The World Whiskies Awards has become a major event since it started in 2007. This competition helps shine a light on trends in the whiskey world. For instance, in 2012, it recognized Yamazaki 25 Year Old as the best single malt, sparking the Great Japanese Whisky Boom.
Recently, the awards focused on U.S. categories like bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. The ceremony took place in downtown Louisville, and whiskey lovers were eager to hear about this year’s “World’s Best Bourbon.”
The top honor went to the 2024 release of Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special (VVS). This isn’t just any bourbon; it’s a special 13-year-old blend that’s part of the decanter series. This series features unique, bottled-in-bond bourbons, and the VVS with its maroon label is a rare find. Only the third release in this series, it also celebrates the 25th anniversary of Heaven Hill’s acquisition of the distillery making it.
Old Fitzgerald is a storied brand, with roots dating back to 1870. The bourbon is known for its wheated mashbill: 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. This combination results in a smooth and flavorful drink, and it places Old Fitzgerald alongside other well-regarded wheated bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle and WL Weller.
The bourbon for this release was distilled in 1999 and rested in barrels until March 2013. Heaven Hill decided to pause its aging at this point, which adds to its uniqueness. The flavors in this bourbon are rich and complex—think baked fruits with a hint of cinnamon on the nose and deep notes of leather and candied plum on the palate. It finishes with subtle hints of pipe tobacco and barrel char.
However, securing a bottle may be challenging. While the suggested retail price was $230, it now sells for much more on the secondary market—over five times the original price.
Old Fitzgerald VVS is a remarkable bourbon that not only celebrates its history but also stands out in today’s whiskey landscape.
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