For the first time ever, an American distillery has taken home the highest honor in whisky. Michter’s, a Louisville, Kentucky-based bourbon and rye producer, eclipsed the biggest names from Scotland, Japan, Ireland, and beyond to rank first overall in the newly-released 2023 World’s Most Admired Whiskies top 50 list published by Drinks International on October 31, 2023. With this stunning recognition, Michter’s joins a winner’s circle of iconic brands including Yamazaki and Springbank.
The results, which are determined by an Academy of independent global whiskey experts (writers, educators, bar owners, and other specialists with no affiliation to any brand) from more than 20 countries, represent the pinnacle of achievement in the global whisky world and certify that American whiskey is finally being recognized for its excellence by connoisseurs around the world.
In its significance, and perhaps even shock value, this thrilling announcement harkens back to the Judgment of Paris in 1976, when a Napa chardonnay and a Napa cabernet sauvignon prevailed over esteemed counterparts from Burgundy and Bordeaux in a landmark blind tasting that demolished critical expectations and sent the international image of American wine soaring.
Heartfelt thanks to all of our industry supporters and everyone who enjoys Michter’s. We are honored beyond words to be named The Most Admired Whiskey in the World.