On Saturday, December 2nd, 2023, the sights, sounds, and delights of Las Vegas reached new heights. In the Entertainment Capital of the World, what could possibly arouse this reaction? Whisky, of course! To be more specific, WhiskyFest Las Vegas celebrated its second annual event where premier whiskey brands of the world come to discuss, pour, and celebrate the best spirit on the planet.
In addition to the fine drams on hand, there was a dazzling array of cuisine to enjoy at the event. A roast beef carving station was a crowd favorite, but the sliders, potstickers, and egg rolls were in fierce competition for the favor of patrons. Over the course of the evening, it’s no secret that we enjoyed nibbles at every station. Best of all, the gourmet desserts paired extremely well with many of the drams on hand!
Without a doubt, every single brand at the event was worth reviewing and sampling. There were experts at every booth to answer questions and provide guidance on the finer points of their drams. After due consideration, we’d like to point out the whiskey brands we felt were the stars of the show.
Blackened Whiskey, the December 2023 Whiskey Network cover feature, was the belle of the ball. The Masters of Whiskey Series with Rabbit Hole presented one of the most compelling drams of the show. It’s a blend of 13-year-old Tennessee bourbon and Rabbit Hole Heigold High Rye Double Malt Kentucky Straight bourbon. Then, it is finished in Calvados Apple Brandy Casks and bottled at cask strength. Blackened offerings are loud and bold like a good heavy metal concert would be.
Seven Seals Innovation offers a suite of drams that defy expectations. As innovators they are challenging the status quo, and the product is proof positive that their expertise is working. Everything in their line up is worthy of a taste and will cater to a variety of flavor profiles. At the show, the Seven Seals Zodiac line was a dark horse fan favorite that many people were coming back to enjoy a second time. Watch this distillery, as it has a bright future.
Westland Distillery presented a captivating array of whiskey to delight the crowd. The 8th edition of Westland Outpost Range Garryana American Single Malt Whiskey was memorable and awe-inspiring. This dram features the savory spice of Garry Oak engulfed with the rich fruit flavors imparted from Pedro Ximenez casks. The finale offers the unique allure of Washington State red wine cask finish. All Westland offerings should be explored and celebrated. Do not miss any opportunity to sample any of their products,. Westland Distillery is one to watch in 2024!
RD1 Spirits tells a riveting story in the whiskey world. It was started in 2020 by modern-day entrepreneurs who have a maverick attitude with a nod to the roots of the forebearers of the brand. This booth was a crowd favorite as there were lines throughout the evening. The Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey Finished with French Oak captured our hearts with ease. With multiple Platinum and Gold Awards to showcase, this whiskey is something to behold. Explore their history and expressions because you’ll be seeing a lot more of RD1 Spirits in 2024
Waterford Whisky is a brand that delivers an authentic and exceptional experience for whisky connoisseurs. With an incredible loyalty to terroir, there is a rich aura of provenance and craftsmanship that emanates from their work. Of their impressive offerings available for tasting, it was impossible to choose a distinct winner. All of them were delicious and enthralling in their own way. The subtle shifts in flavor profiles were impressive to experience. The story and products of Waterford Whisky are an exquisite experience worth seeking out.
Whiskey Network would like to thank the organizers of WhiskyFest for providing us with VIP access to this amazing event for the second year in a row. It is an honor to get hands-on experience with an incredible array of whiskey brands from around the world. With all of this under one roof in the luxury of Resorts World, WhiskyFest Las Vegas is certainly among the crown jewels of whiskey experiences in the West.
There is a plethora of whiskey experiences out there, but every whiskey enthusiast owes it to themselves to visit WhiskyFest in their favorite location. Don’t miss out in 2024!
