The 2021 New York International Spirits Competition has handed out its awards for Best Rye Whiskeys in the world. Just four rye whiskeys were awarded Double Gold medals, the challenge’s top prize.
In its 12th year, the 2021 New York International Spirits Competition had over 1400 submissions from 39 countries and 34 US states. Judging was conducted by panels of a minimum of four qualified trade buyers, which were made up of a mix of restaurateurs, sommeliers, retail spirits buyers, distributors and importers. Judging took place at the 3 West Club in the heart of New York City, across the street from Rockefeller Center.
Redemption Rye took home the overall category award and was named the Rye Brand of the Year. Based on a 95% rye mash bill, it currently offers a 46% ABV NAS expression, a 10 YO 58.1% ABV Barrel Proof Rye and an 18 YO 54.95% ABV rye.
Best Rye Whiskeys In The World According To The 2021 New York International Spirits Competition
Double Gold Winners
Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego Solera Aged Rye
The judging panel said, “A pleasant mix of spiced rye and dried fruit in the nose. It lays well on the tongue with hints of pepper and ginger before its long-balanced finish with hints of cinnamon.”
Spirit of Hven Rye Whiskey
Spirit of Hven actually comes from Sweden, and to be more particular, from an island in the Baltic Sea in the Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden. The mash bill is mash bill of 78.6% rye, 11.9% wheat, 4.8% corn and 4.8% other grains. The wash is then double-distilled and aged for a minimum of three years in new American oak barrels that have been heavily charred.
Stellum Spirits Rye
The judging panel noted, “High ABV with a soft mix of cinnamon and baking spice in the nose. Layered and felt in the mouth a rye and cereal chew with a medium finish and spice on the end”
Templeton Rye 6 Year
The judges said, “Rye and vanilla and hints of oak fill the nose. The rye is present with a layered sweetness of vanilla and green apple followed by a balanced long rye finish with a touch of oak and dried fruit.”
