Wenzel Whiskey “Sherry” Wins Best Finished Bourbon at World Whiskies Awards 2025
Wenzel Whiskey “Sherry” has been named Best Finished Bourbon 2025 at the World Whiskies Awards, standing out for its layered sweetness and sherry-driven character. The expression shows how secondary maturation can bring new dimensions to traditional bourbon, combining dark fruit and molasses with the structure of American oak.
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Key Takeaways
Wenzel Whiskey “Sherry” awarded Best Finished Bourbon 2025 for its balance of bourbon depth and sherry-cask richness.
Judges praised its dark fruit, spice, and smooth integration of cask influence.
Kentucky maintains its leadership in the finished bourbon category with this standout expression.
Best Finished Bourbon 2025 – Wenzel Whiskey “Sherry”
Wenzel “Sherry” is a bourbon finished in ex-Oloroso sherry casks, designed to layer classic corn and vanilla notes with fruit-forward richness. Judges highlighted its expressive nose, deep palate, and smooth, wine-tinted finish. The result demonstrates the ongoing evolution of bourbon through thoughtful barrel finishing.
Aroma | Dried figs, cherry, toasted oak |
|---|---|
Palate | Raisin, dark chocolate, molasses, vanilla |
Finish | Smooth and lingering with winey fruit and spice |
What Is Finished Bourbon?
Finished bourbon is a legally defined straight bourbon that undergoes additional maturation in a secondary cask—often one that held sherry, port, or rum. While it must still meet bourbon production laws, the second barrel imparts additional layers of flavour.
In 2025, judges sought expressions that maintained bourbon’s core character while enhancing complexity through finishing. Wenzel “Sherry” succeeded by integrating its sherry notes without overpowering the base, creating a profile that was both distinctive and true to style.
Wenzel “Sherry” leads the pack in a category that rewards creativity and balance. Its sherry-cask influence delivered depth and elegance, proving that finished bourbon continues to evolve while respecting its roots. This result reinforces the style’s relevance and appeal to both traditionalists and modern drinkers.
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