Burnt Tavern Bourbon Named Best of Class Winner at 2026 New York World Spirits Competition Beating Major Brands

Press Release Burnt Tavern Bourbon

New Bourbon Brand Making its Mark in Competitive Industry

Kentucky-based William Berkele Distillery’s first release, Burnt Tavern Bourbon, has been named BEST OF CLASS: Best Straight Bourbon at the 2026 NEW YORK WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION  beating out some of the biggest and oldest brands in bourbon. The spirit also won Double Gold for its unique liquid. 

Launched just a year ago, the new bourbon brand has been making its mark in the industry, winning numerous national and international awards while expanding its reach outside Kentucky and into the Nashville and Chicago markets.

"Earning Best of Class in New York is an extraordinary honor and validates the intent we had from day one. We set out to build a bourbon that directly reflects our history, a story forged in resilience and fire,” said Bennett Clark, President William Berkele Distillery. “Master Distiller Chip Tate executed our vision masterfully. He was able to bring the Burnt Tavern story to life in a liquid that truly matches our roots -- rich, complex, and layered. Winning across pure blind tastings and trade panels confirms that pound-for-pound, Burnt Tavern stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the finest bourbons in the world."

At a time when the bourbon industry has hit a rough patch, Burt Tavern Bourbon is emerging as a powerful success story, continuing to exceed expectations. Its distinct flavor profile, eye-catching branding and fascinating story are making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.

Guided by Tate’s unique vision, Burnt Tavern Bourbon, is a 7-year-old premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 105 proof with layers of burnt sugar, caramel, toffee, ginger, vanilla and a whisper of smoke. After aging in traditional bourbon barrels, the liquid is double-barreled in two unique, slowly toasted and charred barrels.

“Since the beginning, it has been a privilege working with the entire William Berkele Distillery team,” said master distiller Chip Tate. “I’m very proud to have created a beautifully unique bourbon worthy of the deep history behind Burnt Tavern. We’re honored to have our efforts rewarded with this prestigious award.”

Burnt Tavern Bourbon Awards List

• Straight Bourbon of the Year – 2025 USA Spirits Ratings

• Gold Medal – 2025 USA Spirits Ratings

• Gold Medal – 2025 New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC)

• Platinum - 2025 TAG Global Spirits Awards

• Double Gold – 2025 The Fifty Best (NYC)

• Gold Medal Design Competition – 2025 Pr%f Awards

• Gold Medal Tasting Competition – 2025 Pr%f Awards

• Double Gold - 2026 London Spirits Competition

• Gold Medal –2026 International Bartenders Spirits Awards

• Gold Medal – 2026 Ascot Awards

• Gold Medal – 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

• BEST OF CLASS: Best Straight Bourbon at the 2026 New York World Spirits Competition

• Double Gold 2026 New York World Spirits Competition