2026 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition

Presented by Wine Country Network, Inc
July 11-12, 2026

The 12 Annual North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition (N.A.B.W.C.) celebrates excellence in Bourbon, Whiskey, and Moonshine through rigorous double-blind judging on a 100-point scale. As the only professional competition where American-, Canadian-, Mexican-, and South American-made whiskeys compete directly against America's native spirit, Bourbon, we bring together certified spirits professionals, sommeliers, and buyers who evaluate each entry using the Neat™ Spirits Evaluation glass.

Double Gold winners (95+ points) advance to our prestigious Best of Show round, where our senior judging panel conducts a final evaluation. New for 2026: The elite Platinum award recognizes exceptional spirits that score 97 points or higher.

The Best of Show winner receives the coveted N.A.B.W.C. custom laser-engraved barrel head, a distinguished symbol of excellence in North American spirits.

 

2026 Competition Entry Information:
Competition Dates: July 11-12, 2026

 

Deadlines

Online Entries: June 30, 2026
Samples Delivery By: July 6, 2026
Entry Fee: $500
Bottles required: 2-750 ml

Competition will open soon!

Photo Credit Anne Marie Zarba
Photo Credit Anne Marie Zarba

Hall of Fame 2023

Northwest Spirits President Merrisa (Missy) Claridge and Head Blender Nick Warren with their Laser Engraved Barrel Head for “Best of Show,” First Place, Double Gold Medal -2023 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition.