trends
LIQUID ASSETS
These Spirits Are in Your Future The recently launched Whiskey and Barrel Consumer Choice Awards are based on how people actually buy spirits: price The Price of Perfection There’s almost nothing Luckbox loves more than game-changing outliers and great whiskey, and the firstever Whiskey and Barrel Consumer Choice Awards was the perfect marriage of the two. The debut of this competition was special because the judges chose winners based on how consumers buy spirits: Entries in the blind tasting were categorized and judged in price brackets instead of age statements, regions or finishes. What’s more, vetted consumers outnumbered industry professionals on the judging panel three to one. Some Luckbox editors have spirits industry backgrounds and were invited to participate as industry judges. Only one consumer choice award was presented for each category, and of the 27 chosen, these were the seven Luckbox favorites. To see the full list of winners, visit wabcca.com. Photographed by Garrett Roodbergen at DMK Burger Bar in Chicago’s Lincoln Park
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Tamdhu 12
GOLD Scotch Single Malt Non-Peated Under $80 The two extra years of maturation after the previous 10-year release was well worth the wait. A combination of American and European oloroso sherry casks creates a smooth, buttery palate with balance and a depth of complexity seldom seen in a 12-year single malt at this price. 43% ABV, $70
Kaiyo 7
GOLD Japanese Whisky Under $70 Aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in coveted Japanese mizunara oak casks, Kaiyo 7-year has a more complex flavor than its seven years would suggest. Sweet and floral on the nose, with multiple layers emerging from a combination of very different oaks in the maturation. 48% ABV, $49
Teeling Small Batch
GOLD Irish Whiskey Under $50 Blending flavors from former bourbon barrels and former Central American rum barrels produces a big flavor profile of Irish whiskey combined with deep, rich dried fruit. A bit of spice lingers on the palate as a pleasant surprise and blends well with the fruit, bringing a long, enjoyable finish. 46% ABV, $39
11/24/20 11:45 AM
