Colorado whiskey continues to prove it belongs on the national stage, and Branch & Barrel Distilling is one of the clearest examples of that momentum.
At the 2026 Denver International Spirits Competition, the Centennial based distillery earned both Gold and Double Gold medals for its bourbon lineup, further solidifying its place among Colorado’s most respected craft producers.
According to coverage from the Northwest Beer Guide, Branch and Barrel’s Wheated Bourbon scored an impressive 96 points, earning Double Gold recognition, while its High Rye Bourbon also secured a Gold medal with a strong 91 point score.
A Colorado Distillery Rooted in Place
Branch & Barrel is not just producing whiskey in Colorado. It is actively shaping its identity around it.
The distillery focuses on all Colorado sourced grain and water, and leans heavily into the state’s climate and elevation to influence how its whiskey matures.
That approach is part of what sets the brand apart in blind competitions where branding means nothing and only what is in the glass matters.
What Makes the Wheated Bourbon Stand Out
The award winning Wheated Bourbon is a three grain whiskey built with balance in mind.
Tasting notes highlight a rich and layered profile with:
Milk chocolate
Honeyed red berries
Cashew and caramel cream
Soft marshmallow sweetness with subtle banana brûlée character
This is the kind of bourbon that performs well in blind tastings because it combines richness with smooth structure rather than overpowering intensity.
High Rye Bourbon Adds Contrast and Complexity
Alongside the Wheated expression, Branch & Barrel’s High Rye Bourbon shows a different side of the distillery.
Aged for five years, it brings a more spice forward profile while still keeping an approachable balance.
Flavor notes include spiced walnut, lemongrass, cocktail cherry, and lemon custard, giving it a brighter and more layered finish compared to the wheated expression.
Together, the two bourbons show the range the distillery is building within its core lineup.
Why This Win Matters for Colorado Whiskey
Colorado continues to become one of the most interesting whiskey regions in the United States.
Distilleries like Branch & Barrel are proving that high altitude aging, local grain sourcing, and experimental production methods are not just marketing points. They are producing award winning results.
Competitions like Denver International Spirits are blind judged, meaning wins like this are based purely on quality and execution.
That is what makes Double Gold meaningful. It is not about reputation. It is about performance.
Bigger Trend
Branch & Barrel’s success at the 2026 Denver Spirits Competition reinforces a bigger trend in Colorado whiskey.
The state is no longer just participating in the national whiskey conversation. It is actively shaping it.
With consistent award wins and a clear commitment to craft, Branch & Barrel is one of the names to watch as Colorado whiskey continues to grow.
To read the original coverage, visit
https://www.northwestbeerguide.com/spirits/2026-branchbarrel-denver/