BLACK BAND brings home TEN medals at the 2026 ASCOT Awards — including THREE Double Platinum
BLACK BAND DISTILLERY CELEBRATES MAJOR WINS AT THE 2026 ASCOT AWARDS
Peoria’s grain‑to‑glass distillery earns top honors across whiskey and gin categories, marking a milestone in the mission to reestablish The Whiskey City.
Peoria, IL — BLACK BAND Distillery is proud to announce an extraordinary showing at the 2026 ASCOT Awards, one of the world’s premier international spirits competitions founded by spirits authority Fred Minnick and judged through a rigorous blind‑tasting process by the American Spirits Council of Tasters. With global brands and leading craft distillers competing across every major category, this year’s ASCOTs represented one of the most competitive fields to date.
In the midst of that field, BLACK BAND Distillery earned ten medals, including three Double Platinum—the competition’s highest honor.
“Apricots and juicy fruits rock the nose. Sweet spice and oak on the entry, remains fruity and approachable with nice complexity.”
-ASCOT Awards, Straight Rye
“This is really good. There is a milk chocolate, berry note that is fantastic! Love the depth and oak on the end.” -ASCOT Awards, Cask Strength Straight Rye
BLACK BAND Distillery’s 2026 ASCOT Medal Wins
DOUBLE PLATINUM
Straight Rye Whiskey
Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey
Gin
PLATINUM
Straight Wheat Whiskey
Four Grain Bourbon
Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon
GOLD
Wheated Bourbon
Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon
Bourbon
Cask Strength Bourbon
A Win for Peoria’s Heritage — and Its Future
These awards underscore BLACK BAND’s commitment to uncompromising craft and the revival of Peoria’s historic distilling legacy. Each spirit reflects the distillery’s grain‑to‑glass approach, built on Midwestern organic grain, water from the Sankoty Aquifer, and a dedication to the same standards that once made Peoria the Whiskey Capital of the World.
Rather than viewing these medals as a finish line, BLACK BAND sees them as a powerful affirmation of the work underway to reestablish The Whiskey City—one exceptional release at a time.
“Lovely character on the nose with a light warm spice and a rich juicy mouthfeel.”
-ASCOT Awards, Gin
Acknowledging the Partners Who Make It Possible
BLACK BAND also recognizes the partners and craftspeople whose contributions make these achievements possible. Janie’s Farm Organics in Danforth, IL, provides the exceptional organic corn, wheat, and rye that form the foundation of the distillery’s grain‑first approach. The Barrel Mill in Avon, MN, supplies barrels of unmatched quality, shaping the character and depth of BLACK BAND’s aged spirits. And at the heart of it all is the BLACK BAND team, whose skill, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence drive every step of production. These awards stand as a testament to their collective craft.
About BLACK BAND Distillery
Located in the heart of Peoria’s historic Warehouse District, BLACK BAND Distillery produces grain‑to‑glass spirits using Midwestern organic grain and water from the Sankoty Aquifer. With a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and local partnerships, BLACK BAND is dedicated to reviving Peoria’s legacy as The Whiskey City through award‑winning whiskey, gin, and more.
Award‑winning in its own right, the distillery is also home to The Bar at BLACK BAND, voted Peoria’s Best Date Night Destination. Featuring premium local ingredients and BLACK BAND’s celebrated spirits, every dish and cocktail reflects a shared culture of creativity, hospitality, and uncompromising quality.
BLACK BAND remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, sustainability, and innovation—crafting spirits that stand out in the industry and continue to elevate Peoria’s place on the world stage.