America’s best rye whiskey is distilled in Indiana, aged in Kentucky, and costs under $100. That’s according to one of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world, which recently released its results for 2025.
As Food & Wine reports, the International Wine & Spirit Competition North America (IWSC) took place from June 4 to 7 in Bardstown, Kentucky. After the tasting was completed, judges selected Pinhook’s Vertical Series 9 Year Rye as the best whiskey in its category, achieving an impressive 98 points and winning the competition’s Gold Outstanding award.
Pinhook’s Vertical Series is an annual release designed to demonstrate the gradual impact of aging on American whiskey. Years ago, the brand acquired 450 barrels of whiskey distilled by Indiana’s MGP (now Ross & Squibb Distillery). All barrels were distilled from MGP’s now-famous 95% rye mashbill, with most maturing at Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. (Pinhook operates a similar aging and release program with MGP-distilled bourbon.)
Starting at four years old, Pinhook has blended and released batches of 20 to 40 barrels each year to showcase how the whiskey evolves — and how the barrel imparts distinct flavors over time. Released in early 2025, the 9-year rye was an immediate hit among tasters and reviewers, receiving praise for its bold flavors and overall balance.
According to IWSC tasting notes, the nose “[bursts] with rich honey and toasted macadamia, the palate is enriched by a subtle note of gentian that adds complexity. A classic and vibrant rye profile, the tipple enjoys harmonious flavors and sweet undertones.” The 9-year rye was bottled at a cask strength of 111.2 proof and has a suggested retail price of $90.
While Pinhook’s Vertical Series was originally intended to max out at 12 years, the company now plans to release batches until stocks run out or age statements reach 16 years, whichever comes first. This change is partly due to a cooler-than-expected aging environment, which results in less evaporation loss compared to other warehouse climates in Kentucky.
While Pinhook’s rye stood above the competition with 95 points, five other rye whiskeys also received the same score at IWSC North America. This threshold qualified each for the Spirit Gold Distinction:
- World Whiskey Society’s 12-Year Straight Rye Whiskey aged in Awamori cask
- High West’s Bottled-in-Bond Straight Rye Whiskey
- King’s Family Distillery’s Ryeconic Whiskey
- Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
- Kentucky Peerless Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Of these other top performers, both the World Whiskey Society and King’s Family Distillery entrants also feature rye whiskey distilled in Indiana, presumably by MGP.
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