Recently, the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) hosted its much-anticipated annual convention in Denver, Colorado. Since its inception in 1943, WSWA has been a vital force in the beverage alcohol industry, representing the largest network of wholesalers across the United States. This three-day event attracted over 370 members and more than 3,000 attendees, creating a vibrant atmosphere where industry professionals convened to discuss the latest trends, legislative challenges, and emerging opportunities within the realm of alcoholic beverages.
As an organization dedicated to advocating for distributors on various fronts—ranging from federal to state regulations—WSWA also awards honors to outstanding products in the wine and spirits sector. The convention not only provides a platform for networking but also serves as a stage for showcasing some of the most exceptional wines and spirits available on today’s market.
One of the highlights of the event was the announcement of the “Best of Show Whiskey” for the upcoming calendar year. The awards result from meticulous judging organized in conjunction with the Tasting Alliance, which takes into account various expert perspectives from within the industry. This year’s most coveted title went to a whiskey that is yet to hit the market: the Centennial 18-Year-Old from Calumet Farm, a distillery located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. With bourbon’s rising popularity, the announcement of this new release has left bourbon aficionados eagerly anticipating its arrival.
The Centennial 18-Year-Old whiskey is described as a non-chill filtered marvel with a robust 118-proof. The expertly crafted mashbill consists of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley, marking it as a worthy contender within the bourbon category. While Calumet Farm is classified as a non-distilling producer and has remained tight-lipped about the whiskey’s origins, many connoisseurs suspect that its lineage may trace back to the renowned Barton 1792 distillery, known for producing high-quality spirits.
When poured into a glass, the Centennial 18-Year-Old reveals a captivating aroma of peppered stone fruit, a precursor to the tantalizing journey that awaits on the palate. True to its bourbon heritage, the tasting notes encompass the well-loved flavors of vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon, yet elevated to a thrilling intensity that captivates the senses. The mouthfeel is both creamy and luxurious, bolstered by the whiskey’s potent alcohol by volume (ABV). It concludes with a memorable finish featuring hints of crème brûlée and candied apple, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship behind this whiskey.
Calumet Farm has expressed immense pride in the creation of this unique spirit, referencing the meticulous process that contributes to its signature flavor. The distillery’s philosophy centers on the idea that great whiskey embodies patience and dedication—a notion reflected in the exceptional character of the Centennial 18-Year-Old.
Marking a Century of Excellence
Established in 2013, Calumet Farm is relatively new to the whiskey scene yet carries with it a legacy, as the namesake farm celebrates its 100th anniversary in Lexington, Kentucky. The release of this elegant bourbon is both a tribute to that illustrious history and an assertion of the brand’s commitment to quality. Presented in a stunning trophy decanter, the bourbon is poised to become a centerpiece in any discerning collector’s home bar.
However, potential buyers should prepare for a significant investment. With a retail price of $499 per bottle, the Centennial 18-Year-Old whiskey is positioned as a premium product, a testament to its rarity and exceptional quality.
As whiskey lovers await the official release of Calumet Farm’s Centennial 18-Year-Old, the anticipation surrounding this bottling highlights the ongoing allure of bourbon. This award-winning expression not only raises the bar for Calumet Farm but also promises to redefine excellence within the industry at large. For enthusiasts looking to expand their collections or simply indulge in a top-shelf experience, this upcoming release is certainly one to watch.
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