Tennessee Craft Whiskey Distillery Honored by Top U.S. Bartenders and Beverage Professionals
King’s Family Distillery, a leading small-batch whiskey maker in Tennessee, proudly won three medals at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. Top U.S. bartenders, beverage directors, and bar managers judged the event in Chicago. These experts recognize spirits that demonstrate excellent quality, mixability, and commercial success.
Award-Winning Craftsmanship from the Smoky Mountains
King’s Family Distillery was honored with the following distinctions:
- Tennessee Standard Bourbon Blend – Gold Medal, 91 Points
- Wheated Bourbon – Silver Medal, 87 Points
- Ryeconic – Silver Medal, 85 Points
These awards show the distillery’s strong commitment to crafting exceptional small-batch whiskey in Tennessee. In fact, each bottle reflects the artistry, patience, and local pride that guide their whiskey-making process.
“We’re so proud to be honored by the Bartender Spirits Awards,” said Cara King, co-founder of King’s Family Distillery. “As a family-run distillery, this recognition means a lot. It confirms our daily effort to respect Tennessee whiskey traditions while exploring new flavors and innovation.”
A Bartender-Backed Benchmark for Excellence
Now in its 7th year, the Bartender Spirits Awards stands out as one of the few global competitions judged entirely by U.S. bar professionals. The awards highlight spirits that shine not just in flavor but also in their value to bartenders and the hospitality world. Specifically, judges evaluate each entry on mixability, taste, shelf appeal, and value. Together, this gives key insight into what works in bars nationwide.
“The Bartender Spirits Awards focus on spirits that thrive behind the bar,” said Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, the competition’s host. Indeed, “Winners like King’s Family Distillery deliver high-quality, versatile products bartenders love to pour and serve.”
About King’s Family Distillery
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, King’s Family Distillery stands as a premier small-batch whiskey producer in Tennessee. At its core, the distillery focuses on quality, family values, and bold, flavorful spirits. Founded by industry veterans Cara and Justin King, it specializes in carefully blended bourbons and ryes. Together, their whiskeys capture the spirit of the region and honor the rich heritage of American whiskey.
