Best American Whiskey at the 2026 IWSC, 99 points. Bardstown's Lochs of Jura is a bespoke blend of straight bourbon and rye finished 32 months in single malt Scotch casks from the Isle of Jura, bottled at 104 proof.

Bardstown Bourbon Company built a blend of mature straight bourbon and rye whiskeys, then moved it into barrels that had held Jura single malt on the remote Isle of Jura, Scotland: 84% ex-bourbon Scotch casks and 16% ex-Sherry Scotch casks. An unusually long 32-month finish lets the American whiskey and the residual malt fully integrate. The nose opens with vanilla crème, blackberry compote, fresh mint, toasted oak and cigar box; the palate brings spearmint, rich caramel, light cinnamon spice, ripe fruit, soft malt and a whisper of Scotch smoke; the finish is long and rounded with fruit-forward Sherry notes and lingering maritime character. Bottled at 52% ABV. 2026 limited release, 750ml.