The 2024 Whiskeyfellow Awards are Out!

 

Each trip around the sun seems to go faster than the last. It is already the middle of December, and that must mean it is time to announce the 2024 Whiskeyfellow Awards.

 

If you think this is yet another list of whiskeys that you’ll never be able to get your hands on, that’s not how the Whiskeyfellow Awards work. Forget the stuff you can only read about in your social media feeds – you’ll not find Pappy Van Anything on this list.

 

You see, all my reviews are written for the average whiskey drinker - because that’s who I am. Sure, I occasionally get something impossible to find (or afford), but those aren’t my daily drinkers. My “Best Of” whiskeys are no different.

 

For any whiskey to even be considered, it must meet the following four criteria:

 

1.  It must have been something I’ve tasted and reviewed since I published the previous year’s awards. I don’t have a team of interns and don’t take suggestions from outsiders. No one buys their way into an award – unlike some competitions, no entry fees are involved. The only nose and palate involved is my own.

 

2.  It must be reasonably affordable. I tend to put a cap of $150.00 for my awarded whiskeys. That’s about the most I’d pay for any whiskey, and I’d assume the average whiskey drinker also has that kind of ceiling.  

 

3.  It must be reasonably easy to find. I’m not suggesting that you can walk into any liquor store to find, yet it also won’t be something you’d have to sell your soul to see in person, let alone acquire. When you do, hopefully, you won’t have some store owner or manager charging secondary prices (that I can’t help). 

 

4.  It must not be a private barrel pick. I love store picks. I love picking barrels. But, the average whiskey drinker outside the store’s or club’s locale typically can’t get their hands on a bottle. 

The bottom line is that for a “Best Of” list to have any value for the average whiskey drinker, it must contain whiskeys you can actually drink. Otherwise, what’s the point?

 

I’ve never understood how reviewers can name the Best Whiskey before the year ends (some publish theirs in September!). That’s why I wait until December to hand out awards.

 

I also occasionally tweak the categories. Four years ago, I added a Please Santa? category. It allowed me to violate all the above rules when I encountered something mind-blowing. In 2022, I added The Sleeper category, which reflects a whiskey that came out of nowhere and blew my mind. I also added a Flavored Whiskey category. All three carry over into 2024.

 

Here's the weird thing. For the last three years, I’ve refused to name a  Whiskey of the Year - with the stupendous quality some of these whiskeys possess, labeling one for Best in Show becomes futile.

 

I used to include links to my reviews of what wins in a category. Every year I’ve published my list, a particular social media platform that shall remain anonymous (cough cough Meta cough cough) has flagged my post and shut it down, accusing it of being “clickbait.” I stopped doing it three years ago; magically, no flag was thrown. You can search for these whiskey reviews in my library. I will provide the date the review was published to assist you.

 

This year, I reviewed somewhere in the neighborhood of 215 whiskeys. That seems like a lot, right? Amazingly, I’ve not tasted whiskeys from every available niche. If you’re not seeing a category listed, it means one of two things: I didn’t drink anything in that category, or nothing from it was worthy of a “Best Of” award.

 

Also, there are instances where I had serious trouble picking the “best” of its respective categories. In those cases, there are awards for Best and Runner-Up. If you don’t see a Runner-Up, it means the decision was easy. 

 

All I care about is the liquid inside the bottle. It matters not if it is sourced or a brand’s distillate, if the packaging is pretty, or if any brand produced it.

 

And now, let’s get to it! Here’s the best of my #DrinkCurious journey for 2024:

 

American Single Malt

 

Best: Fireside Single Malt Peated Whiskey – Mile High Spirits

• Date reviewed: January 26, 2024
• Price: $65.00 for 750ml

 

With the first sip, it was warm enough to accept the stated proof. However, once that palate shock dispersed, additional sips caused me to recheck the label to ensure it was really 117°. It became surprisingly easy to sip, and the more I did, the butterier that texture became. The salted caramel notes shined brightly from start to finish. I found myself pouring a second glass. While it is a Scotch-style whiskey, it didn’t taste like any Scotch I can think of. 

For fun, I took a sip of Boulder Spirits Peated American Single Malt, the winner of my 2021 Best American Single Malt, to try these side-by-side. They had two completely different peat profiles. The Boulder Spirits expression’s peat was far softer. 

I’ll close this out by saying I loved everything about Mile High Spirits Fireside Single Malt Peated Whiskey. It earns every bit of my Bottle rating, and one to keep in mind come December.

 

 

Runner up: McCardell's Reserve American Single Malt Whiskey – Durango Craft Spirits

• Date reviewed: January 8, 2024
• Price:  $100 for 750ml

 

What goes around comes around. I applaud risk-taking, whether the end result is good or bad. Mike took one by using the Lambic malt. He took a second one by allowing to age the distillate longer than average for many Colorado distilleries. The transition from Cinder Dick to McCardell’s Reserve seems, well, seamless. It is appropriately proofed, which is proven by the taste and mouthfeel. If you’re a fan of the growing American Single Malt Whiskey category, you’ll want to grab a Bottle if you can find one. I’m happy to have it in my whiskey library.

 

 

American Rye

 

Best:  Cask Strength Peated Rye Whiskey – Liberty Pole Spirits

• Date reviewed: April 18, 2024
• Price: $64.00 for 750ml

 

I couldn’t stop drinking this peated Rye whiskey. Part of that was due to its dryness, but mostly because I loved what was happening inside my mouth. It drank at its stated proof, and the peat was interestingly inconsistent from sip to sip: it kept morphing from smoky to earthy to spicy and back to smoky. 

If you enjoy peated whiskeys, you’ll want to jump all over Liberty Pole’s Peated Rye. If you aren’t into peat (or you think you’re not), this is unusual enough to make it a worthwhile toe-dipping experience. Open your mind and #DrinkCurious. This whiskey commands my Bottle rating. At $64.00, I might even call it a bargain.

 

 

 

Runner Up:  High Road Rye – Hard Truth Distilling

• Date reviewed: March 31, 2024
• Price:  $38.00 for 750ml

 

I could easily see High Road as a great introductory American Rye for folks who haven’t done much toe-dipping into the category. However, even if you’re an experienced enthusiast, you will love this whiskey. At only $38.00, this is one hell of a bargain, and it earns every bit of my Bottle rating.

 

Bourbon

Bourbon was, by far, the most challenging category to choose between the Best and Runner Up. I went back and forth several times before settling on my final decision.

Best:  High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon – High n’ Wicked

• Date reviewed: February 22, 2024
• Price:  $80.00 for 750ml

 

The first sip was an Oh My Gosh, Are You Kidding Me? moment. Seriously. It took me by complete surprise. Flavors just exploded in my mouth. The second was slightly less dramatic while equally pleasurable. There were so many layers on the palate and finish I found identifying them all challenging. Just when I thought I nailed everything down, another layer dropped. High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon is darned close to a life-changing experience, and at $80.00, it seems like a bargain. If you see it, grab a Bottle. You won’t regret it for a second. 

 

 

 

Runner up: Double Stave 6-Year Kentucky Bourbon – J. Mattingly 1845

• Date reviewed: August 16, 2024
• Price:  $100 for 750ml

 

The Double Stave 6-Year Kentucky Bourbon drank right at its stated proof. There was plenty of oomph, but not something uncomfortable. The nose and palate were far apart. As I savored my initial pour, I went for a second. That’s atypical for me when I’m penning a review, yet it should be telling: It is an excellent Bourbon. 

Would I pay $100 for this Bourbon? While it is only six years old, what J. Mattingly 1845 did with it makes it unique due to that Double Stave process. That’s worth the premium, and it takes my Bottle rating.

 

 

 

World Whiskey

 

Best: 2012 Indian Single Malt – BHAKTA Spirits

• Date reviewed: July 16, 2024
• Price: $149.99 for 750ml

 

I found the whisky relatively mellow, which was interesting considering the proof. There was absolutely no heat in my mouth or throat. The peat didn’t dominate; it was completely complimentary; reminding me of older peated Scotches. I loved the fruity flavors. The spice notes melded perfectly. 

This 2012 BHAKTA Indian Single Malt is one of the best whiskies from the Indian subcontinent that I’ve tasted, and that’s saying something because there are some truly mind-blowing ones. Is it the extraordinary long time in oak? Is it the ancient Armagnac finish? I have no idea; however, learning more about Ocean King interests me. 

If you enjoy peated whiskies, then 2012 BHAKTA Indian Single Malt should be on your shortlist. It is stunningly delicious and well worth the cost of a Bottle.

 

Runner up:  Single Malts of India: Kurinji - Amrut

• Date reviewed: March 7, 2024
• Price:  $115.00 for 750ml

One of the fascinating things about Amrut’s Single Malts of India program is it introduces us to whiskies entirely off anyone’s radar. I was surprised how strong the aroma started and then just fell off. The palate began sweet, became dry, and ended with serious spice. Then there was that Energizer Bunny finish. It all added up to a lovely tasting experience. I don’t believe you’ll find another whisky like Kurinji, no matter what corner of the earth you seek. That point alone earns this one my Bottle rating.

 

 

Canadian Whisky

 

Best: Good Day 22-Year – Proof and Wood

• Date reviewed: January 5, 2024
• Price:  $100.00 for 700ml

 

What a difference a year makes! I looked up my review of the 21-year version, and while there were several similar notes, there were enough new ones to not confuse the two. I found that the nosing and finish held the most differences; that rock candy quality on the palate and finish may not sound like much, but it, too, had a significant impact. Good Day, 22-Year is delicious and well worth picking up a Bottle.

 

 

Irish Whiskey

 

Best:  “The Blender’s Cut” Cask Strength Complex Blend – Two Stacks

• Date reviewed: February 5, 2024
• Price: $60.00 for 750ml

 

Sipping The Blender’s Cut was an experience. I didn’t just drink whiskey; I got lost in it. This Irish whiskey drank way under its stated 130°. I poured a second glass before I considered that part. Thankfully, I was home with no plans to leave. The Blender’s Cut is stupendous. I’m thrilled this is not a limited-edition whiskey and is affordable. Hopefully, you’ll have an easier time than me finding a Bottle for yourself.

 

Runner up: High n’ Wicked No 7 Foursquare Single Grain – High n’ Wicked

• Date reviewed:  March 3, 2024
• Price:  $79.99 for 750ml

 

High n’ Wicked No. 7 Foursquare Single Grain is unlike any Irish whiskey I’ve experienced. I scoured some of my older reviews to see if I’d tried any in a rum-cask finish, and there was Grace O’Malley, but it didn’t taste anything like this. This is my third escapade with High n’ Wicked. I’m impressed, and this Irish whiskey earns every bit of my Bottle rating.

 

Scotch Whisky

 

Best: Uigeadail Single Malt Scotch - Ardbeg

• Date reviewed: April 10, 2024
• Price:  $80.00 to $130.00 for 750ml

 

It is hard not to fall head-over-heels in love with Ardbeg Uigeadail if you enjoy peated whiskies. It is a near-perfect Islay Scotch with a balance of oomph and richness that’s sure to please. Its popularity is justified; you’ll want a Bottle of your own.

 

Runner up: Meikle Tòir The Sherry One – The GlenAllachie

• Date reviewed:  March 14, 2024
• Price:  $75.00 for 700ml

 

If you don’t know what Pedro Ximénez sherry aging does to whisky, you must investigate it. It is like casting a spell with Elfin's magic! There were layers of flavors that slowly transformed as the whisky crossed the zones of my palate. This was an experience I didn’t want to end; I would grab a Bottle of The Sherry One if I saw it on the shelf, no questions asked.

 

Budget Whiskey

 

Best: Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey – Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey

• Date reviewed: October 13, 2024
• Price:  $29.99 for 750ml

 

As I’ve been working a lot with higher-proofed whiskeys, I was expecting relatively muted notes from Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey. That wasn’t the case, and that proves Victoria Eady Butler’s remarkable skill. While this could hold its own in a cocktail, reserving it for mixing would be a huge mistake. For $30.00, you’re getting a Tennessee Whiskey with real character. It deserves my Bottle rating, and I believe you’ll agree once you taste it yourself.

 

Runner up: Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch Bourbon – Heaven Hill

• Date reviewed: August 8, 2024
• Price: $20.00 for 750ml

 

Price notwithstanding, Evan Williams 1783 has much to offer. It has a lovely nose and is flavorful. You can sip it year-round, even on a hot summer day. It certainly doesn’t drink like a cheap whiskey and provides an excellent opportunity to #RespectTheBottomShelf. If you see it, you should pick one up; it deserves my Bottle rating.

 

 

Flavored Whiskey

 

Best:  Buchanan’s Pineapple – Buchanan’s Whisky

• Date reviewed: November 21, 2024
• Price:  $25.00 for 375ml or $35.00 for 750ml

 

Let’s get some stuff out of the way. You'd be wrong if you were like me and expected Buchanan’s Pineapple to be nothing more than a liqueur. Yes, the pineapple component is the first thing you notice. But Buchanan’s managed to not lose the base Scotch spirit in the process. 

Would this be an everyday drinker? No. But, for something off the beaten path, I found it enjoyable. Perhaps it would do well on a warm summer’s evening? In November, I have no way to test that theory. Regardless, Buchanan’s Pineapple has earned a spot in my whiskey library and Bottle rating.

 

 

Please Santa? 

 

"The Tempest" Tasmanian Single Malt – Rare Hare Spirits

• Date reviewed: May 28, 2024
• Price:  $999.00 for 700ml

 

The reality is that most people do not purchase $999 bottles of anything. As such, the value statement component of my rating is irrelevant. However, the Bottle, Bar, or Bust category still describes a spirit as Marvelous, Mediocre, or Malvolent. 

There are times when your mouth and eyes seem connected. As I sipped The Tempest, my eyes rolled back into my head. This was one of those experiences – it went far beyond drinking whisky. The Tempest is luxurious. 

I have no idea what a great whisky bar might charge for an ounce. However, if you sought to experience a real treat, I would ask the bartender to pour The Tempest. If this was on a store shelf and I could afford the premium, I’d buy a Bottle, hide the receipt from Mrs. Whiskeyfellow, and enjoy The Tempest behind closed doors.

 

 

The Sleeper

 

Mary Dowling Kentucky Straight Bourbon Winter Wheat – Mary Dowling Whiskey Co.

• Date reviewed: November 1, 2024
• Price:  $54.99 for 750ml

 

I’ve never had a chance to try Waterfill & Frazier, and the chances are high that I never would. I could easily understand why her Bourbon was so popular if it tasted similar to Mary Dowling Winter Wheat. 

It drank five to ten points above its stated proof, giving it sufficient depth and character. That cherry pie filling and caramel was a lovely combination. The finish was a magnificent way to end the sipping experience. 

Considering the above, plus that this is only a $55.00 Bourbon, I believe Mary Dowling Winter Wheat is the total package and is a slam-dunk Bottle rating; it is one of the best affordable Bourbons I’ve tried in 2024.

 

And there you have it; these are the best whiskeys I’ve tasted in 2024. Are any of these on your list? Let’s lift a glass to the winners and runners-up and see what 2025 brings. Cheers!

 

Whiskeyfellow encourages you to enjoy your whiskey as you see fit but begs you to do so responsibly.