MINNEAPOLIS (Nov. 12, 2026) — Minnesota-based Brother Justus Whiskey Co. is gaining international recognition after its flagship American Single Malt Whiskey earned a Double Gold medal and Best of Class Craft Distiller Whiskey honors from the Tasting Alliance, the organization behind the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The recognition places the small but growing craft distillery among the competition’s top performers, highlighting the increasing prominence of American single malt whiskey in a spirits industry long dominated by bourbon and rye.
Crafted entirely from Minnesota-sourced malted barley, white oak and water, Brother Justus American Single Malt is produced at the company’s Northeast Minneapolis distillery. Bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV), the whiskey retails for $69.99.
Competition tasting notes describe the award-winning expression as opening with leather, heather and sun-dried hay, followed by sweet grain and buttery biscuit flavors and a soft, elegant finish with lingering warmth.
The international recognition follows a series of milestones for Brother Justus. Whiskey critic Fred Minnick previously selected the distillery’s Founder’s Reserve III among his favorite whiskeys of 2025, while the September release of Founder’s Reserve IV became the fastest-selling expression in company history.
The limited-edition Founder’s Reserve IV, priced at $149.99 and bottled at 110 proof, features aromas of dried apricot, blackberry, sage and brown bread. Its palate delivers marmalade, brown sugar, herbed butter and toasted sesame seed, followed by a finish of walnut, rye cracker and wildflower honey.
Brother Justus also offers American Single Malt Silver, an unaged, clear whiskey made entirely from barley. Priced at $49.99 and bottled at 86 proof, the expression earned a gold medal from the American Craft Spirits Association in 2025. Known for its tropical fruit and banana notes, Silver is positioned as a versatile alternative to vodka or tequila in cocktails.
The awards and strong sales come as craft distillers nationwide face a challenging market, making Brother Justus’ recent momentum particularly notable.
With the holiday gifting season approaching, the distillery is promoting its award-winning lineup to whiskey enthusiasts looking beyond traditional bourbon and rye. Brother Justus products are available through select retailers and restaurants in Minnesota and Illinois, with online shipping offered to most states where permitted.


