The 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition has brought together the finest bourbons from across the United States, showcasing the craftsmanship and dedication of small-batch distillers. This year, the Best Small Batch Bourbon – Up to 5 Years category features remarkable entries that stand out for their flavor, balance, and unique profiles.
Old Hansford Cask Strength Bourbon
Old Hansford Cask Strength Bourbon is a bold and robust offering from Texas. Known for its high proof and intense flavor, this bourbon is a favorite among those who appreciate a strong, character-filled whiskey.
Tasting Notes:
- A touch of sweetness and spice
- Notes of caramel, oak, and dark chocolate
- Flavors of toffee, spice, and a hint of dried fruit
Smokeye Hill Straight Bourbon Whiskey Barrel Proof
Distilled in the scenic landscapes of Colorado, this bourbon offers a unique profile that is both powerful and nuanced.
Tasting Notes:
- Aromas of dark fruit, oak, and a hint of smoke
- Intense and layered with flavors of vanilla, spice, and a touch of tobacco
- Complex interplay of sweet and smoky notes
Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut, Batch #12
Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut, Batch #12 is a testament to the dedication and precision of the Frey Ranch Distillery. This uncut bourbon showcases the raw, unfiltered beauty of small-batch production.
Tasting Notes:
- Fresh and vibrant with notes of green apple, caramel, and a hint of spice
- Flavors of honey, vanilla, and a touch of oak
Storyhouse Spirits Straight Bourbon
Distilled in the heart of California, this bourbon is known for its smooth and elegant profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Vanilla, honey, and a touch of citrus
- Balanced with flavors of caramel, oak, and a hint of spice
Neeley Family Distillery Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series One Batch 23B
Described by judges as a perfectly balanced bourbon, Neeley Family Distillery’s Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Series One Batch 23B exemplifies the best of Kentucky bourbon tradition.
Tasting Notes:
- Rich and inviting with notes of caramel, spice, and a hint of dried fruit
- Toffee, vanilla, and a touch of oak
These finalists for the Best Small Batch Bourbon – Up to 5 Years represent the pinnacle of bourbon craftsmanship. Each one brings its own unique story and flavor profile to the competition, making the race for the ultimate award at Top Shelf 2024 a highly anticipated event!
