Winning Distillery of the Year means every award won by every bottle that entered the competitions impressed the judges. A record number of entrants this year were vying for the much-coveted bronze, silver, and gold medals, with about 2000 spirits brands entering from more than 80 countries. The competition prides itself on consistently being assessed by a top panel of judges, consisting of some of the world’s leading figures from the hospitality sector.

Apart from the medals, there are also title winners including Spirit of the Year, Whiskey of the Year, Gin of the Year, non-alcoholic of the Year and so on. 

However, one US brand won 3 titles that we’ve got to talk about. Namely - Whiskey of the Year, Distillery of the Year and Best in Show by Country, USA. 

The bottle is Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Whisky by Virginia Distillery Company

Tasting Notes:

An American single malt with flavors and aromas of nuts, almonds, vanilla, chocolate and oak on the nose and palate with a smooth texture and long finish.

This is their flagship American Single Malt whisky and a combination of passion for Virginia and a dream to redefine American whisky. Aged a minimum of four years, this 100% malted barley whisky is matured in former Sherry, Bourbon and Cuvée wine casks.

Courage and Conviction is a limited-release series. The brand describes it as follows: With the courage to create our traditions, and the conviction to remain true to ourselves and our home, Courage & Conviction sets the new standard for American Single Malt whisky, rivaling the finest in the world.

Courage & Conviction Bourbon Cask Whisky at 93 points

Tasting Notes:

An American single malt with flavors and aromas of pepper, vanilla, spice and fruit cakes on the nose and palate with a well-balanced smooth finish.

Courage & Conviction Double Cask Reserve at 92 points

Tasting Notes:

An American single malt whiskey with aromas of apple cider, oaky toast and stone fruits with flavors of caramel, vanilla and candied peach on the palate with a medium finish.

Courage & Conviction Cuvée Cask Whisky at 92 points

Tasting Notes:

An American single malt with flavors and aromas of vanilla, toffee, caramel, oak and almond on the nose and palate with a balanced smooth finish.

Courage & Conviction Sherry Cask Whisky at 90 points

Tasting Notes:

Am American single malt with flavors and aromas of corn, vanilla and walnut on the nose and palate with a smooth elegant finish.

View the full winners list here: Meet Our 2023 Winners

Header Image Source: Virginia Distillery