In the heart of Denver, Colorado, the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) held its annual convention, an event that dates back to 1943. This gathering is not merely a formality; it is a vital confluence of knowledge, networking, and advocacy that draws over 3,000 participants, including more than 370 members from various sectors of the beverage alcohol distribution industry. WSWA’s mission is clear: to champion legislative and regulatory policies that benefit distributors and ensure the vibrancy of the alcohol market. Moreover, one of the highlights of the convention involves the judging of wines and spirits, with the Tasting Alliance playing a crucial role in determining which products stand out in a crowded market.
This year’s conference centered around the theme of recognition for quality, with anticipation building as judges announced the best wines and spirits available today. Of particular interest to connoisseurs was the award for “Best of Show Whiskey” for the coming 2025 year, a title that has historically reflected not just popularity, but also the caliber of craftsmanship that goes into each selected spirit.
In an exciting twist, the accolade for Best of Show Whiskey was awarded to Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon from Calumet Farm, a distillery located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This particular release has not yet hit the shelves, but the hype surrounding it is tangible. The bottle’s specifications reveal a non-chill filtered, 118-proof whiskey, made from a mash bill composed of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley. Such a combination, paired with its age, raises eyebrows and speculation within industry circles. Many experts point to a likely shared lineage with Barton 1792, a distillery known for producing exceptional bourbons.
What makes this bourbon particularly noteworthy is not just its origins, but also how it presents itself upon tasting. The whiskey invites drinkers into a sensory experience, offering aromas reminiscent of peppered stone fruits. Tasting notes reveal classic bourbon flavors of vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon but elevated to a remarkable degree, enhanced by its rich mouthfeel and potent ABV. The finish is a connoisseur’s dream, wrapping up with layers of crème brûlée and candied apple—a delightful culmination of an expertly crafted spirit.
Calumet Farm’s distillation laboratory has made it a point to celebrate tradition and craftsmanship. Their recent statement on the whiskey captures this sentiment beautifully: “Crafted at peak convergence for flavor and a robust, traditional Kentucky profile, this bourbon truly shows the patience and dedication it takes to be a champion.” This is hardly an overstatement; it encapsulates the essence of bourbon production in the Bluegrass State, where the fusion of history and innovation plays a crucial role in creating world-class spirits.
Marked as a notable offering in a brand that commenced its journey in 2013, the Centennial 18-Year-Old is a part of their centenary celebrations of the namesake farm in Lexington, Kentucky. The bourbon comes in an elegantly designed trophy decanter, reflecting both its heritage and prestige. It is not just a product but a tribute, flaunting a gold label that conveys exclusivity and character.
As many whiskey enthusiasts eagerly await its release, the price point sits at a formidable $499 per bottle. This places Centennial 18-Year-Old in the luxury market, asserting itself as a collector’s item poised to grace the top shelves of private bars and restaurants alike. With a price tag that reflects its rarity and craftsmanship, it invites not just consumption but reverence for the art of whiskey-making.
Overall, the WSWA convention serves as a crucial touchpoint in the beverage alcohol industry, showcasing exceptional products like the Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon. As the landscape of whiskey continues to evolve, events such as these highlight the importance of quality, tradition, and innovation, paving the way for both established brands and emerging producers to capture the attention—and palate—of whiskey aficionados around the globe.