Last month marked an important occasion in the spirits industry with the New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC), where experts convened to evaluate and honor the finest bottles available. This year’s competition brought together a distinguished panel comprised of liquor writers, bartenders, and industry craftspeople, all gathering in a Brooklyn convention hall to taste their way through hundreds of entries. The esteemed panel-led judging resulted in a series of awards that ranged from Bronze to the ultimate accolade of Best In Show. Among the fierce lineup of competitors, one unlikely contender captured the highest honor—the 18-Year-Old American Straight Whiskey from Lasso Motel.
What makes Lasso Motel’s whiskey stand out in a saturated market? The answer lies in its unconventional composition. This whiskey, launched just last week, is an impressive 120-proof embodiment constructed from a mashbill of 99% corn and just 1% malted barley. It hails from MGP, renowned for high-quality whiskey production in Indiana, and has been aged entirely in used bourbon barrels, a process diverging from the strict regulations that typically define bourbon production. In bourbon-making, it is essential to use new, charred oak barrels. By foregoing this requirement, Lasso Motel’s whiskey was able to mature gracefully over 18 years, avoiding the rapid over-oakiness that often afflicts similarly aged bourbons.
When one first encounters the Lasso Motel 18-Year-Old, the aromatic experience strikes with inviting caramel notes that dance on the nose. As the whiskey flows over the palate, it transitions into a rich medley of toffee and maple syrup, making it a dreamy experience to savor. Despite its high proof, the whiskey boasts a remarkably buttery smooth mouthfeel that is challenging to find in spirits with such elevated alcohol content. The experience culminates in a long finish characterized by the delightful taste of dried stone fruits, subtly enhanced with a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Unlike many dessert spirits that can draw the palate towards saccharine sweetness, Lasso Motel’s offering strikes a balance, allowing the richness of its flavors to shine without overwhelming the senses. This whiskey is a quintessential choice for those looking to explore a decadent finish while remaining rooted in classic American whiskey traditions.
The praise for Lasso Motel’s 18-Year-Old Whiskey has not gone unnoticed in industry circles. Notable spirits author Aaron Goldfarb, one of the judges at NYWSC, admitted he was initially unsure about the definition of American straight whiskey but recognized Lasso Motel’s standing with confidence, declaring it the best whiskey of the tasting session. Such accolades are noteworthy when considering the high-caliber competition from premier brands across the globe. This recognition represents a momentous introduction for Lasso Motel as it boldly enters the beverage market.
As Lasso Motel begins distribution, it will initially be available in Texas and Florida, with plans for nationwide shipping through Seelbach’s. The brand is not merely introducing this award-winning single expression but also plans to showcase a collection of 13 cask-finished whiskeys, predominantly bottled at 100-proof, all retailing at approximately $70. However, for those eager to sample the celebrated 18-Year-Old, expect to invest $130—a price tag that reflects its unique aging process and coveted award status.
Lasso Motel’s ascension in the whiskey realm may redefine consumer expectations and exemplify the potential for innovation within the category. With its rich heritage and the promise of forthcoming offerings, the brand is poised to inspire whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike. Furthermore, the 2024 Best In Show recognition sets a high bar for both the brand and the industry, heralding a new chapter in American whiskey lore.