Green River Honey Finished Bourbon Whiskey Wins Double Gold and Sustainability Emblem in 2026 Chilled Awards

# What happened Green River Honey Finished Bourbon Whiskey earned Double Gold and a 90-point final score in the 2026 Chilled Awards. The bottle also received the Chilled Awards Emblem of Excellence in Sustainability for its ingredient sourcing.

# How the product is made

# What the judges found Judges described the appearance as honey-gold and bright amber. The nose was called soft and inviting, with caramel, vanilla, honey, and a subtle nuttiness and no harsh alcohol note. On the palate the panel found it sweet, smooth, and mild. Honeyed sweetness, rich vanilla, and caramel coat the mouth while a subtle nutty note adds depth. The base bourbon character remains present through the profile. The finish is long and pleasantly sweet.

# Scores and behind-the-bar value The expression scored 9.9 for varietal/style accuracy and 9.8 for mixability potential. Chilled notes that the built-in honey character makes the whiskey versatile behind the bar: it can be served neat or on ice, and it works in cocktails such as a Gold Rush, Honey Old Fashioned, or Highball. At 92 proof, the whiskey keeps enough presence to remain recognizable in mixed drinks while providing some sweetness without added syrups.

# Why the sustainability emblem matters here Sustainability highlights the role of ingredient sourcing in flavored or finished spirits. Green River's use of beekeeper-owned, local honey suppliers is the specific sourcing detail called out by the Chilled Awards.

# Bottom line for buyers and bartenders If you want a honey-forward whiskey that still reads as bourbon, this bottle is designed to deliver that balance. It offers an easier route to honey character in cocktails because the sweetness is already integrated in the barrel, and the proof level supports mixing without overwhelming the cocktail's structure.