The Single Barrel Bourbon category represents the pinnacle of individuality in American whiskey. Each barrel tells its own story — shaped by time, environment, and the careful stewardship of the distiller. At the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition, judges were treated to exceptional expressions that celebrated the precision and personality that define single-barrel craftsmanship.

Few names are as revered in the bourbon world as Blanton’s. Credited with pioneering the single barrel category, Blanton’s has long set the gold standard for quality, consistency, and elegance. The Gold Edition exemplifies that legacy — a sophisticated expression reserved for those who appreciate balance, depth, and complexity in every sip. Graceful yet powerful, this release captivated judges with its nuanced interplay of fruit, oak, and spice — earning Blanton’s Gold Edition the title of Best Single Barrel Bourbon at the 2025 competition.

A bold newcomer in the whiskey landscape, Bourbiskey brings a modern edge to classic bourbon-making traditions. The brand’s Mark Fury Straight Bourbon exemplifies its dedication to crafting expressive, unapologetically robust spirits that balance power with precision. With its layered texture and long, confident finish, Mark Fury Straight Bourbon impressed judges as a compelling, modern interpretation of single barrel excellence — one that stands shoulder to shoulder with the category’s most established names.

This year’s finalists prove that the art of single barrel bourbon remains as dynamic and expressive as ever. From the timeless elegance of Blanton’s to the bold innovation of Bourbiskey, each bottle reflects the individuality and craftsmanship that continue to define the best of American whiskey.