The Average Drinker is proud to have earned multiple Double Platinum honors in Fred Minnick’s ASCOT Awards, a recognition that means a lot to us as everyday whiskey drinkers who built this community around honest reviews, thoughtful picks, and a genuine love for great whiskey.
Our first Double Platinum award was for Barrel King Single Barrel “Juicy Fruit,” a pick that stood out for its bold flavor, balance, and drinkability. Juicy Fruit was also recognized as Best in Category in the 2025 ASCOT Awards.
Our second Double Platinum came from “Mile Rye Club,” a blend Dara created with Sidney Vassallo at Barrel King.
We have never selected barrels or blends with awards in mind. Every bottle we put our name on is chosen because we genuinely believe in it and would be excited to share it with friends, family, and our community. These awards are a meaningful reminder that honest tasting, trust, and a little bit of fun can lead to something truly special.