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Best Canadian Whiskies from the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Canadian Whiskey

The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition showcased the excellence of Canadian whisky, with three standout expressions that captivated the judges. These whiskies exemplify the craftsmanship and diversity of Canada's whisky heritage.

J.P. Wiser's Decades Series: 28-Year-Old Canadian Whisky

Distilled in 1996 and aged for 28 years in a combination of Canadian whisky casks, French oak, Hungarian oak, and ex-bourbon barrels, this limited-edition release is a rare and refined achievement. Made with 90% double column-distilled corn and just under 10% single column-distilled rye, it’s a masterclass in balance and complexity.

Fragrant honey and green apple on the nose lead into notes of crème brûlée, ripe peaches, cocoa, and leather. The palate reveals indulgent layers of crushed walnuts, French vanilla, and toasted oak, finishing with a warm touch of cinnamon that lingers gracefully.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Crown Royal 32-Year-Old Canadian Whisky

This record-setting release from Crown Royal is the oldest whisky the brand has ever bottled. Matured for over three decades, it’s a deeply nuanced spirit that reflects Crown Royal’s commitment to aged perfection and its position as a global whisky icon.

Soft floral aromas unfold into a bouquet of aged oak, vanilla, and warm baking spices. The sip is extraordinarily smooth.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Pendleton Midnight Brandy Cask Canadian Whisky

Pendleton Midnight Whiskey is a super-premium, blended Canadian Whiskey made with pure, glacier-fed spring water from Oregon’s Mt. Hood, delivering complex taste and an exceptionally smooth finish. A portion of the blend is aged for over six years in American brandy barrels for a truly authentic flavor. So when you’re gathered ‘round the campfire at the end of a long day, savor the moment and make it Midnight.

Opens with musky leather on the nose, touched by cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and ginger. The palate is full and well-rounded, showcasing coffee cake, roasted nuts, caramelized banana, and candied figs. It finishes with a warm smolder of spice, pecan, and walnut that satisfies long after the final sip.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Canadian whisky has long been admired for its elegance and approachability—but these award-winning bottles prove it can also deliver exceptional age, complexity, and character. Whether you're discovering Canadian whisky for the first time or deepening your collection, the 2025 winners are a superb place to start.

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