Weldon Mills Distillery Earns Top Honors at 2026 Distillers Challenge International Spirits Competition
WELDON, NORTH CAROLINA — Weldon Mills Distillery has been recognized on an international stage with extraordinary results at the 2026 Distillers Challenge International Spirits Competition, held in Vista, California, earning some of the competition’s highest honors and reinforcing its reputation as one of the premier craft distilleries in the United States.
Leading the announcement is a defining achievement for the brand:
Norman’s 53 Named “Spirit of the Year” and “Best Whiskey Over 50% ABV”
Weldon Mills Distillery’s Norman’s 53 Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Barrel #2, Barrel Proof) captured three of the competition’s most prestigious awards:
Spirit of the Year (Brown Spirits)
Best Whiskey Over 50% ABV
Platinum Medal – 96 Points
This standout bourbon, known for its bold character and barrel-proof intensity, represents the craftsmanship and precision that define Weldon Mills’ approach to distilling. These back-to-back honors position Norman’s 53 among the finest spirits recognized globally in 2026.
Distillery of the Year: A Defining Moment for Weldon Mills
Further solidifying its place in the industry, Weldon Mills Distillery was awarded:
Distillery of the Year
This recognition speaks not only to a single product, but to the consistency, innovation, and dedication behind the entire portfolio.
Award-Winning Portfolio Across Multiple Expressions
The accolades extend beyond a single release, showcasing strength across multiple spirits:
Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch #3, Barrel Proof)
Platinum – 94 Points
Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch #2, Barrel Proof)
Gold – 90 Points
Select Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch No. 2)
Silver Medal
In addition, the distillery’s tequila program also received international recognition:
Rey Coyote Tequila Reposado
Best Tequila | Gold – 90 Points
Craftsmanship Rooted in Place
In less than a decade, Weldon Mills Distillery has evolved from little-known small-batch operation into a nationally recognized name, without losing sight of what matters most: craftsmanship, quality, and a deep connection to place.
Each award-winning spirit reflects a commitment to doing things the right way: patiently, intentionally, and with respect for the process.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
These results mark a major milestone for Weldon Mills Distillery, elevating both the brand and the region it calls home. As the distillery continues to grow, these recognitions serve as both validation and momentum—fueling what comes next.
Your next experience is waiting.
From the first pour to the final sip, the team at Weldon Mills invites you to experience what award-winning craftsmanship truly tastes like.
