillery, Whiskey War Barrel Proof (57.9% ABV, 750 ml) – $54.99
Bottled at approximately 118 proof, this cask strength version has repeatedly won the title for "Best Blended Whiskey in America." Its vibrant nose features stone and tropical fruits, while the palate showcases rye spices, buttery caramel, and a lengthy dry finish.

3. Longleaf Distilling Co., Heirloom American Whiskey (45% ABV, 750 ml) – $48
Produced in Macon, Georgia, this whiskey revives traditional southern whiskey styles using locally sourced heirloom grains. The nose is floral, highlighting honeysuckle and vanilla, with a palate revealing quince and earthy honey. The finish is slightly herbal with walnut notes.

4. Longleaf Distilling Co., Cask Strength Heirloom American Whiskey (61.53% ABV, 750 ml) – $60
This limited edition is finished in Madeira casks, offering a richer profile. The aroma is sweet with dried fruits, while the palate is full-bodied, featuring caramel and hints of wine. The long finish includes notes of dried fruit and seasoned oak.

5. 6666, American Blended Whiskey (46% ABV, 750 ml) – $31
Honoring the Four Sixes Ranch’s heritage in Texas, this whiskey reflects the rugged spirit of the American West. Its nose has aromas of caramel and cold smoke, with a sweet and creamy palate showcasing vanilla and oak. The finish is long and sweet with toasted oak notes.

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is highly regarded in the spirits industry, gathering expert judges to conduct blind tastings across various categories. Awards from this competition are often viewed as a benchmark for quality and craftsmanship. The 2025 finalists represent the creativity and range of contemporary American blended whiskey, making them excellent choices for those looking to expand their whiskey palate.