The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition has unveiled its finalists for the Special Barrel-Finished Whiskey category, highlighting exceptional expressions that showcase innovative finishing techniques. Each contender brings a unique profile, reflecting the artistry and dedication of their respective distilleries. The winner will be announced at the prestigious Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala.

Hailing from the Scottish Highlands, 1933 Macleod's presents a single malt Scotch whisky finished in hand-selected Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. This finishing imparts a rich palate of dried fruits, woody spice, and vanilla, culminating in a long finish with notes of chocolate, molasses, clove, and citrus .

A bold experiment from the heart of the Hudson Valley, Hudson Whiskey NY’s Calvados Cask Finish Rye offers an apple-forward twist on American rye. Finished in Calvados (apple brandy) casks, this expression layers vibrant fruit with warm baking spice and earthy rye character. It’s a tribute to the brand’s inventive spirit and its deep connection to local New York agriculture and heritage.

New Riff Distilling offers a stunning 100% malted rye whiskey finished in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. The dual-cask finish creates a complex interplay between dried fruit sweetness and the spicy richness of malted rye. It’s a modern take on a classic style, with the kind of depth that rewards slow sipping.

Crafted in Colorado, Art of the Spirits honors military service with its premium, small-batch releases, and the Devil Dog Cigar Blend is no exception. Designed to pair beautifully with a fine cigar, this whiskey delivers rich layers of cinnamon, vanilla, rye spice, and caramel, wrapped in oak and complexity. It’s bold, heartfelt, and a standout tribute to craftsmanship and character.

Renowned for its innovation and ultra-modern facility in Kentucky, Bardstown Bourbon Company introduces a rye whiskey finished in toasted cherry wood and oak barrels for 12 months. This experimental barrel finish delivers a burst of ripe cherry and cinnamon, grounded in the richness of toasted oak and a chewy, satisfying texture. It’s part of the ReserveBar Topflight Series, which showcases bold single-barrel selections by their expert team.

The Special Barrel-Finished Whiskey category is a shining example of how tradition and innovation can work in harmony to produce truly memorable spirits. Each of these finalists exemplifies not just technical skill but also a willingness to push the boundaries of what whiskey can be through thoughtful and creative finishing techniques. The winner will be crowned at the Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala, a celebration of the most exceptional achievements in the world of spirits. Until then, these remarkable whiskeys deserve a spot on your shelf and in your glass.