American Whiskey Magazine March 2020

I’d say that by now it’s a relatively safe bet to say that you’ll have had quite enough of the “new year, new me” chat, and that’s before we even start talking about how many questionable photos from 10 years ago that I’ve seen during the last month or so. Too many is the answer, far too many. We really do love a new start, but why is it that before that can happen we need to spend so much time reflecting? It makes sense, I suppose, to learn from your mistakes… and of course your triumphs (sorry, I’m trying to be more positive in 2020 for the sake of my colleagues – not that we’re calling it a resolution). In the spirit of reflection, it seems like quite the poignant…

SPONSORED BY GLENCAIRN CRYSTAL Whisky Live London Friday 27 & Saturday 28 March 2020 Whisky Live is returning to London this year with more exhibitors than ever. Book your tickets now! The world’s premier whiskey-tasting show returns to the stunning surroundings of the Honourable Artillery Company in London on March 27 and 28, 2020. This historic 18thcentury mansion, set in a six-acre garden just a stone’s throw from Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations, provides a truly memorable backdrop to a great whiskey experience. With a brand new whiskey-themed menu for 2020, chocolate and cigar pairings, book signings, masterclasses, the VIP Lounge and exclusive private VIP pourings, Whisky Live London 2020 welcomes visitors from across the globe who are looking to explore their favorite drop. Producers from all four corners of the globe gather to showcase their…

My grandmother is 97 years old. She doesn’t say much these days, but when she speaks it can often be profound. One thing she has said the last few times I have seen her is, “I wish we had more time.” In November I was judging the World Whiskies Awards in Washington, DC. The judges were a selection of amazing folks from all over the country, ranging from distillers to spirits writers to bar owners. Among my friends there was Lew Bryson, who commented that he wished we had more time to catch up. It made me start thinking back to my grandma’s comments and how profound they really are. Many of the friends I’ve made over the years are people I see repeatedly at different events. We have such a short…

The Icons of Whisky USA are presented in New York, celebrating the American whiskey world’s top people, bars, producers and retailers. As you would expect with the everincreasing growth in the industry, the range of brands and people to choose from this year has grown exponentially and bodes well for the future of whiskey. We are very pleased to announce the winners and highly commended results here in American Whiskey Magazine. DISTILLER OF THE YEAR Buffalo Trace HIGHLY COMMENDED Michter’s CRAFT PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Dad’s Hat HIGHLY COMMENDED Colkegan SUSTAINABLE DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR Old Forester HIGHLY COMMENDED Bulleit Distilling Co. BRAND INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR Balcones Distilling HIGHLY COMMENDED Old Forester VISITOR ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR Buffalo Trace HIGHLY COMMENDED A. Smith Bowman Distillery MASTER DISTILLER/MASTER BLENDER OF THE YEAR Brent Elliott, Four Roses HIGHLY COMMENDED Chris Morris, Woodford Reserve DISTILLERY MANAGER OF THE YEAR Scott Sell, Westland Distillery HIGHLY COMMENDED Steve Bashore, George Washington Distillery AMERICAN WHISKEY AMBASSADOR…

Alongside our Icons award winners, sister publication Whisky Magazine has inducted two new members to the Hall of Fame, honouring their incredible contributions to the whiskey world. We welcome Peggy Noe Stevens, founder and president of Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates and Frank Coleman, senior advisor to the CEO at the Distilled Spirits Council, to the Hall of Fame. It's no great surprise that these individuals are being welcomed to the fold after years of industry success – congratulations! Peggy Noe Stevens Founder and president, Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates Peggy Noe Stevens has devoted herself to 30 years of hospitality, entertaining and developing spirit brand destinations. A master Bourbon taster, she began her career in hospitality and marketing with Hyatt Hotels Corporation before moving to Brown-Forman Corporation. While there, she was also given…

As is to be expected with the incredible growth we have been witnessing in the American whiskey industry, across the full spectrum from craft to conglomerate, it has been yet another great year for the World Whiskies Awards. We are thrilled to announce the winner results, including the World's Best Bourbon, World's Best Single Barrel Bourbon and World's Best Tennessee whiskey and the Best winner results from the US. Ironroot Republic Harbinger 115 PROOF | 57.5% ABV A punch of alcohol on the nose, kettle corn, salted caramel and vanilla. Full-bodied and strong with a caramel sweetness, liquorice and dried fruits. Rounding out with a long finish of oak and spice. Rebel Yell Single Barrel 10 Years Old 100 PROOF | 50% ABV A sweet nose with salted caramel, vanilla and chocolate. Nice balance of spice in flavor with…