The Whisky Exchange stands as a beacon in the world of spirits, holding the position of one of the largest online retailers specifically for whisky. Every year, as the seasons change, this esteemed purveyor embarks on an extensive assessment of its stock, which encompasses over 9,000 varieties of whisky. This rigorous evaluation culminates in the announcement of its top-rated whisky, a moment eagerly anticipated by aficionados and casual drinkers alike. In 2025, the results hinted at an unexpected turn: an American whiskey, rather than a Scotch or Irish contender, claimed the top spot. This revelation is representative of a broader trend that showcases the increasing respect and admiration for American whiskey in an industry that has long favored its European counterparts.
What sets this competition apart from typical spirit awards is its emphasis on consumer opinion. The Whisky Exchange invites actual consumers to partake in the evaluation process, eschewing the mystical allure often associated with expert judging. After a meticulous curation process by seasoned whisky professionals, a shortlist of commercially available expressions priced under £80 is established. This list is subsequently revealed at the annual Whisky Show in London, where attendees engage in a blind tasting, casting votes for their favorites. In a remarkable display of grassroots sentiment, the bourbon that emerged victorious is New Riff Bottled in Bond, a delightful offering from Kentucky with a price tag of approximately $42.
New Riff Bottled in Bond is notable not only for its victory but also for its quality and authenticity. Bottled at 100 proof, this whiskey is crafted from non-GMO grains and boasts a significant rye content of 30%. Furthermore, the decision to bottle without chill filtration exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the spirit. Upon pouring, the bourbon greets the senses with a rich bouquet of butterscotch and cardamom, offering an intriguing blend of sweet and savory notes. The mid-palate experience is complex, showcasing dark berry fruits intricately woven with warming clove and cracked pepper, leading into a remarkably prolonged finish. This intricate flavor profile resonates deeply with both craft bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers, affirming the distillery’s status in the evolving landscape of American whiskey.
Winning this accolade is no small feat, especially when considering the prestigious competition from renowned distilleries in Scotland and Ireland. Among the other finalists were impressive expressions like Glenglassaugh Portsoy, Glen Scotia Victoriana, and Green Spot Leoville Barton Bordeaux Finish. This diversity of entries underscores not only the growing prowess of American distilleries but also the challenge they pose to established European brands.
Additionally, The Whisky Exchange also recognizes innovative expressions within the whisky landscape. This year, the “New Wave” award was granted to Copperworks Distilling in Seattle for its Release 046 single malt. Such recognition of American producers lays the groundwork for a vibrant future within the whisky industry, with consumers encouraged to explore whiskey options that were previously overlooked.
Dawn Davies, the head buyer for The Whisky Exchange, highlighted the significance of blind tastings, which strip away biases and preconceptions, allowing true flavors to shine. Her remarks about the triumphant performance of American whiskies reflect a growing acknowledgment of their quality on a global stage. For long-time loyalists of Scotch and Irish whiskies, this year’s results serve as a formidable indication that American whiskey is starting to carve its niche in the spirits world.
The victory of New Riff Bottled in Bond not only celebrates an individual distillery but also represents a burgeoning movement within the American whiskey industry. With discerning consumers now recognizing the depth and complexity offered by American spirits, it begs the question: is the perception of whiskey slowly but surely evolving? As American distilleries continue to innovate and challenge traditional norms, the future of whiskey looks richer and more diverse than ever before.
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