Texas Distillery Wins World's Best Small Batch Single Malt, Elevating American Whiskey

A Texas craft distillery has achieved global recognition, earning the World's Best Small Batch Single Malt title at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. Andalusia Whiskey Co., located in Blanco, won with its Stryker Single Malt, a whiskey finished in Madeira casks from a local Texas winery, marking a pivotal moment for the emerging American Single Malt category.

The award represents more than an individual achievement; it symbolizes the growing sophistication and international credibility of American craft distilling. The Stryker expression, characterized by rich smoked malt and a distinct Texas character, demonstrates how regional innovation can compete on the world stage.

Co-founders Ty Phelps and Tommy Erwin view the recognition as validation of their grain-to-glass philosophy and commitment to producing whiskey that reflects its place of origin. By aging their spirits under the expansive Texas sky and utilizing locally sourced ingredients, Andalusia has created a product that bridges regional terroir with global whiskey standards.

The victory arrives at a critical time for American Single Malt, a category rapidly transitioning from a niche market to a recognized international presence. Texas, with its burgeoning craft distilling scene, is emerging as a significant player in this movement, challenging traditional whiskey-producing regions.

Phelps emphasized that the award transcends personal achievement, representing a broader validation of innovative approaches to whiskey production. The win signals that excellence in distilling is no longer confined to centuries-old traditions but can emerge from passionate, forward-thinking producers committed to their craft.

For the American whiskey industry, this award suggests a promising future. It indicates that craft distilleries can not only compete internationally but also potentially redefine global perceptions of whiskey production. The Stryker Single Malt's success demonstrates that unique regional characteristics and innovative production techniques can create world-class spirits.

As the global whiskey community increasingly recognizes the quality of American Single Malt, Andalusia Whiskey Co. stands at the forefront of this transformative moment, proving that exceptional spirits can emerge from unexpected places.