Forbes: America’s Best Whiskey, According To The American Distilling Institute

Forbes | Joseph V Micallef | May 14, 2025

Each year, the American Distilling Institute hosts the ADI International Spirits Competition. This prestigious event recognizes excellence in craft spirits and is open to American and international distilleries. Below is a brief background and tasting notes on the "Best of Class" and "Best of Category" American whiskey winners from the recently completed 2025 competition.

America’s Best Whiskey

Talnua Bourbon Cask & Stave Series Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml.

Taluna’s Cask & Stave was selected as America’s Best Whiskey at the 2025 ADI Spirits Competition. Taluna, in Arvada, Colorado, holds the distinction of being America's first distillery dedicated exclusively to producing single pot still whiskey.

Established in 2017 by Patrick and Meagan Miller, the distillery was inspired by the couple's honeymoon in Ireland and their love for traditional Irish whiskey. The name "Talnua" combines the Irish-Gaelic words "Talamh" (land) and "Nua" (new), reflecting their mission to bring old-world distilling traditions to the new land of America.

Talnua's uses triple distillation in copper pot stills and a mash bill of 50% malted and 50% unmalted barley, adhering closely to traditional Irish methods while incorporating American innovation. The whiskey is aged a minimum of three years in ex-bourbon white oak casks with the addition of charred virgin American white oak staves from the onset of maturation.

The nose features fresh marshmallows, lightly charred oak wood, cooked cereal/malt, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of candied, pink bubble gum-like sweetness. The whiskey is light on the palate, exhibiting subtle cooked grain flavors, hints of marshmallow, vanilla, caramel, and a touch of white pepper. The finish is medium length and fresh, featuring lingering notes of seasoned oak and wood spices, with mellow undertones of vanilla and caramel that fade gracefully.

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