The International Wine and Spirits’ inaugural Global Judging event, focusing specifically on North American whiskey, concluded in September in Kentucky, a state long recognized as the heartland of bourbon production. With nearly 500 bottles evaluated by a skilled panel of judges, the anticipation surrounding this event was palpable. The outcome, which saw over 430 medals awarded—including an impressive 30 gold and four outstanding gold medals—validates not only the quality of the entries but also the passion and dedication of the distillers behind them.
One judge, Dawn Davies MW, emphasized the astonishing level of craftsmanship displayed by the distilleries. Her insights hinted at the presence of innovative cask finishes and unique grain variances that contributed to the rich tasting experience. This attention to detail was not only commendable but revealed the evolving landscape of the bourbon industry, where traditional methods meet modern experimentation, delighting the palate and invigorating the senses.
While a broad array of whiskey categories was examined, bourbon took center stage at the event, with a remarkable nine Kentucky straight bourbons earning gold medals. Most notably, the only outstanding gold award in the bourbon category went to Kentucky Peerless Distilling for their Toasted Bourbon. This victory is significant, especially considering the fierce competition from renowned brands like Blanton’s and George T. Stagg, which solidifies Peerless’s status within an elite group of distillers.
Founded in 1889, Peerless was a historic gem in Kentucky’s bourbon landscape until Prohibition shuttered its doors. The distillery has recently enjoyed a renaissance, thanks to the efforts of Corky Taylor and his son Carson, who reintroduced the Peerless brand in 2015. Their commitment to producing premium, small-batch whiskey is evident as they honor the legacy of their ancestors while forging a fresh path in today’s spirits market.
What differentiates Peerless from many of its competitors is its stringent grain-to-bottle approach. The distillery takes a hands-on stance, ensuring that every aspect of production—from ingredient selection to fermentation—is managed internally. By employing a sweet mash method, they start each fermentation with a new mash, leading to a cleaner, more refined flavor profile as opposed to the traditional sour mash process.
Additionally, their forgoing of chill filtration allows the bourbon to retain more of its natural textures and flavors, contributing to the overall richness often associated with high-quality bourbons. Another intriguing aspect is their choice to fill barrels at a lower proof, around 107, which facilitates a smoother spirit with enhanced wood integration over time.
Peerless utilizes meticulously chosen American oak barrels, ensuring that their products age evenly. By maintaining a climate-controlled environment, they avoid the variable temperature swings that can adversely affect whiskey maturation, resulting in a bourbon that meets stringent flavor profiles rather than adhering purely to age statements.
The attention to detail extends into the final production of the Peerless Toasted Bourbon, which is matured in two distinct types of barrels—starting in a typical char 3 barrel that imparts initial flavors of caramel and brown sugar, before being transferred to a toasted barrel for a finishing touch. This two-step process enhances the complexity of the bourbon, yielding a profile that is both rich and multilayered.
Receiving an exceptional score of 98 out of 100 points, the Peerless Toasted Bourbon captivates with its aroma and flavor. Initial notes of sophisticated oak meld with delicate hints of orchard fruit and warming spices like cinnamon. Upon tasting, revelatory layers emerge, blending caramel richness with nutty subtleties and a piquant dash of black pepper, all enveloped in a creamy mouthfeel that invites further exploration.
The accolades received by Kentucky Peerless Distilling’s Toasted Bourbon are reflective of not only their innovative techniques but also their unwavering dedication to quality. This bourbon stands as a testament to the craft of distilling, illustrating how heritage and modern methodology can converge to create outstanding spirits. As bourbon enthusiasts continue to seek out unique profiles, Peerless Distilling showcases what can be achieved with a commitment to excellence, inviting both connoisseurs and newcomers alike to discover the magic held within each bottle.