The recent annual convention of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) in Denver, Colorado, has once again demonstrated the vital role that networking and collaboration play within the beverage alcohol industry. Established in 1943, the WSWA is recognized as the foremost national association of distributors, culminating in a three-day event that attracted over 3,700 participants this year. This convergence serves not only as a platform for discussing regulatory issues but also as a space for brand representatives, retailers, and suppliers to connect, share ideas, and promote the appreciation of spirits and wines.
The WSWA convention is characterized by its advocacy efforts on behalf of distributors, addressing crucial federal, state, and legal matters. More than just legal discussions, the event showcases the cultural significance of spirits through competitions that celebrate the finest offerings within the industry. Utilizing the expertise of the Tasting Alliance, the results of this year’s awards for the best wines and spirits have spurred glamour and excitement, especially with the announcement of this year’s “Best of Show Whiskey.”
As anticipation grew, bourbon enthusiasts received thrilling news: the title for Best of Show Whiskey was awarded to Centennial 18-Year-Old Bourbon from Calumet Farm, a non-distilling producer located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. What makes this accolade especially fascinating is the whiskey’s exclusive nature—set to debut in the new calendar year, it has already emerged as a topic of vibrant discussions among whiskey lovers.
Crafted using a carefully balanced mashbill of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley, this non-chill filtered bourbon boasts an impressive alcohol content of 118 proof. While the source of the whiskey remains undisclosed by Calumet Farm, many industry insiders speculate that its origins may lie within the Barton 1792 distillery, based on its mashbill and extended aging process.
Pouring a dram of Centennial 18-Year-Old is an experience in itself. With its rich, mahogany color, the bourbon invites drinkers to savor it slowly. Initial aromas of peppered stone fruits captivate the senses and lead into a palate marked by the classic sweetness of vanilla, luscious caramel, and playful hints of cinnamon. What sets this whiskey apart is the heightened intensity and complexity of these typical bourbon flavors, all skillfully mingling with a velvety mouthfeel. The finish is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing lasting notes of crème brûlée and candied apple, encapsulating the spirit’s exceptional craftsmanship.
Calumet Farm’s pride in their creation is palpable, as they commend the bourbon for being “crafted at peak convergence for flavor” and embodying the enduring legacy of a traditional Kentucky profile. Their commitment to quality reflects the essence of the bourbon, making it a noteworthy entry in their portfolio—especially significant as it coincides with the centenary celebration of the Calumet Farm grounds, known for their rich agricultural history.
The Centennial 18-Year-Old is not just a celebration of great flavor; it also bridges the consumer experience with luxury. Packaged in a stunning trophy-like decanter, this elegant bottle is designed to stand out on any home bar. Yet, it comes with a price—retailing at approximately $499. This positioning suggests that Calumet Farm is not merely selling whiskey; they are marketing an experience and an honorific toast to tradition.
As the bourbon world continues to evolve, offerings like Calumet Farm’s Centennial 18-Year-Old serve as benchmarks for others in the industry, promising remarkable quality while celebrating the significant milestones that shape bourbon’s narrative today. With its noteworthy acclaim at the WSWA convention, this bourbon is set to grab the attention it rightfully deserves. For industry aficionados and casual drinkers alike, the anticipation surrounding its release is a testament to bourbon’s enduring appeal and the excellence that arises from painstaking craftsmanship.