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American and Irish whiskeys do not get much written about them in the media, but that does not mean they lack anything. Far from it, they are a rage and it is growing globally. The reasons thereof are not hard to find and were underlined recently at the New York International Spirits Competition. The 2026 NYISC recognised 49 whiskies with Double Gold medals, bringing together established names and bottles worth discovering. Here are 5 award-winning American and Irish whiskeys of 2026, from WhistlePig Old World Rye Aged 12 Years, Widow Jane Decadence Bourbon, Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5, Jameson Triple Triple and Redbreast 18 Year Old whiskey.
Rye whiskey with a wine-cask twist, WhistlePig Old World Rye Aged 12 Years is made for those who like their pours complex and even layered. The whiskey is finished in three types of cask: Madeira, Sauternes and Port. The result brings together rye spice with notes of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit and dark chocolate. It is a bottle to consider when a straightforward bourbon feels a little too familiar.
Bourbon and maple syrup might sound like the beginning of a breakfast recipe, but Widow Jane Decadence Bourbon Whiskey takes the combination into whiskey territory. The bourbon is finished in maple syrup-seasoned casks, adding a distinctive sweet dimension to the spirit. For drinkers who enjoy rounded bourbon flavours with a dessert-like edge, this is an intriguing alternative to more conventional expressions.
The Angel's Envy Cellar Collection Vol. 5 Straight Rye Whiskey is known for its cask-finishing approach. The Cellar Collection Vol. 5 takes that idea in an unexpected direction. This straight rye whiskey is finished in French oak extra anejo tequila barrels, bringing together rye spice and influences from agave spirits. It is an interesting pick for adventurous whiskey drinkers who enjoy exploring what happens when two distinct spirits traditions meet.
Jameson Triple Triple Whiskey gives the familiar Irish whiskey style an extra layer of cask character. The expression is triple distilled and matured in three types of cask: ex-bourbon, sherry and chestnut. Expect a profile that moves between vanilla, orchard fruit, toasted nuts and gentle spice. It is an approachable option for those who enjoy Irish whiskey but want something beyond the standard bottle.
For a more mature Irish whiskey, Redbreast 18 Year Old Whiskey brings together single pot still character and a varied cask selection. It is matured in ex-bourbon barrels and casks seasoned with oloroso sherry, cream sherry and ruby port. The resulting profile includes dark berries, dried fruit, hazelnut chocolate, spice, and oak. Put together, this makes it a compelling choice for a slow and pleasant experience.
The appeal of these whiskey winners at NYISC lies in their variety, from rye finished in wine and tequila casks to Irish whiskey shaped by multiple maturation styles. From a 12-year-old rye, a bourbon finished in unusual casks to an Irish whiskey matured for 18 years, these whiskeys provide a good reason to refresh your home bar. This Double Gold list of whiskeys offers a useful starting point for discovering bottles that go beyond the familiar.
