Across the whiskey world, barrel finishing has emerged as one of the most dynamic frontiers of innovation—where tradition meets creativity, and distillers experiment with secondary casks to build new layers of flavor and texture. From port and sherry to rum and wine barrels, these finishing techniques add distinctive complexity to already exceptional spirits. At the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition, the Special Barrel-Finished categories celebrated this spirit of exploration, showcasing bottles that transcend convention. Leading the field this year were Garrison Brothers Guadalupe, named Best of Class Special Barrel-Finished Bourbon, and 10th Street Peated Single Malt Port Cask Finish, awarded Best of Class Special Barrel-Finished Whisk(e)y.

Texas-based Garrison Brothers Distillery has earned a reputation for crafting bold, full-flavored bourbons that reflect the rugged spirit of their home state. Known as Texas’ first legal bourbon distillery, Garrison Brothers consistently pushes boundaries in American whiskey through innovative techniques and uncompromising craftsmanship.

Their Guadalupe expression exemplifies this philosophy. A port-cask–finished bourbon, Guadalupe balances the sweetness of dessert wine with the deep, hearty character of Garrison’s high-proof bourbon. The result is a spirit that bridges richness and refinement, offering a decadent experience for seasoned bourbon drinkers and newcomers alike.

Based in San Jose, California, 10th Street Distillery brings a fresh, West Coast perspective to the centuries-old art of single malt whiskey. Known for melding Scottish distilling traditions with American innovation, 10th Street’s portfolio often highlights their signature use of peat—a rarity among American producers.

The Peated Single Malt Port Cask Finish showcases this unique approach beautifully. By marrying the smoky depth of peat with the fruit-forward sweetness of port cask maturation, 10th Street has created a whiskey that feels simultaneously familiar and surprising. It’s a testament to how finishing can transform the sensory journey of a spirit.

As whiskey fans continue to seek depth and discovery in every glass, barrel finishing remains one of the most exciting techniques driving the category forward. These Best of Class medalists of the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition exemplify how careful cask selection and expert blending can transform great whiskey into something extraordinary. Whether it’s Garrison Brothers’ lush port-finished bourbon or 10th Street’s smoky, fruit-laced single malt, this year’s honorees prove that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully.