The World’s Best Bourbon According To The 2024 IWSC Judging

The International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) has awarded the 2024 Bourbon Trophy to Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co, High Rye Bourbon Kentucky Straight Whiskey. The award, signifying the “World’s Best Bourbon,” culminates a year in which Peerless won top awards at several major spirit competitions. The IWSC, the oldest spirits competition in the world, holds one of the largest yearly spirits judging and is arguably the most prestigious whiskey competition worldwide.

The Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. has a rich and storied history dating back to 1889, when Henry Kraver founded it in Henderson, Kentucky. Peerless quickly became a prominent name in the bourbon industry, producing high-quality whiskey. However, like many distilleries, it was forced to close its doors during Prohibition and never reopened. This deep-rooted history is a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and commitment to quality.

After a century of dormancy, Kraver’s descendants, Corky and Carson Taylor, resurrected the brand in 2015. Their unwavering commitment to quality and tradition led to the brand’s restoration and the reopening of the distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. The reborn Peerless Distilling Co. has quickly gained a reputation for producing outstanding craft bourbon and rye whiskeys, a testament to the Taylor family’s dedication and passion.

Kentucky Peerless Small Batch Bourbon, bottled at barrel proof, offers a rich and unfiltered whiskey experience. The bourbon’s typical flavor profile, features caramel, oak, and a touch of sweetness, along with layers of spice and fruit. The absence of chill-filtration amplifies the spice and fruit notes.

Aged for over four years, Peerless produces its bourbon in smaller, carefully monitored batches for consistent quality. At the 2024 IWSC American Whiskey Judging, Peerless won three medals, including a Gold Outstanding Medal for its Toasted Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a testament to its exceptional flavor.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co, High Rye Bourbon Kentucky Straight Whiskey, 55.75% ABV, 750 ml.

On the nose, the bourbon presents pronounced aromas of rye spice and sweet notes, with rich caramel, vanilla, and oak at the forefront. Underlying hints of pepper, citrus zest, and toasted brown sugar add complexity.

On the palate, the whiskey is robust and full-bodied. It delivers a rich and balanced mix of rye spiciness with a distinctive corn sweetness. The bourbon opens with toffee, dark chocolate, and cinnamon flavors. There are also layers of baking spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, along with oak and black pepper notes. As the whiskey develops, subtle stone and orchard fruit notes of apricot and apple emerge, giving it a rounded complexity.

The finish of Kentucky Peerless High Rye Bourbon is a testament to its quality. It is long and warming, with lingering spice, vanilla, and a slight smokiness from the charred oak. The high rye content produces a peppery kick that fades into a pleasant, lingering, slightly sweet aftertaste, completing the robust and full-bodied tasting experience.

The IWSC Judging Panel described the bourbon as exhibiting:

… classic, inviting aromas of animal hide (old leather) and smoky campfire embers. On the palate, a harmonious blend of rich baking spices and luscious red fruits unfolds, while a subtly dry finish reveals hints of buttery marmalade on toast.

Kentucky Peerless High Rye Bourbon offers a balanced and robust whiskey experience. It combines classic bourbon sweetness with the intensity of rye, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy bold, spicy bourbon.