ByBrad Japhe,

Senior Contributor.

The rebranded Asia World Spirits Competition (AWSC), now focusing on Asia and Oceania, named Barton 1792 Distillery's 12-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon as its 2025 "Best In Class." This award highlights the growing Asia-Pacific bourbon market and recognizes the Sazerac-owned distillery's quality, known for its fruity notes and rich taste.

The Asia World Spirits Competition is now entering its 6th year. It has recently undergone a change in both name and scope, as it seeks to solidify its status as the preeminent drinks judging across the entirety of Asia–as well as Oceania. The annual gathering holds the proper pedigree and roster of experts to succeed in its mission.

Originally launched in 2019 as the Singapore World Spirits Competition, it is organized by the Tasting Alliance, the same folks responsible for the San Francisco World Spirits Competition–commonly regarded as the standard bearer for industry awards. According to its site, “Earning a medal from the AWSC’s esteemed panel of judges not only enhances a brand’s reputation but also opens doors to global markets, solidifying its place among the world’s finest spirits.”