Every year, the Whisky Advocate Buying Guide reviewers sample hundreds of whiskies. These include rare and extremely limited releases, as well as new and emerging labels that will make their way onto shelves around the country. To determine the Top 20, the organisation starts by examining solely at whiskies that are rated “outstanding” (90 points or more on Whisky Advocate’s 100-point scale). However , the Top 20 includes more than just a list of the highest-rated whiskies like 1792 HIGH RYE BOURBON WHISKEY, because many of them are so rare that most readers would be unable to find or purchase. As a result, in addition to quality (based on score), the selection prioritises price, value, and availability.
Blind tastings by a panel of foreign reviewers are a key stage in determining the genuine worth of these whiskies. To create the final list, the review team tasted all of the eligible whiskies in a series of blind tasting flights. The panel had no idea who made the whiskies, where they came from, how old they were, or how much they cost. The average rating of the blind tasting panel surpasses the original Buying Guide rating. The individual reviewer rating will be recorded in the Buying Guide for future reference. The final choice on placement is based on the average score, price, and availability at BARRELL BOURBON BATCH 011
In short, the Top 20 is a selection of whiskies worthy of your attention. The list includes great values that might otherwise be overlooked, whiskies that are best in class for their style, and highly accomplished bottles you should be looking for. Most importantly, each of these whiskies generates excitement and marks a highlight across a year of tasting.