2023 SFWSC Best Of Class American Whiskey Finalists

by The Tasting Alliance Team  |  05.15.2023


An elegant bottle of Breckenridge two clans blended whiskey behind a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Breckenridge Two Clans Blended American Whiskey

Breckenridge Two Clans Blended American Whiskey, an American gem embraced as an unheralded “Scotch.” Fusing un-peated whiskey with peated Scotch from Scotland’s Highlands yields an unparalleled complexity. The Dark Arts American Single Malt Whiskey forms the foundation, reflecting Bryan Nolt’s visionary distillery genesis. Dark Arts, an adored cult whiskey, impresses with its massive, malty, and chocolatey character. 2 Clans marks the inaugural release, skillfully interweaving delicate, traditional Scotch accents. Embrace this sophisticated whiskey project.


A fancy bottle of Whiskey War Barrel Select in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Whiskey War Barrel Select – Double Double Pinot Noir

Indulge in the sensory masterpiece of High Bank Distillery Co. Whiskey War Barrel Select. Its alluring nose reveals ethereal notes of orange blossom, dark fig, Autumn honey, orange grape, and kumquats, interlaced with whispers of oak spice and eucalyptus leaf. The palate unfolds with medium-bodied opulence, a symphony of luscious orange blossom, figs, and a caress of oak spice, complemented by the velvety sweetness of Sangiovese wine. A delicate touch of vanilla and a luxuriant creaminess linger, while the lingering finish delights with captivating notes of figs, orange blossom, vanilla, and oak spice. This whiskey embodies refined elegance, inviting connoisseurs on a captivating journey of taste and aroma.


An elegant bottle of Pacific Coast Spirits American Single Malt Whiskey in front of a white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Pacific Coast Spirits American Single Malt

Immerse yourself in this limited Single Malt whiskey. Crafted from 100% barley, it unveils bold notes of stone fruits, roasted flavors, and a lingering taste of chocolate. Aged 6 years in New American Oak Char #3 barrels, it delights with a bright malt nose. Savor it neat or with an ice cube, or indulge in an elevated Old Fashioned.


An elegant bottle of Stranahan's Blue Peak with a blue label in front of a white background.

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Stranahan’s Blue Peak Single Malt

Embark on a summit of flavors with Stranahan’s® Blue Peak™ Single Malt Whiskey. Double-distilled at high altitude and aged for 4 years, it exudes a warm, toasted character. Indulge in creamy butterscotch, brown sugar, and baked apples, with hints of cayenne and toasted oak. Dried apricot, nutmeg, and cinnamon toast greet the nose, while a rich, mellow finish unveils earthy malt and lingering spices. This 750ml bottle delivers a captivating journey in every sip.


Elegant bottle of Triple 8 The Notch Nantucket Whisky in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Triple Eight Distillery The Notch Nantucket Island Single Malt Whisky

Experience the extraordinary craftsmanship of Triple Eight Distillery with The Notch Nantucket Island Single Malt Whisky, aged for 8 years. Indulge in the enticing aromas of toasted honeycomb, exuding a malty richness and hints of barley sugar. Immerse your senses in the luscious flavors of dark berries and delicate floral elements, complemented by a touch of oak fieriness. This exceptional whisky offers a remarkable journey through its carefully nurtured flavors.


An elegant bottle of Westland Distillery Solum Edition 1 in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Solum Edition 1

Embark on a captivating journey with Westland Distillery Solum Edition 1. Crafted from American peated malt, this limited annual release unveils familiar peat notes alongside fresh fuji apple, charred wood, and complex herbal tones. Experience the allure of this exceptional whiskey, pushing the boundaries of American peat.


An elegant bottle of Cedar Ridge Distillery The QuintEssential Batch 010 in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Cedar Ridge Distillery The QuintEssential Batch 010

Discover the extraordinary depth of Cedar Ridge Distillery’s The QuintEssential Batch 010. Their American Single Malt Whiskey is elevated by the infusion of fresh, once-used barrels, including wine and Port casks. Each unique finishing cask adds complexity and a touch of intrigue, crafting a blend that surprises and delights with every sip. Prepare to embark on a remarkable whiskey journey like no other.


An elegant bottle of Lost Lantern Gentle Giant Balcones Distilling Texas in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: Lost Lantern “Gentle Giant” Balcones Distilling Texas

Revel in the essence of fresh apple, gentle oak, subtle spice, and an enduring, lingering finish. Embark on a sensory journey that defies expectations. Balcones Distilling, a renowned Texas pioneer, unveils a hidden treasure: a delicate and refined whiskey, showcasing their mastery beyond intensity. In close collaboration, they’ve curated a marriage of five and a half casks, resulting in a soft, fruit-forward, and elegant Texas single malt. Crafted from 100% malted barley, this exquisite blend harmonizes European oak, ex-bourbon, and ex-apple brandy casks.


An elegant bottle of ASW Distillery Red X Single Malt Whiskey in front of a plain white background

Best American Whiskey Finalist: ASW Distillery Red X Single Malt Whiskey

An enigmatic gem indeed, Red X Whiskey, emerges from the Whiskey Crypt in a spellbinding micro-batch. Crafted from German Red X malted barley, renowned for its vivacious presence in red ales, and distilled on Scottish-style copper pot stills, this transcendent elixir defies convention. Infused with Georgia Heartwood essence, akin to our revered Fiddler Georgia Heartwood Bourbon, it unveils a symphony of flavors. Savor the captivating notes of this 100-proof masterpiece, as it enchants the palate with unparalleled intensity.