Texas Wins Big at the World Whiskey Awards!
Texas distilleries are bringing home major accolades from the World Whiskey Awards, proving once again that the Lone Star State is a force to be reckoned with in the whiskey world. From individual honors to category wins, here’s a look at the Texas whiskey brands that made a global impact.
Marlene Holmes Inducted into the Whiskey Magazine Hall of Fame
Marlene Holmes pictured in front of the Milam & Greene Whiskey pot stills. Photo by Madeline Northway courtesy of Big Thirst Marketing
One of the highest honors in the whiskey industry was awarded to Marlene Holmes, head distiller at Milam & Greene Whiskey in Blanco, Texas. She was inducted into Whiskey Magazine’s Hall of Fame, making her:
One of the first American women to receive this recognition.
The only female distiller in the U.S. to be honored.
The only Texan to achieve this prestigious milestone.
With over three decades of experience, Holmes honed her craft under the legendary Booker Noe while working at Jim Beam in the ‘90s. She has led the Milam & Greene distilling team for six years, and in 2024, she was also named “Master Distiller of the Year” at the Women of Whiskey Awards.
Ironroot Republic Wins Best Corn Whiskey & Craft Producer of the Year
Jonathan Likarish, head distiller of Ironroot Republic, proudly displays the awards earned at the World Whiskey Awards. 🏆🔥 Photo courtesy of Ironroot Republic's Facebook page.
Ironroot Republic, based in Denison, Texas, took home two major awards:
World’s Best Corn Whiskey for their handcrafted Hubris whiskey.
Craft Producer of the Year, cementing their reputation as one of the best small distilleries in the U.S.
Hubris is a standout Texas whiskey made from heirloom grains, showcasing the dedication and innovation of the Ironroot team. Tasting notes include:
👉 Nose: Cornbread dough, apple, and vanilla.
👉 Palate: Fresh corn on the cob, oak, ginger, apple, and allspice.
👉 Finish: Warm, slightly dry, and lingering.
If you haven’t tried Ironroot Hubris yet, now’s the time—grab a bottle at your favorite Texas liquor store!
Balcones Distilling Wins Best American Single Malt
Jared Himsted holds the plaque for Best American Single Malt at the World Whiskey Awards. Photo courtesy of Jake Clements
The Best American Single Malt award went to Balcones Distilling for their iconic Texas 1 Single Malt Whiskey. This bold and complex whiskey represents what American single malt—and specifically Texas single malt—can be.
Balcones was also named a Highly Recommended Craft Producer of the year, further reinforcing their status as a powerhouse in the Texas whiskey scene.
Andalusia Whiskey Co. Wins Best American Small Batch Single Malt
The crew from Andalusia Whiskey Co. proudly displays their award for Best American Small Batch Single Malt. Photographer unknown.
Another Texas distillery taking home a top prize is Andalusia Whiskey Co., winning Best American Small Batch Single Malt for their Stryker Ex Haak Madeira Cask Finished Single Malt.
This exceptional whiskey delivers a smoky, peaty profile with dark fruit depth, making it a must-try for fans of bold, flavorful American single malts.
Andalusia Whiskey Co. is a small craft distillery in Blanco, Texas, nestled on a family farm in the heart of the Hill Country. Known for their dedication to tradition and innovation, they specialize in American single malt whiskey and rum, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From grain to glass, Andalusia’s spirits showcase bold Texas character, with rich flavors shaped by local ingredients and copper pot stills. Whether you’re sipping their signature triple-distilled single malt or exploring one of their unique experimental releases, Andalusia is proof that world-class whiskey is thriving deep in Texas.
Other Texas Distillers Recognized
In addition to the major category winners, Texas whiskey continues to shine with more industry recognition:
Jonathan Likarish (Ironroot Republic) was named a Highly Recommended Master Distiller/Blender of the Year.
What Are the World Whiskey Awards?
The World Whiskey Awards, hosted annually by Whiskey Magazine, celebrate the best whiskeys from around the globe. Entries are judged blind by a panel of industry experts, including master distillers, specialist drink retailers, and whiskey connoisseurs.
Winning a World Whiskey Award is one of the highest honors a whiskey brand can receive, and this year, Texas whiskey distilleries have proven they belong on the world stage.