Kentucky Whiskey judges: "We look forward to working with some of the greatest palates in the world"

In September, the IWSC will be heading to the US for our first North American Whiskey & RTD Judging in Kentucky. We will be bringing with us a panel of international judges with the whiskey team led by Richard Paterson OBE. Joining our international judges will be US-based drinks experts, including Senior Buyers, Master Blenders and renowned Communicators. We caught up with two of our US judges to hear what whiskey trends they've been witnessing and what they will be looking for in our Kentucky entries. Read on to find out what Chris Blandford, Adult Beverage Category Manager at Kroger, and Mark Gillespie, Journalist & Founder of Whisky Cast, had to say.

What are your expectations of the upcoming whiskey judging in Kentucky?

Chris Blandford:
First, the high standards of evaluation, a spotlight on Kentucky's rich heritage in whiskey, and the educational experience I will receive by working closely with some of the greatest palates in the world.

Mark Gillespie:
I expect to see excellence on display from all of the entrants.

What are the latest trends in Bourbon and American whiskey? Which styles are on the rise?

Chris Blandford:
What a great question! As we are all aware our industry, just like our palates, is always changing. What I'm seeing a bit of right now is that High rye bourbon/whiskey is on the move! Its been trending up, and I love to see that as a rye guy myself. Finishing has been big, and American Single Malt seems to be a new trend out there. When its all said and done, the goal is to put something in the bottle that tastes good and is affordable!

Mark Gillespie:
Rye whiskey continues to grow in popularity, and the rise of American single malts creates a new challenge to the old order of whisky.

What will you be looking for as a judge when tasting whiskeys in Kentucky?

Chris Blandford:
I like sweet, spicy, herbal, all of it really but what I'm looking for the most is uniqueness. I can't speak for all the judges but being in the industry and having the opportunity to try so many things over the years, I like items that set themself apart. I want complexity. I want to be able to sit back and say 'WOW, that's a gift that keeps on giving!' 

Mark Gillespie:
I look for overall balance - whether a whiskey’s component flavours work well together. I also want to see vibrant flavours and a good nose.

What are your sentiments about joining the IWSC judging team?

Chris Blandford:
I kid you not, when I was asked if I was interested, I thought a joke was being played on me! The IWSC is the gold standard and I never dreamed that I would be qualified enough to join these ranks. To actually get the call was surreal and to get chosen to do it in my home state of Kentucky with the other incredibly talented judges...I can’t think of anything better. 

Mark Gillespie:
I’ve dreamed of being an IWSC judge for many years, and it was an honour to be asked to join the judging panel. 

Why do you think brands should enter the IWSC Judging in Kentucky?

Chris Blandford:
Entering the IWSC in Kentucky could help enhance brand credibility, differentiate themselves in the market, and gain expert feedback. The potential for increased exposure, sales and global recognition makes it a great investment for any brand. 

Mark Gillespie:
The IWSC is the most respected international competition for spirits, and a chance to get feedback on your products from the judging panel is invaluable.

The IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging in Kentucky will take place on 9-13 September 2024. The entry deadline is 18 July 2024. Find out more and enter the competition here.