Skip to main content

Best Single Grain Whiskey from the 2025 SFWSC

Single Grain Whiskey

Each year, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) brings together the world's finest distillers in a celebration of craft, innovation, and excellence. Among the most compelling categories is Single Grain Whiskey — a showcase of unique grains, experimental finishes, and standout expressions from across the globe. This year’s finalists exemplify the artistry and diversity of the category, spanning countries from Ireland to Japan to the American West.

The official winner of Best Single Grain Whiskey will be revealed during the Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala. Ahead of the big announcement, explore the extraordinary finalists that rose to the top in this prestigious category.

Frey Ranch 100% Barley Whiskey

Located in the high desert of Northern Nevada, Frey Ranch is a true grain-to-glass distillery, where fifth-generation farmers Colby and Ashley Frey grow all their grains onsite. Their 100% unmalted barley whiskey is a standout for its bold deviation from the norm.

The whiskey opens with the fresh, green vibrancy of a florist shop, followed by a bright and flavorful palate and a long, complex finish that lingers beautifully.

This whiskey proves that you don’t need malt to make magic; just a deep respect for the grain and the patience to let complexity bloom.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Taichung Distillery Cask Strength Single Grain Whisky – Wheat Bourbon Barrel

Crafted by Taiwan’s Taichung Distillery, this cask-strength wheat whisky is matured in ex-bourbon barrels, highlighting the vibrant energy of its grain and the character of its cask. It’s a bold, full-bodied expression from one of Asia’s most dynamic distilleries.

The nose opens with a lively burst of white pepper spice, seamlessly intertwined with the freshness of oak, setting a vibrant tone. The palate is rich, with a spirited finish.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Taichung Distillery Cask Strength Single Grain Whisky – Wheat Sherry Barrel

This sister expression from Taichung Distillery is aged in sherry barrels, which brings a softer, fruit-forward personality to the same wheat grain base. The result is a whisky that emphasizes roundness, sweetness, and balance.

Aromas of a fruit basket give way to ripe apple and pear on the palate, finishing rich and warm.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Okinawa Island Blue Whisky – The Wakoku made with Hinohikari Rice Shochu from Oita Prefecture

A bridge between whisky and shochu, Okinawa Island Blue’s Wakoku is made from Hinohikari rice grown in Oita Prefecture and distilled with reverence for Okinawan tradition. The result is a hybrid whisky that’s subtle, soft, and distinctly Japanese.

Pleasing on the nose, satisfying and soft on the palate, with an easy, graceful finish.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

Teeling Single Grain Irish Whiskey

Based in the heart of Dublin, Teeling Whiskey continues to champion the resurgence of Irish whiskey. Their single grain release is matured in wine casks, offering a modern and well-balanced interpretation of the category.

Nicely developed with good restraint on the finishing, where the wine influence comes through but doesn’t take over the entire glass.

2025 SFWSC Judging Panel

This year’s finalists for Best Single Grain Whiskey showcase the global evolution of this dynamic category — from American innovation and Irish tradition to Asian experimentation. Whether made with barley, wheat, or rice, these expressions are united by a commitment to quality, creativity, and a bold sense of place. Stay tuned for the official announcement at the Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala, where one of these remarkable whiskeys will be crowned the category champion.

RELATED

EDIT