Photo: Wemyss Malts

Kiln Embers from independent Scottish bottler Wemyss Malts was named Best in Show at the second annual event held in Austin, Texas recently.

A panel of 17 judges blind taste-tested whiskies on a 100-point basis with a focus on aromatics, flavour and finish.

With a limited global release of 12,000 bottles, the Kiln Embers was developed as a smokier addition to the distiller's range, blended with double the amount of smoky Islay malt whisky than its sister whisky Peat Chimney.

The Kiln Embers is non-chill-filtered with a 46 percent abv. The distiller's tasting notes describe the nose as “snuffed smoke” mingling with salted lemons and sweet cure bacon, while oats and orange peel “toast over embers and heathery peat on the palate.” The result, says Wemyss Malts, is a sweet smoky finish.

Another winner that stands out on the list is Amrut Distilleries in India, which won a gold award for their Amrut Fusion and a silver award for its Amrut Single Malt. The Kiln Embers was released last year.

For the full list of award winners, visit the link.