Jacksonville, FL – The spirits world is buzzing with excitement following the announcement that Darrin Eakins, founder and head distiller of Dublase Whiskey, has been named Small Business Leader of the Year by the *JaxDailyRecord*. This prestigious award, recognizing Eakins’ innovative approach to blending Scotch whisky with American rye, isn’t just a victory for one Jacksonville-based distillery; it’s a testament to the growing appreciation for artisan spirits and the power of bold, unique flavor combinations.
Founded in 2018, Dublase Whiskey has rapidly gained traction, quickly earning a reputation for its distinctive and complex whiskey profile. Eakins, a passionate and driven entrepreneur, embarked on this venture with a clear vision: to deliver a premium whiskey experience unlike any other. He sought to masterfully combine the renowned depth and character of Scotch whisky with the spicy warmth and robust notes of American rye – a strategic move that’s proving incredibly successful.
The award from the *JaxDailyRecord* underscores a broader trend within the industry – a movement away from mass-produced spirits and towards handcrafted, small-batch offerings. As noted by *BourbonBlog*, “This win underscores the increasing recognition of artisan spirits over mass-produced options,” a sentiment that perfectly captures the essence of Dublase’s approach. Eakins’ dedication to quality, meticulous attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to exceptional flavor combinations have clearly resonated with consumers and industry professionals alike. It validates his approach and demonstrates that small-batch, quality whiskey isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a legitimate business built on a foundation of passion and expertly sourced ingredients.
But Eakins isn’t resting on his laurels. His commitment to innovation is already palpable, and whispers within the industry suggest he’s currently experimenting with exciting new cask finishes. Reports, picked up by *Scotch Whisky*, indicate he’s exploring maritime influences – a fascinating detail that promises to elevate Dublase’s offerings even further. The potential for incorporating oceanic notes, whether through specific cask types or the influence of coastal aging, adds a truly unique dimension to the distillery’s process and is generating significant interest within the whiskey community. This experimentation signals a commitment to pushing boundaries and staying at the forefront of innovation.
“We’re always looking for ways to refine our process and explore new possibilities,” Eakins stated in a recent interview. “The beauty of whiskey is its versatility. We want to leverage that to create truly memorable experiences for our drinkers.”
The impact of this award extends beyond Dublase Whiskey itself. It serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamism and creativity thriving within the American spirits industry. As smaller distilleries like Dublase demonstrate, there’s a strong demand for authentic, high-quality products and a willingness to embrace bold, experimental approaches. This success story is likely to inspire other entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and contribute to the continued growth and evolution of the whiskey landscape.
Looking ahead, Dublase Whiskey appears poised for continued growth and expansion. With its unique blend, innovative cask finishing explorations, and a founder driven by a passion for quality, the future looks bright for this Jacksonville-based distillery. The award is more than just recognition; it’s a springboard, propelling Dublase Whiskey onto a trajectory of continued success.
Key Takeaways:
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Award Recognition:
Darrin Eakins was named Small Business Leader of the Year by the *JaxDailyRecord* for his innovative blending approach.
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Unique Product:
Dublase Whiskey expertly combines Scotch and American rye whisky, creating a complex and distinct flavor profile.
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Innovation & Future:
Eakins’ exploration of new cask finishes – particularly those incorporating maritime elements – signals a promising future and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of whiskey innovation.
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Industry Impact:
The award highlights the growing appreciation for artisan spirits and the importance of innovation within the American whiskey industry.
Learn More:
* [JaxDailyRecord – Full Story](https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/news/2026/jan/29/darrin-eakins-founder-of-dublase-whiskey-named-2026-small-business-leader-of-the-year/)
* [BourbonBlog – Coverage](https://bourbonblog.com/)
* [Dublase Whiskey Website](https://www.dublase.com/)
* [Scotch Whisky – Insights](https://scotchwhisky.com/)
