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Bourbon Battle Intensifies in New York City

The finalists of the 2024 New York World Spirits Competition for Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon.

News Summary

The 2024 New York World Spirits Competition has announced its finalists for Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon, featuring three standout distilleries: 15 Stars, Rabbit Hole Distillery, and Peg Leg Porker Spirits. Each contender showcases exceptional flavors and innovative techniques, appealing to bourbon enthusiasts everywhere. The excitement builds as they compete for recognition in the world of premium spirits, making it a thrilling time for bourbon lovers.

Exciting Bourbon Battle Heats Up in New York!

New York City is buzzing with excitement as we dive into the world of small-batch bourbon! The 2024 New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC) has revealed its finalists for the coveted title of Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon, featuring three incredible craft distilleries that have captured the hearts and taste buds of bourbon lovers everywhere.

Meet The Contenders

The stars of the show are 15 Stars, Rabbit Hole Distillery, and Peg Leg Porker Spirits. Each of these producers has a strong track record, boasting numerous gold medals from various spirit competitions. It’s clear that they are not only passionate about their craft but also dedicated to delivering exceptional flavors. Let’s get to know a bit more about each contender!

15 Stars Distillery Takes the Crown

Leading the pack is 15 Stars, a relatively new player in the bourbon scene, having been established in 2021 by Rick and Ricky Johnson. This name pays homage to the Bluegrass State as the 15th state to join the Union. Talk about pride!

15 Stars’ Platinum Straight Bourbon (49% ABV, 750 ml) snagged the title of Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon for spirits 10 Years and Younger. Can we take a moment to appreciate how quickly they’ve gained recognition? Just last year, they won the title of “World’s Best Bourbon” for their Sherry Cask bourbon at another prominent competition!

This impressive bourbon features a delightful blend of 10, 15, and 18-year-old bourbons sourced from undisclosed distilleries in Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee. It’s a flavor bomb, offering sweet notes of toffee, butterscotch, salted caramel, and a sprinkle of baking spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. No wonder it’s turning heads!

Rabbit Hole Distillery’s Bold Entry

Rabbit Hole Distillery and its Heigold Kentucky Straight Bourbon (47.5% ABV, 750 ml), which made it to the finals in the Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon 10 Years and Younger category. Founded in 2012 by Kaveh Zamanian, this distillery began as a passion project after he transitioned from a career in clinical psychology to bourbon-making—how’s that for a change of pace?

Rabbit Hole opened its doors in 2018 in the lively NuLu neighborhood of Louisville. Known for its innovative techniques, the Heigold bourbon boasts a unique mash bill of 70% corn, 25% malted German rye, and 5% malted barley. The profile is bold and spicy, featuring tantalizing notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and a hint of honey. Perfect for those looking for a flavorful kick!

Peg Leg Porker’s Tennessee Tradition

Last but by no means least is Peg Leg Porker Spirits, founded by Carey Bringle, a Nashville barbecue expert who saw a gap in the market for quality bourbon when he launched the brand in 2013. Their Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey 12 YO Black Label (46.35% ABV, 750 ml) has taken the spotlight as the Best-in-Class Small Batch Bourbon 11 Years and Older.

With a nose that invites you in with notes of caramel, vanilla, charred oak, and even a hint of pickle brine, Peg Leg Porker makes a strong impression right off the bat. The palate is creamy and sweet, showcasing tropical fruit notes alongside seasoned oak. It’s a unique beverage that you won’t want to miss!

The Judges’ Praise

The esteemed judging panel at the NYWSC has praised all three bourbons for their complex and robust flavor profiles. What’s even more exciting is that these small-batch bourbons are not only readily available, but they are also competitively priced—great news for bourbon lovers looking to explore high-quality options without breaking the bank!

So, whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or just starting to dip your toes into the world of whiskey, keep an eye on these phenomenal craft producers. Each one is making waves, and we can’t wait to see who takes home the title this year!