The 2024 Showstopper: Lasso Motel’s 18-Year-Old Whiskey Takes the Crown
There’s nothing quite like a bold whiskey to shake up the spirits scene, and the recent New York World Spirits Competition has crowned the 18-Year-Old American Straight Whiskey from Lasso Motel as the top spirit of 2024. This event, a pilgrimage for whiskey enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, unfolded in Brooklyn, where the illustrious panel, comprising knowledgeable judges, savored hundreds of entries.
Competing for the title of the best whiskey in the world.
Unveiling the Winner
Among the numerous contenders, this unique expression stood out—a remarkable feat considering the competition included some of the world’s most esteemed whiskey brands. Per the competition’s structure, the awards ranged from Bronze to Best In Show, with only one bottle ultimately seizing the ultimate honor. So, what makes Lasso Motel’s offering so exceptional?
The winner is an eye-catching 120-proof wonder, crafted from a mash bill that boasts an astonishing 99% corn and 1% malted barley. It was sourced from MGP in Indiana and uniquely aged entirely in used bourbon barrels. Typically, bourbon is required to age in fresh casks, but for this whiskey, such unconventional choices have worked wonders, allowing it to mature gracefully over 18 years without being overpowered by oak.
A Tasting Experience Like No Other
As I took that first sip of the compelling Lasso Motel whiskey, I was instantly captivated. The flavors danced in my mouth—the rich caramel notes spiraled into a wave of toffee and maple syrup. Whoever said that whiskey should only be savored near a fireplace in the dead of winter clearly hasn’t tried this sumptuous release on a balmy evening. It’s the kind of whisky that invites you to lean back and simply enjoy the moment.
“All I knew was this was easily the best whiskey we tasted,” says Aaron Goldfarb, a noted spirits author and judge at the competition, summing up the sentiments of many in attendance.
The mouthfeel is wonderfully smooth, echoing with lingering notes of dried stone fruit enveloped in a delicate brown sugar dust. It’s not just a drink; it’s a memorable experience, perfect for those evenings when you want to unwind with something truly special.
The award-winning spirit that’s turning heads.
A Bright Future Ahead
For Lasso Motel, this accolade is a remarkable launchpad. They are poised to debut this iconic whiskey across Texas and Florida, and, come this month, they’ll ship nationwide through Seelbach’s. With a captivating lineup of whiskies that includes 13 different cask finishes, each bottled at 100-proof, they are set at a retail price of around $70, making them accessible for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
However, what truly has my attention is the 18-Year-Old release, which, priced at $130, sits firmly at the higher end of the market. That being said, I can confidently say it’s worth every penny. After all, securing the title of Best In Show at a prestigious competition certainly comes with a sense of pride—and a high price tag to match.
Conclusion: A New Era of Whiskey
As the whiskey industry continuously evolves, Lasso Motel’s swift rise to the top is a brilliant reminder of the creativity and craftsmanship that exists within this spirited world. The mix of innovation and tradition has birthed an unforgettable experience, one that neither my friends nor I plan to forget anytime soon. Whether you’re a die-hard bourbon enthusiast or a curious novice, now is the perfect time to explore this bold American straight whiskey and discover the enchanting flavors it has to offer.
Keep an eye on Lasso Motel as they continue to make waves in the whiskey landscape!
The question that remains is how this newcomer will influence the established giants. As we celebrate this newest entry, I can only speculate the heights the brand might reach in the coming years—who would’ve thought an 18-year-old American straight whiskey would sweep the competition away? Cheers to that!
