5 Reasons Green River Wheated Bourbon Was Crowned 'World's Best' In 2025

As of December 2025, the world of American whiskey is buzzing with the news that Green River Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon has been crowned "World's Best Bourbon" at the prestigious New York World Spirits Competition. This monumental recognition is not just an award; it’s the culmination of a remarkable revival story for a brand with a legacy stretching back to 1885.

The Green River Distilling Co., located in Owensboro, Kentucky, is one of the state's oldest licensed distilleries, holding the historic DSP-KY-10 designation. After a century of challenges, including a devastating fire and the long shadow of Prohibition, the brand's resurrection is now complete, cementing its place back among the bourbon elite. This deep dive explores the history, the man behind the legend, and the specific expressions that are redefining what "The Whiskey Without Regrets" truly means in the modern era.

The Founder: J.W. McCulloch's Enduring Legacy

The Green River story is inseparable from its visionary founder, John W. McCulloch. His ambition was not merely to produce whiskey, but to create a brand synonymous with quality and Kentucky heritage.

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• Full Name: John W. McCulloch
• Role: Founder of Green River Distilling Company
• Founding Year: 1885
• Location: Owensboro, Kentucky
• Historic Designation: The distillery holds the 10th oldest distillation license in Kentucky (DSP-KY-10).
• Early Slogan: The brand was famously marketed with the tagline, "The Whiskey Without Regrets" and, at one point, "The Whiskey without a Headache," nodding to its perceived quality and smooth finish.
• Incorporation: McCulloch officially incorporated the Green River Distilling Co. in 1900, establishing offices in both Owensboro and Louisville.
• Tragedy: The original distillery was severely damaged by a fire in 1918, a catastrophic event that, combined with the onset of Prohibition, halted the brand's production for decades.

McCulloch’s original vision laid the groundwork for the modern revival. His great-grandson even supported the return to the original Green River Distilling Co. name, ensuring the historical authenticity of the resurrected brand.

The 2025 'World's Best' Bourbon and Flagship Expressions

The Green River lineup has been meticulously crafted to honor its heritage while appealing to the contemporary palate. The recent awards are a testament to the quality of the new production under the Bardstown Bourbon Company umbrella.

Green River Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon (The World Champion)

This expression is the star of the moment, having secured the coveted "World's Best Bourbon" title at the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition.

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• Mash Bill: Contains wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye, which typically results in a softer, sweeter profile.
• Aroma & Palate: Leads with a beautiful peach and caramel aroma, coupled with apricot and cinnamon. The palate is honeyed and round, featuring notes of toffee, pastry, and a hint of hazelnut.
• Finish: A lasting finish that balances the sweetness with subtle spice.

Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Flagship)

The core offering that represents the classic Owensboro bourbon profile.

• Mash Bill: Traditional high-rye bourbon mash bill of 70% Corn, 21% Rye, and 9% Malted Barley.
• Proof: Typically bottled at 90 proof.
• Tasting Notes: Aromas of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The palate is smooth and rich, with flavors of warming spice, vanilla, and hints of chocolate-coated peppermints, dried cherry, and light leather.

The Revival: Bardstown Bourbon Company and New Releases

The modern era of Green River began with a significant investment and a change in ownership that focused on restoring the brand's historical integrity. This new chapter has been marked by rapid growth and the release of several highly anticipated, limited-edition products.

The Bardstown Bourbon Company Acquisition

In August 2022, Bardstown Bourbon Company, a fast-growing distiller and producer, acquired Green River Distilling Co. This merger brought together two leading Kentucky producers under the umbrella of Lofted Spirits (acquired by Pritzker Private Capital in March 2022), creating a powerful, independent spirits company committed to Kentucky whiskey.

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The acquisition was pivotal, allowing the distillery to fully return to its original, revered name, Green River Distilling Co., and leverage the resources needed for national and international growth.

Recent and Limited-Edition Releases

The brand's expansion of its portfolio showcases its commitment to innovation and quality, moving well beyond the core expressions.

• Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey: A new addition marking the brand's fourth product, expanding its distribution footprint significantly.
• Full Proof Single Barrel: A highly sought-after release bottled at barrel strength, offering an unfiltered, intense flavor experience for true bourbon enthusiasts.
• Barrel Strength Wheated Bourbon: Following the success of the standard Wheated Bourbon, this higher-proof version delivers a more concentrated version of the award-winning profile.
• U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Special Release: A unique, commemorative bottling that pays homage to the military and the brand's long-standing American heritage.

The combination of historical reverence, modern distilling excellence, and strategic ownership has propelled Green River Bourbon back into the global spotlight. The 2025 "World's Best Bourbon" award is a clear signal that the legacy of J.W. McCulloch is not just revived—it is thriving and setting a new standard for Kentucky whiskey.