On Wednesday, 26 March, the global winners of the World Whiskies Awards 2025 were unveiled. This years’ awards took place at the world-renowned The Waldorf Hotel in London. 

Two Kentucky companies took home global awards: Bardstown Bourbon Co. was honored as Global Brand Innovator of the Year, while Estes PR was honored as Global PR Team of the Year.

Bardstown Bourbon Co. is part of Lofted Spirits; Master Distiller Steve Nally is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame and has enjoyed a more than 50 year career in the bourbon industry. Meanwhile, Estes PR has represented brands in spirits and hospitality for more than 20 years.

(Dan Callaway, VP Product Development, and Nally are pictured at left. Jamie Estes, President, and Tracy Green, Managing Director of Estes PR are pictured below.)

Other global Icons of Whisky winners this year include Holyrood Distillery for Distiller of the Year, Fettercairn Highland Single Malt Whisky for Campaign Innovator of the Year, and The Heart Cut for Independent Bottler of the Year. The  awards also saw the newest inductees to the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame, Anssi Pyysing from Teerenpeli Brewery  & Distillery, and whisky writer and spirits expert, Dave Broom. 

Sponsors of the World Whiskies Awards 2025 and Icons of Whisky include: Amorim Top Series, Brindiamo, Glencairn,  Hellmann, IPL Packaging, Kavalan, McLaren Packaging, Rankin, and Whisky Tour of the World. 

The event featured talks from awards hosts and sponsors, a drinks reception, live entertainment, and a full three course meal in the hotel’s stunning Adelphi Suite. 

Anita Ujszaszi, awards director, said, “It’s been another incredible year for the World Whiskies Awards. We’ve  tasted some truly exceptional products and it’s been wonderful to hear from passionate whisky producers and  industry professionals from all over the world. Congratulations to all our winners and thank you to all entrants. We can’t wait to see you next year.” 

The full list of winners for the World Whiskies Awards 2025 can be viewed on the World Whiskies Awards Website. 

Read more: Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2024 Ranked