In recent years, the world of whiskey has seen a remarkable transformation, particularly in the realm of North American bourbons. The International Wine and Spirits’ inaugural Global Judging event, held in Kentucky, served as a critical platform for this evolution. With nearly 500 bottles evaluated by a panel of experts, industry veterans gathered to discover the finest expressions of this iconic spirit. The outcome was indeed promising, yielding over 430 medals across multiple categories, including 30 gold and four outstanding gold awards. It was a vibrant display of craftsmanship and innovation that has set the stage for what bourbon can achieve.
Judges like Dawn Davies MW expressed astonishment at the quality of liquid produced by various distilleries, emphasizing the innovative cask finishes and unique grain selections they encountered throughout the judging process. The diversity of flavors manifested in the bourbons suggested an industry-wide embrace of creativity, where traditional standards coexist with modern experimentation. Among the remarkable insights shared was the importance of experimenting beyond the typical profiles, which has inevitably led to remarkable highlights within the bourbon category.
Among the standout bottles was none other than the Kentucky Peerless Distilling Toasted Bourbon, which eluded the competition to seize the exclusive outstanding gold award in the bourbon category. Hailing from a storied legacy that dates back to 1889, Peerless had once been a prominent player in the bourbon landscape before being stifled by Prohibition. Resurrected in 2015 by Corky Taylor and his son Carson, the distillery has taken the whiskey world by storm with its meticulous, grain-to-bottle philosophy.
Unlike many distilleries that source their whiskey from external producers, Peerless proudly manages every aspect of the production process on-site. Their commitment to an unwavering crafting ethos is evident from their choice of using a fresh sweet mash for fermentation rather than adopting the more conventional sour mash technique. This meticulous approach not only enhances flavor intricacies but marks a significant departure from industry norms.
An intriguing aspect of Peerless’s production is its rejection of chill filtration—a common practice aimed at removing particulates—to maintain a fuller flavor profile and enhanced mouthfeel. Additionally, filling barrels at a lower proof allows the distillate to engage with the oak more harmoniously. These choices reflect Peerless’s determination to create a bourbon that is rich, smooth, and thoughtfully balanced.
The feature of their bourbon aging process also stands out; wherein, the whiskeys are nurtured in climate-controlled warehouses. This method helps mitigate the impact of fluctuating temperatures, promoting a more uniform aging experience that ensures the essence of each spirit is genuinely preserved. Another key distinction lies in Peerless’s practice of releasing whiskey based on its flavor profile instead of age, allowing for expression over mere numbers—a potentially transformative concept in an industry often obsessed with age statements.
Peerless Toasted Bourbon undergoes a unique finish by aging in two separate oak barrels. Initially maturing in a standard char 3 barrel, it gains foundational flavors of caramel and toffee, essential characteristics of traditional bourbon. Once deemed ready by Master Distiller Craig Kilburn and Head Taster John Wadell, it transitions to a toasted barrel for a finishing touch that enriches its complexity. This dual maturation process conjures a bourbon that not only satisfies the palate with layers of flavor but also mesmerizes with its aromatic bouquet.
The remarkable quality of the Kentucky Peerless Toasted Bourbon did not go unnoticed, as it achieved an impressive score of 98 out of 100 points—a testament to its superb craftsmanship. Judges lauded its enticing aromas of integrated oak, bright orchard fruits, and subtle spices, creating a vivid sensory experience. On the palate, the layers of caramel and nutty undertones meld beautifully, leaving a lasting impression that speaks to its quality.
As the spirits industry continues to evolve, bourbons like Kentucky Peerless Distilling’s Toasted Bourbon exemplify the artistry and innovative spirit redefining whiskey making today. With a profound dedication to quality that stems from rich heritage and an eye towards the future, it’s clear the world of bourbon is poised for remarkable growth and exploration. Collectors and enthusiasts alike would do well to seek out these award-winning expressions, for they encapsulate a dynamic chapter in the story of American whiskey.
Leave a Reply