LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 12, 2026) — Lexington-based Dark Arts Whiskey House has earned one of the whiskey industry’s top international honors, with its American Single Malt Whiskey named Best of Class at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The award, recognizing Dark Arts as the winner of the Best American Single Malt Whiskey category, was celebrated Nov. 8 during The Tasting Alliance’s Top Shelf 2026 Awards Gala. The event honors outstanding spirits from around the world, including Best of Class and Best in Show winners.
For the Kentucky whiskey producer, the recognition marks a significant achievement in a category gaining momentum alongside the state’s traditionally dominant bourbon industry.
Dark Arts has established its identity through unconventional blending, maturation and finishing techniques, emphasizing creativity and experimentation in American whiskey production.
“At Dark Arts, we’ve never been interested in following the conventional path. We’re here to challenge expectations, explore what’s possible, and create whiskey that speaks for itself,” the company said. “To receive this recognition on an international stage is an incredible honor and a testament to the passion and dedication of our entire team.”
The award-winning expression, Dark Arts MW13 American Single Malt Whiskey, is crafted from 100% malted barley, aged eight years and bottled at 115.7 proof (57.85% ABV).
Its flavor profile features bright notes of crisp apple and tropical fruit, complemented by delicate honeysuckle, offering a distinctive interpretation of American single malt whiskey.
The recognition comes as American single malt continues to gain visibility among whiskey enthusiasts and producers. While Kentucky remains synonymous with bourbon, distilleries such as Dark Arts are helping expand the commonwealth’s reputation for producing innovative whiskey styles beyond traditional bourbon and rye.
The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is among the industry’s most recognized blind-tasting competitions, making the Best of Class distinction a notable achievement for the Lexington operation.
Following the award, Dark Arts has made MW13 available for purchase through its online store, giving whiskey enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the internationally recognized expression.
The whiskey is available at Dark Arts Whiskey House’s online store.
About Dark Arts Whiskey House
Based in Lexington, Kentucky, Dark Arts Whiskey House is an innovative American whiskey brand focused on transformation and precision from concept to glass. Rooted in alchemical philosophy and guided by curiosity, the House creates immersive experiences that examine how ingredients, time, and intent shape character and complexity.
With the expansion of in-house distillation, Dark Arts has entered its next phase of product development, enabling greater control over spirit creation and future innovation. This evolution supports a broader portfolio and long-term research efforts, allowing the House to develop spirits from the beginning while maintaining the standards and vision that define Dark Arts Whiskey House.
