The World Whiskies Awards (WWA) is a prestigious competition that has gained significance in the global spirits arena since its inception in 2007. This annual event serves as a platform for showcasing remarkable whiskies from various corners of the globe, with a particular focus on influencing trends and preferences within the industry. Every year, an esteemed panel of judges comes together, armed with expertise and a discerning palate, to evaluate whiskies across numerous categories, including American whiskeys, single malts, and blends. This critical process often highlights emerging brands and fosters conversation around the evolving landscape of whisky appreciation.
The influence of the WWA cannot be overstated; historical award winners have often been harbingers of market trends. For instance, when Yamazaki 25 Year Old was named Best Single Malt in 2012, it sparked the Great Japanese Whisky Boom, illustrating the competition’s power to shape consumer interest. Similarly, the recognition of unique and innovative offerings each year pushes distilleries towards crafting exceptional spirits, aiming not only for accolades but for excess demand fueled by competitive spirits.
This year’s ceremony for the designated US brown spirits categories took place in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, a city deeply rooted in bourbon culture. Attendees eagerly anticipated the announcement of one particular title, widely recognized as a crown jewel within the bourbon community: “World’s Best Bourbon.” The 2024 edition of the award went to Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special, a bottling that stands out for its quality and unique production narrative.
Old Fitzgerald VVS comprises a 13-year-old bourbon that has captured the attention of connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. This spirit is part of the Decanter Series—a collection designed to celebrate the storied history of the Old Fitzgerald label, which originally dates back to 1870. However, this particular release marks a special milestone, celebrated as a 25th anniversary edition since Heaven Hill acquired Bernheim Distillery in the late 1990s.
What makes Old Fitzgerald VVS even more remarkable is its relatively rare release schedule. Unlike regular expressions within the Decanter Series, this maroon-labeled bourbon is only the third of its kind produced. To ensure its premium quality, Heaven Hill opted to keep the bourbon in non-reactive vessels once it reached its noteworthy age, effectively preserving its character without further maturation.
The sensory experience of Old Fitzgerald VVS is anything but ordinary. Its aromatic profile opens up with the inviting scent of baked fruits layered with hints of cinnamon—a nod to its rich heritage. The palate reveals a complex tapestry of flavors that include leather, candied plums, and the distinct smokiness of cedar. This unique combination sets it apart from many bourbons of similar age, which tend to be less intricate. A gentle finish transports the drinker through notes of pipe tobacco and barrel char, leaving a lingering warmth that begs to be savored.
Moreover, the wheated mashbill of Old Fitzgerald, consisting of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley, contributes to its soft and approachable character. This method of production has gained a dedicated following, especially among fans of other esteemed wheated bourbons, including Pappy Van Winkle and WL Weller. Collectively, these characteristics place Old Fitzgerald amongst top-tier bourbons, highlighting its deserved recognition at the WWA.
While the acclaim is thrilling for enthusiasts, the price tag also reveals a harsher reality. The suggested retail price of Old Fitzgerald VVS was positioned at $230, yet the rarity of this bottling has propelled its value well beyond this figure on the secondary market. Such discrepancies highlight a growing trend among whiskey consumers, where exclusive releases can often see prices skyrocket in response to demand.
As the spirits landscape continues to evolve, with competitions like the World Whiskies Awards at the forefront, one thing remains clear: the pursuit of the perfect pour drives both innovation and appreciation within the world of whisky. From the talented individuals crafting these libations to the experts assessing their quality, the tradition and craftsmanship of bourbon remain alive and deeply celebrated.
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