No one loves whisky more than the spirit aficionados judging the World Whisky Awards. Every year the Whisky Magazine panel unveils its pick of the finest drams around - and it might just be the ultimate way to toast self-isolation.
Selecting the very best casks around ahead of World Whisky Day, the winners are divided up into the best whisky categories, Icons of Whisky awards and an abundance of new Whisky Hall of Fame additions.
The winners are usually announced over the course of a fancy gala dinner, but as I’m sure you’re all well aware, a little thing called Covid-19 meant there were logistical issues with that setup. Needless to say, it’s the point at which live streaming comes into its own.
Dewar’s Double Double 32 year-old variety claimed the World’s Best Blended Whisky Award, while MacNair’s Lum Reek Blended Scotch Whisky, coming in at 21 years-old, took the award for Best Blended Malt.
The pièce de résistance, however, was undoubtedly the award for the World’s Best Single Malt Whisky. This year saw Japan’s 25 year-old Hakushu Single Malt reclaim the title it won back in 2018.
Owned by Japanese spirit giant Suntory, the whisky is described as light, fruity and smokey and is made at the company’s distillery at the foot of Mount Kaikomagatake.
The award for the World’s Best Single Cask went to the Tamdhu Distillery, with a dram serving up hints of fresh raspberries and citrus fruits, alongside a touch of banana and clotted cream.
Finished with rich sherry, brown sugar and what the brand describes as ‘a whisper of vanilla’ it’s definitely worth a try.
And if bourbon is more your thing, the World’s Best Bourbon was awarded to Ironroot Republic Distillery Harbinger. Cheers to that.
- In the mood for more whisky offerings? It’s time to discover the best whisky around alongside the best whisky tumblers for the job.