The International Whisky Competition has been held annually since 2010. It recognizes some of the finest liquids in the bottle, across all classifications of brown spirit—from scotch to bourbon to Japanese whisky, and everything in between. Inspired by the Olympic Games, judges award bronze, silver and gold medals to participants in 49 different categories.
In 2015, the tasting panel at IWC implemented a new methodology for judging. Unlike traditional competitions wherein dozens—even hundreds—of entries are samples side-by-side, the members here taste one whisky at a time. Notes are compiled and subsequently reviewed and scores compiled to land on the winners.
Ultimately, the tasting committee also awards an honor of distinction to the whisky which nets the highest score across all categories. This year, that prize went to Dewar’s Double Double 32 Year Old. The panel, which included whisky author Sébastien Gavillet and world-renowned mixologist Francesco Lafranconi, gave the scotch a score of 96.4 out of a potential 100—enough to best hundreds of competitors.
As a blend, the winner will likely come as a shock to many in the world of whisky. For years, single malt has been preferred by connoisseurs as the most elegant expression of scotch. As it comes from just one location, relying wholly on the robust characteristics of malted barley, it boldly demonstrates the hand of its maker.
Stephanie MacLeod took home the award for ‘Master Blender of the Year’ at IWC.
“[I aimed] to push the boundaries of what is expected from the whisky category and have a long-standing commitment to innovation,”
Tasting Notes by FLAVIAR
Appearance / Color
Ripe Nectarine
Nose / Aroma / Smell
The aroma is classic Dewer’s with swirling notes of baked cobbler, warm stone fruits, toasted grain, and roasted meat.
Flavor / Taste / Palate
The mouth-feel has a nice viscosity and a flavor profile of baking spices, hints of black pepper, lemon curd, peaches, vanilla, and a wisp of something smoky.
Finish
As promised, this is a smooth finishing Spirit that seems to melt into your throat.