Best Southern American Spirit/Liqueur Types
Bourbon is an American whiskey that is primarily made from corn mash, the minimum requirement is 51%, while other options may include rye, barley, or wheat. Although most production is located in Kentucky, bourbon can technically be made anywhere in the United States.
The whiskey is almost always aged, and the process must take place in new charred oak casks, but the regulations do not specify the minimum aging period. If it is labeled as straight bourbon, it indicates that the whiskey has been aged for at least two years, and all bourbon whiskey must be bottled at the minimum of 40% ABV.
VARIATIONS OF Bourbon
THE BEST Bourbon Spirits
Blanton's
Blanton's Straight From The Barrel
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Brother’s Bond
Cask Strength Bourbon
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Heaven Hill Distillery
Bottled in Bond
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
High Bank Distillery
Whiskey War Barrel Proof
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
High Bank Distillery
Midnight Cask Barrel Proof
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Tennessee whiskey is a label used for a specific type of whiskey produced in Tennessee that has to meet several quality and production standards. The production process is similar to bourbon, and the mash has to be made with 51% corn. After distillation, it has to go through a filtering step known as Lincoln County Process—which involves filtering or steeping whiskey in sugar maple charcoal.
The only exception to this rule is made for Prichard's whiskey. All Tennessee whiskey has to be aged in new, charred oak, but the exact aging period is not regulated. It is bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume). Tennessee whiskey it typically amber-colored, and the charcoal-filtering provides for its signature smooth and mellow character.
THE BEST Tennessee Whiskey Spirits
Uncle Nearest
Single Barrel Whiskey – Batch 905 Premium Whiskey
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold 2024
In its original form, this Southern classic used whiskey as its base, along with a secret combination of spices. Sometime in the 20th century, the original recipe was changed, and whiskey was merely used as a flavoring, while the drink was based on a neutral grain spirit.
First created by Martin W. Heron in New Orleans, Southern Comfort is appreciated for its smooth flavor, with hints of fruits and spices. It can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but it also works well as a cocktail ingredient. In 2016, the brand was bought by Sazerac, a company that is trying to bring Southern Comfort back to its original form.
Invented by Antoine Peychaud in the 1830s, this bitter was originally developed as a health tonic. Peychaud was a New Orleans apothecary of Creole origin who based the drink on an old recipe that his father brought from Haiti. He mixed the drink into hot toddies and offered it to his customers and friends.
It is believed that the Sazerac cocktail was modeled on Peychaud’s combination. Although the exact recipe is not known, the base of Peychaud’s bitters is made with gentian, while the dominant flavors are fruity, herbaceous, and spicy.
This pomegranate-flavored liqueur was first manufactured in 2006. Although it does not pride in rich and long history, the liqueur soon gained recognition for its versatility and a complex taste profile. It is produced from natural pomegranate juice, premium vodka, and a small amount of imported tequila. Pama is praised for its berry aroma and a unique combination of sweet and tart flavors.
Although it can be enjoyed on its own, preferably on the rocks with a lemon twist, it also pairs exceptionally well with bubbly drinks such as ginger ale, tonic water, sparkling wines, and Champagne.
Old Charter is a type of bourbon produced in Frankfort, Kentucky, at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is now owned by Sazerac. This bourbon is not overpowering, and it usually displays light peppery and vanilla notes, along with hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
It has a long tradition, dating back to 1874 when Adam and Ben Chapeze first produced it near Bardstown, Kentucky. After prohibition, the Charter brand was acquired by Bernheim, and the production was continued in Louisville, Kentucky. The brand was later owned by Schenley Distilleries, and in 1999, the Old Charter was purchased by Sazerac from Diageo.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Herbsaint is an anise-flavored liqueur that originated in New Orleans. It was created in 1934 by J. M. Legendre, a New Orleans pharmacist who loosely modeled the drink on absinthe, which was prohibited in the US at the time. The liqueur is green and herbaceous, with dominant anise and licorice notes.
The original recipe was tweaked in the 1970s, but Sazerac, the current owner, reintroduced Mr. Legendre’s original in 2010. Both versions are now available. Unlike absinthe, this liqueur was wormwood free, and it has more in common with the French pastis.
Aguardiente de Ojén is an anise-flavored spirit that originated in a small village of Ojén in southern Andalusia. The original, which was probably based on a wine distillate, dates from 1830 when Pedro Morales distilled his first batch.
The drink was an instant, but short-lasting success, as the original recipe was lost after last Morales died without disclosing the recipe. Another version (White Label Ojén) was created in Jerez by Manuel Fernández. This version was mainly exported, especially to New Orleans, where the original spirit was immensely popular and used in the trendy Ojen cocktail.
Best Southern American Spirit/Liqueur Producers
Heaven Hill Distillery, founded in 1935, is one of the largest independent, family-owned distilleries in the United States. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky, it is renowned for producing some of the most iconic American whiskeys, including Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny.
The distillery boasts a rich heritage in crafting premium bourbons and other spirits, blending tradition with innovation. Heaven Hill is also home to one of the largest inventories of aging whiskey in the world, reflecting its commitment to quality and authenticity.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
BEST Heaven Hill Distillery Spirits
Barrell Craft Spirits, founded in 2013 and based in Louisville, Kentucky, is a renowned independent blender specializing in unique, aged, cask-strength whiskeys and rums. The company sources high-quality spirits from various distilleries, meticulously blending them to create distinctive flavor profiles.
Their commitment to innovation and quality has earned them numerous awards from prestigious spirits publications and competitions. Barrell Craft Spirits offers a diverse range of products, including small-batch and single-barrel releases, as well as ongoing series like Seagrass, Dovetail, and Vantage.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023, 2022, 2020
BEST Barrell Craft Spirits Spirits
Doc Swinson's is a boutique whiskey brand based in Washington State, USA, known for its innovative blending and finishing techniques. Their lineup includes unique series like Alter Ego, featuring whiskeys finished in rum, sherry, and cognac casks, and the experimental Exploratory Cask Series.
The Blender’s Cut Series highlights expertly crafted bourbon, while the Session Blend offers a more approachable, everyday whiskey experience. Committed to curiosity and innovation, Doc Swinson's combines global flavors with traditional American whiskey craftsmanship.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Doc Swinson’s Spirits
Brother's Bond Bourbon is a premium bourbon brand founded by actors Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, known for their roles in "The Vampire Diaries." Inspired by their shared love of bourbon, they created a unique collection of award-winning bourbons, each with an exceptional flavor profile.
Their bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in American oak barrels and reflects a commitment to quality and environmental sustainability through the use of regenerative agricultural practices in grain sourcing.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Brother’s Bond Spirits
15 STARS Fine Aged Bourbon celebrates Kentucky's heritage as the 15th U.S. state and honors traditional distilling with innovative aging techniques. The distillery sources fine aged bourbons, blending unique mash bills and proprietary grains like heirloom black corn.
Their craftsmanship combines early Kentucky artisanship with modern quality standards, creating award-winning bourbons with rich, complex flavors and historical significance.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2023, 2022
BEST 15 Stars Spirits
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2021
BEST Heaven’s Door Spirits
Frank August is a modern bourbon brand that emphasizes openness and sincerity, inviting enthusiasts to share in America's spirit. Their flagship offering, the Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, is a meticulously crafted blend of 10 to 15 barrels, bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV).
Tasting notes highlight rich caramel and vanilla aromas, complemented by warm oak and mild baking spices. On the palate, it presents a balance of sweet caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and rye bread spices, leading to a smooth finish with lingering flavors of vanilla, oak, and baking spices.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2021, 2020
Garrison Brothers Distillery is the first legal whiskey distillery in Texas, founded in 2006 in Hye, Texas. The founder, Dan Garrison, is dedicated to crafting premium bourbon on his ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Each bottle of Garrison Brothers bourbon is made with the highest-quality ingredients, including organic corn from Texas farms, and aged in new American oak barrels, resulting in a rich and full-bodied flavor.
The distillery is known for its unique bourbon expressions, such as Small Batch, Single Barrel, Balmorhea, and Cowboy Bourbon. In addition to bourbon production, Garrison Brothers is committed to preserving natural resources and supporting the local community through various initiatives.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Garrison Brothers Spirits
George Dickel is a renowned Tennessee whiskey brand known for its smooth and high-quality offerings. Their lineup includes a variety of expressions, such as the George Dickel Bourbon, with sweet notes of vanilla, cherry, and orange, balanced by almond, caramel, and oak.
Another highlight is the George Dickel 17-Year Old Reserve, celebrated for its delicate floral notes, hints of vanilla, and spices. Each whiskey embodies the brand's dedication to craftsmanship and tradition.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023
Jack Daniel's, based in Lynchburg, Tennessee, is known for producing premium Tennessee whiskey, including iconic offerings like Old No. 7, Gentleman Jack, and Single Barrel. The brand follows a distinctive charcoal mellowing process, which sets it apart from traditional bourbons.
Jack Daniel’s is also recognized for innovations like Tennessee Honey and Tennessee Fire. The distillery emphasizes craftsmanship and tradition, offering distillery tours and engaging with fans through limited editions and special releases.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2022
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2022, 2020
BEST Jack Daniel’s Spirits
Best Southern American Spirits and Liqueurs
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is one of the most renowned whiskeys in the world, known for its bold and intense flavor. This bourbon offers rich notes of dark chocolate, caramel, butter, with earthy tones of walnut and hazelnut, while the palate features warm vanilla, oak, and spicy notes.
With a high alcohol content, it delivers a deep and long-lasting finish. Best served neat or with a splash of water, unfiltered and in its purest form.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
Brother's Bond Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey is an unfiltered and uncut expression, bottled at barrel proof to capture the bourbon's essence in its purest form. Crafted from a mash bill of 65% corn, 22% rye, and 13% wheat and barley, this bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years using a copper column and copper pot-doubler distillation method.
It offers layered aromas of ripe banana, walnut, leather, and subtle smoke, with bold notes of caramel and honey on the palate, leading to an exceptionally smooth, long finish with lingering spices.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey White Label is a premium bourbon that embodies the distinctive characteristics of Tennessee whiskey, with a smooth, rich flavor profile. Produced in Tennessee, this whiskey follows the traditional bourbon-making process, which includes mashing with at least 51% corn, distillation, and aging in new charred oak barrels.
However, what sets it apart is its filtration process, often referred to as the "Lincoln County Process," which involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal before it is aged. This unique step imparts a smoother, mellower taste compared to typical bourbons.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
Spirit
Barrell Craft Spirits Private Release Whiskey Finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Barrel DSX3 American Whiskey
The Barrell Private Release Series is a project in detailed blending on a scale small enough to allow extreme precision. Every ounce of every ingredient changes the overall character of these blends, as does the barrel that each one is aged in. For that reason, these barrels take months to polish and perfect.
Each release of our Private Release Whiskey is a unique blend of whiskeys. Once created, these blends are married in single casks, many of which were previously used for other spirits and/or wines. Each Private Release Whiskey series has slightly different base whiskey and is entered into a finishing cask at a different time.
AWARDS
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023, 2022
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022
Gamblers Bay Distillery's Florida Farm Vodka is a premium spirit crafted from 100% Florida corn sourced directly from local farmers. This meticulous selection yields a clean, crisp vodka with a slightly sweet finish. Distilled 22 times, it achieves exceptional purity and smoothness.
The vodka has been recognized with a Double Gold award at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, underscoring its superior quality. With an ABV of 40%, it is gluten-free and embodies the essence of Florida's agricultural heritage.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
Barrell Craft Spirits' Gold Label Dovetail is a premium whiskey blend that elevates their acclaimed Dovetail expression. This limited edition incorporates whiskeys aged up to 25 years, finished in rum, port, and Dunn Vineyards Cabernet barrels, resulting in a more powerful and robust profile.
Bottled at cask strength of 140.18 proof (70.09% ABV), it offers a complex flavor experience. The nose presents white grapefruit and red currant, with jammy fruits like raspberry and peach, complemented by sarsaparilla and espresso. The palate evolves from strawberry rhubarb pie to toasted marshmallow and wintergreen, leading to a finish bursting with tropical fruits such as mango and pineapple.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2020
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2020
Introduced in 1951, Black Velvet Canadian Whisky is named for its signature, velvet-like texture. The brand was initially known as “Black Label,” but after Jack Napier, the original distiller, sampled the first batch, he changed the name to Black Velvet to reflect its uncommon velvety taste and smoothness.
This smooth quality is the result of using crystal clear Canadian water, plus the finest rye, grains, and corn, the whisky is painstakingly distilled, blended at birth, and put up in premium oak barrels to gently mature. Black Velvet has maintained a loyal following since its inception.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Cotton & Reed White Rum is crafted in Washington, D. C., using a blend of sustainable amber cane syrup and blackstrap molasses, fermented with unique yeast strains and double-distilled for a richly aromatic profile. With notes of fresh grass, tropical fruit, and vanilla, this rum offers a full-bodied flavor ideal for cocktails like the Daiquiri and Ti' Punch.
It has won multiple awards, including Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, highlighting its quality and versatility.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
Doc Swinson's Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey is a 7-year-old rye whiskey made with a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. Bottled at 100 proof, it delivers a bold and balanced flavor profile with notes of spice, dried fruit, and subtle grassy undertones.
The whiskey has received accolades, including a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Gold at the Ascot Awards. Its smooth finish and complex layers make it a standout choice for rye enthusiasts. Available for $69.99, it reflects Doc Swinson's commitment to crafting premium spirits.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
Heaven Hill Distillery William Heavenhill 9th Edition 15 YO Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Dark Arts Whiskey House Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished with Toasted Jupilles Fluer French Oak Staves – Small Batch
Dark Arts Whiskey House Straight Rye Whiskey Finished with Toasted Amburana Oak Staves – Small Batch
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