$25 Bourbon Named World’s Best at 2026 International Wine & Spirit Competition
A $25 Kentucky bourbon has beaten bottles costing hundreds of dollars more to claim the 2026 IWSC Bourbon Trophy. Old Bardstown Bottled-in-Bond, produced by Willett Distillery, scored 98 points and earned a Gold Outstanding medal, with judges praising its balanced palate, bright aromas and characterful finish.
The award challenges the idea that premium whiskey requires a premium price. Old Bardstown is produced using Willett’s historic 1936 mash bill — 72% corn, 15% malted barley and 13% rye — and is aged for at least four years before being bottled at 100 proof.
Old Bardstown is set to receive the 2026 Bourbon Trophy at the International Wine & Spirit Competition’s annual awards ceremony in London later this year, potentially bringing significantly more attention—and demand—to the relatively affordable Kentucky bourbon.
1936: Original mash bill established
2012: Willett resumes distilling
2016: Old Bardstown brand revived
2026: Scores 98/100 and Gold Outstanding
Later 2026: Receives IWSC Bourbon Trophy in London.
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