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Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
The World's Best Vodka- According To The 2025 International Wine And Spirit Competition
The vodkas that won Gold Outstanding medals at the 2025 IWSC. Sophia Lindenberger Vodka may be the most under appreciated spirt in the world. Yes, it routinely tops the charts in sales across the globe, but it's the gins, whiskeys, tequilas and rums of the world that hog all the headlines. That is due to vodka's misunderstood nature; most people think it is a neutral spirit or an invisible mixer. They couldn't be further from the truth. These days, there is a wide array of premium vodkas in the market that showcase subtle mouthfeel and flavor derived from their diverse base ingredients, such as rye's spice, wheat's creaminess, potato's richness, or sugar beet's sweetness. Nowhere is this more on display than in the recently announced Gold Outstanding medal winners from the 2025 International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC). For over half a century, the IWSC has been running alcoholic beverages (over 12,000 this year) through its rigorous blind judging panels to discern the world's best bottles. They just awarded 10 Gold Outstanding medals in the vodka category. To qualify, each medal winner had to score a minimum of 98 out of 100 points in judging. Each of the winners is in the running for the IWSC's Vodka Trophy that will be awarded in November. Here is a brief recap of each winner and the judge's notes. Witchmark Distillery's Single Origin English Vodka is crafted by a young whisky distiller in Norfolk, England. While none of their whiskies are ready for release yet, their vodka and gin are quickly garnering fans; one can only imagine what their aged whiskies will deliver when they are released. Distilled from local barley, it has a creamy, rounded profile, lending it exceptional smoothness and versatility. Witchmark's commitment to controlling the entire process from raw ingredient to finished spirit ensures a pure and clean expression. It's a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic, high-quality English spirit. Here is what the judges had to say: The rich and malty nose entrances, with cocoa-studded dough inviting curiosity. The palate reveals a delightful combination of mint and toffee apple. The finish is pleasantly warming, leaving a luscious, oily texture that lingers. From Iceland's Eimverk Distillery, Iceland's first whisky maker, comes Kría Single Grain Vodka, a truly unique spirit born from its pristine environment. This vodka is made from locally grown Kría barley, used to craft their whiskies, and benefits from the island's pure, naturally filtered spring water. It's a distinct offering that has not been released to the public yet, though their showing at the IWSC should soon change that. Here is what the judges had to say: A fragrant embrace of baked sesame pastry and sweet cream cheese greets the senses, leading to a sumptuous palate of toffee, baked apple, and anise, all wrapped in a silky texture. The finish reveals a rich tapestry of honey and grain, leaving a lasting impression. Adnams, a 150-year-old brewery and distillery in Southwold, England, has some serious credentials behind its Longshore Triple Malt Vodka. It has twice won the Vodka Trophy at the IWSC. Unlike typical vodkas, this is distilled from a distinctive blend of East Anglican barley, wheat, and oats, imparting a truly unique character. You'll find a notably creamy texture, with inviting notes of oat and butterscotch, alongside a natural sweetness from the malted grains. It's known for its remarkable smoothness and approachable complexity, proving that vodka can offer more than just neutrality. Here is what the judges had to say: Invitingly creamy with delicate floral notes. The palate offers a luscious berry mouthfeel intertwined with strawberry, raisins, and a touch of maple syrup. Soft, peppery finish reminiscent of apple pie and a whisper of vanilla marzipan. Delightful. Belvedere Vodka helped launch the premium vodka category in the late 20th century with its distinctive Polish offerings. Their super-premium 10 Vodka is the pinnacle product for the brand. Crafted from a single, prized harvest of Dankowskie Diamond Rye, the "10" signifies the ten stages of vodka creation and the year the distillery was founded 1910. This meticulous process yields an exceptionally smooth and crisp vodka that is far from neutral. First released in 2023, it's designed for those who appreciate ultimate purity and a complex, highly refined sipping experience, setting a new benchmark for luxury vodka. Here is what the judges had to say: Aromas of rich caramel and a whisper of spice. Silky textured palate with a robust peppery character, complemented by creamy vanilla, sourdough notes and delicate florals. Warm, zesty finish that is both silky and long-lasting. Well-balanced with a fantastic profile. Laplandia, a company owned by a family of entrepreneurs, was founded in 2009 to craft exceptional spirits in the Finnish northern wilderness region of Lapland. By using the pure artesian waters of the area combined with wheat from family-owned farms, they can produce strikingly clean vodkas. Bilberry Vodka is a flavored vodka infused with bilberry, a wild blueberry native to Arctic regions, lending a unique sweet-tart berry profile that stands apart from common blueberry flavors. It's a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic and vibrant fruit-flavored vodka experience. Here is what the judges had to say: Vibrant fruity nose underscored by creamy undertones. The palate reveals a delightful interplay of wild blueberries and sour cherries, harmoniously balanced with sweet vanilla and luscious berry jam. Refreshing, juicy brightness to finish, accented by a hint of bitterness. Outstanding. For their second award-winning vodka, Laplandia used another local ingredient to craft a great sip. Its Cloudberry Vodka is infused with the rare and prized cloudberry, a golden-orange fruit found in Arctic climates, known for its unique sweet, subtly tart, and intensely aromatic taste. Like other Laplandia expressions, it benefits from a premium grain spirit base and pristine Arctic spring water. It's a distinctive choice for those seeking a unique, natural berry flavor that captures the wild essence of the Nordic North. Here is what the judges had to say: A delightful burst of orange marmalade and caramel layered with hints of peach and apricot. The palate reveals a captivating sweetness complemented by clove and honey, while a subtle touch of white pepper and dry, root notes linger beautifully. Hawkridge Distillers, a seven-year-old distiller based in England's Berkshire County, collaborated with London's acclaimed Sexy Fish restaurant to produce this distinctive vodka. Crafted likely as a house pour or signature spirit for the high-end establishment, it emphasizes exceptional smoothness and purity. While specific botanical details are often private for such collaborations, the focus is on a refined, neutral, or subtly nuanced profile that excels in sophisticated cocktail creations. It's a vodka that should highlight its three founders, all distillers, skill in crafting memorable bottles. Here is what the judges had to say: The aroma presents a delicate blend of floral and fruity notes, beautifully enhanced by a touch of peppery spice and sweet icing sugar. The profoundly deep palate resonates with creamy hints of smooth vanilla and lusciously crisp citrus. If you have never heard of Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH, don't feel bad; it's doubtful many people have. Located in the Saarland region of Germany, adjacent to Luxembourg and France, it is a 125-year-old distiller with a minimal footprint. They make a wide array of small-batch whiskeys that are sold in the region. Their vodka is an experimental product that they only serve onsite. They must be doing something right since they took home two GO medals at the IWSC. Here is what the judges had to say: Light minerality and creamy vanilla on the nose. The palate bursts with a harmonious blend of woodiness and grassiness, enriched by caramel undertones, hints of stone fruit, and vibrant orange marmalade. A luscious mouthfeel leads to a clean, refreshing finish. This is another winner from Germany's Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH. As stated before, there is not much known about this distillery; it is distinctly local. Korol Black Vodka is another experimental product available only onsite. One thing is for certain, though. If you find yourself visiting the Saarland region of Germany, you should search for this distillery. With 125 years of experience, they seem to be making some great spirits. Here is what the judges had to say: A delightful bouquet of sweet wheat leads to a palate revealing delightful notes of bittersweet cereal wrapped in creamy icing sugar. Boasts a rounded, uplifting finish, where warm spice lingers beautifully on the tongue. Absolut Hunni, a brand-new product from Sweden's iconic Absolut Vodka, is currently only available in England, but hopefully, that will change soon. A naturally flavored vodka, it is crafted using Swedish winter wheat and natural honey flavorings to deliver a sweet, smooth sip. Like all Absolut vodkas, it benefits from a continuous distillation process, ensuring consistent quality and purity without added sugars. It is a super-premium flavored vodka that could change the conversations around the flavored vodka category as distillers look to deliver more natural products to consumers. Here is what the judges had to say: Delightful aromas of fresh Acacia honey, complemented by distinctive floral notes. On the palate, sweet heather honey shines through, intermingled with a lingering peppery warmth and gorgeous hints of fresh honeycomb. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The World's Best Gins-According To The 2025 International Wine And Spirit Compeition
The Gold Outstanding medal winners in gin at the 2025 International Wine and Spirits Competition. Gin, a spirit that can trace its origins back to the Middle Ages, has seen a surge of interest in the new millennium. That's due to its fantastic versatility across a wide array of cocktail styles that have come to define today's cocktail culture. The botanical flavors inherent to gin make it a veritable 'Swiss army knife' of a spirit. From a classic martini to an elegant negroni, cocktails that feature gin have never been more popular. While gin may be intrinsically linked to the United Kingdom these days, there are an untold number of craft distillers across the globe making some fantastic gins loaded with flavor. Their brilliance is on display at the 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC). As one of the oldest and most prestigious annual spirits judging events in the world, the IWSC sees the best bottles in the world sent each year to its esteemed judging panel. The IWSC has just announced the recipients of its coveted Gold Outstanding medals, its highest accolade, in the gin category. To receive one, a bottle must score a minimum of 98 out of 100 points in their blind taste-testing format. To put the scope of the difficulty of landing such an award, the event bestowed medals (silver, gold, gold outstanding) on 264 gins this year; only eight took home the top prize. One of those will take home the Gin Trophy at their gala event in the fall, earning the title of the World's Best. Here is a brief snapshot of each medal winner and the judges' tasting notes. From Saskatchewan, Canada, Black Fox Farms and Distillery has crafted its unique Haskap Gin (40 % ABV) using an ingredient close to home. That would be its farm-grown, hand-picked haskap berries, a hearty Canadian fruit infused in the distilling process alongside gentian root, black tea leaves, and a touch of Black Fox honey. It's an innovative spirit that showcases the untapped potential of regional ingredients. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Deep ruby in hue, the enticing aroma evokes rich, woody notes with a hint of sweetness reminiscent of port. On the palate, it is a powerful and complex blend of deep red fruit and gin botanicals, offering a delightful freshness. France's Loire Valley might be famous for wine, but Distillerie Combier's Meridor Gin proves its spirits pedigree. This 41.9% ABV London Dry is the result of two years of research and development. It offers a sophisticated blend of rose petals, elderflowers, licorice, lemon and other botanicals. It presents a full floral aroma that leads to a peppery kick, resulting in a fresh yet complex profile. Named for a local legend, Meridor Gin is an elegant expression of French distilling and proof that the country is more than a one-trick pony when it comes to alcohol. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Light and fragrant, the aroma reveals vibrant juniper and citrus notes. Rich, bold palate, offering pronounced juniper alongside a delicate spiciness and a hint of bittersweet bergamot. Long, warm finish echoing the citrus character beautifully. A truly exquisite gin. If you appreciate a gin with backbone, the Australian Distilling Co.'s Navy Gin should be on your radar. At a robust 57% ABV, this is a serious spirit. It's a bold take on navy strength, featuring pronounced woody spices like cardamom and nutmeg, alongside classic juniper and fresh pine notes. Layers of herbaceous, spicy, and sweet notes lead to a long, structured finish. This is a gin designed to perform, making it a powerful choice for a classic Negroni or a truly assertive Martini. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Intense spice and inviting citrus notes. The palate is bold and layered, showcasing a delightful interplay of citrus and peppery warmth. A long, complex finish lingers, brimming with herbal nuances that beckon for another sip. From Osaka, Japan, Mikuni Distillery's Osaka Gin is certainly worth noting. A small-batch gin, it can be hard to find outside of Japan. It isn't a typical juniper bomb; instead, it leans into floral flavors with a smooth finish. As Osaka's sole craft gin distillery, it brings a distinctive local essence to the global gin landscape. This is a gin that captures its origin in every sip. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A delightful burst of lemon verbena and lemon-lime on the nose. The palate reveals a harmonious blend of spices and citrus, with cardamom and earthy roots shining through. Lingering finish, leaving a refreshing impression of vibrant citrus and juniper. Outstanding. Singapore's Brass Lion Distillery truly shines with its Pearl Jasmine Gin. This 40% ABV gin is an elegant homage to the classic jasmine tea. Crafted using hand-rolled Dragon Phoenix Jasmine Tea pearls that were gently infused into the gin to capture their delicate essence, it closely resembles a cup of tea. That makes sense since it's part of the brand's Tea Series. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Beautifully golden in color, this gin has a nose featuring light jasmine tea and honey sweetness. The palate mirrors this and adds tannins to the benefit of the jasmine. The perfumed finish lingers delightfully. Out of NSW, Australia, Nine Circles Distillery offers a very well-executed Signature Gin. This isn't about overpowering; it's about harmony. With 14 carefully selected botanicals, it achieves a balanced profile that showcases citrus, spice, and aniseed. It's the kind of versatile gin that works perfectly in a simple G&T with an orange slice but also holds its own in more complex cocktails. Nine Circles truly commits to artisanal production, making this a fine example of modern Australian gin. Here is what the judges had to say about it: An intense and inviting scented with menthol, citrus blossom, and herbal tea greets the senses, leading to a structured and rounded palate. Bright citrus notes intertwine with delicate floral peppercorns, culminating in a long, gentle finish that lingers beautifully. If it isn't apparent yet, the distillers in Australia are turning out some excellent gins these days; four of the eight GO medal winners are from there. 30 Knots Spirits Sea Spray Gin from Western Australia is an intriguing gin, at 40% ABV, designed for refreshment. It expertly blends bold juniper with traditional botanicals and the unique, native Ruby Saltbush, creating a subtly salty and warming character. With clear notes of saltwater, juniper, and desert lime, it's a gin that truly evokes its origins. It's a compelling option for anyone seeking something distinctive and invigorating in their glass. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Green botanicals, complemented by a subtle freshness and a hint of vegetation. Pepper and spice layers emerge beautifully; the botanicals dance in harmony, revealing a creamy, zesty character with earthy and nutty undertones, culminating in a captivating complexity. Hailing from Tasmania, Australia, Turner Stillhouse is making a clear mark with their Three Cuts Distiller's Release Gin. Built using local ingredients and pure Tasmanian water, this 42.0% ABV small-batch release focuses on refinement. Its botanical blend includes green cardamom, Tasmanian lime and lemon, white peppercorn and three cuts of rose petals that add unique floral layers. The result is a balanced gin that delivers organic juniper with bright citrus and exotic warmth. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A soft and floral bouquet with notes of juniper and citrus lead into a vibrant palate where sweet herbal notes intertwine seamlessly. This delightful harmony culminates in a long, laced finish with earthy undertones. Lovely botanical integration with excellent complexity. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The World's Best Rums: According To The 2025 International Wine And Spirit Competition
The Gold Outstanding medal winners in the rum category from the 2025 IWSC. Rum has come a long way since it was first distilled on sugarcane plantations in the Caribbean Island in the 17th century. Back then, it was a much rougher spirit that was known by the names 'kill-devil' and 'rumbullion' due to its high proof, pungency, and harsh flavors, not the smooth sipper of today. Spread across the globe by the British Navy, it became one of the first truly international spirits. Luckily, those days are gone, and we are blessed with an abundance of rum distillers from across the globe crafting some fantastic liquid sunshine. From traditional rum houses in the Caribbean to up-and-comers in Australia, everywhere you turn, there is a new and exotic bottle of rum just begging to be sipped. If you are looking to find the best of the best, look no further. The International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC), one of the oldest and most prestigious annual global spirit judging events, just released the results for their 2025 event. Six rums were awarded a Gold Outstanding award by earning a score between 98-100 points from its blind judging panel made up of industry experts. Each of them is in the running for the IWSC's Rum Trophy to be awarded at their gala event in November. Any one of these bottles would be a worthy addition to any collection if you can lay your hands on one. Here is a brief recap of each with the judge's notes. From the heart of Jamaica, Worthy Park's 109 is a potent invitation to pure, unadulterated rum flavor. This isn't for the faint of heart; it's a high-proof, pot-still masterpiece, bursting with the wild, untamed "hogo" that defines Jamaican rum. It's a raw, unfiltered experience from a distillery that was named the IWSC Rum Producer of the Year in 2023. Made from a blend of 3-year-old rum aged in once-used American White Oak ex-bourbon casks, it is packed with flavor. Here is what the judges had to say about it: The nose opens with earthy notes and dark dried fruit, complemented by a hint of caramel and chocolate. The palate reveals a smooth creaminess, bursting with dried fruits, caramel, and molasses. A long, pleasant finish with a touch of pepper. A rare gem from Martinique, this 15-year rum from Clément Rhum is a testament to the elegance of Rhum Agricole, a style that is rapidly gaining fans due to its terroir-driven character. Crafted from fresh sugarcane juice, it transcends typical rum, offering a grassy, vegetal complexity that deepens with age. This private cask selection, made exclusively for Whisky Brokers Associates, was aged for 15 years in ex-bourbon barrels and is a result of a selection of casks chosen by Cellarmaster Julien Thimon. It's a collector's dream and a journey into the heart of Martinique's rum heritage. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Ginger cake, molasses, and dried fruits, complemented by a hint of dark chocolate and polished wood. The palate unfolds with a rich fruitcake and cigar, brightened by orange zest and baking spices, leading to a warming finish. From Barbados's master blenders, Foursquare, comes Equidem, a 14-year-old expression of balanced brilliance. Master Distiller and Blender Richard Seale's rums are celebrated worldwide for their deeply complex flavors and subtle blends. In fact, this rum took home the 2024 IWSC Rum Trophy and is crafted from a mix of two 14-year-old rums. The first was aged five years in ex-bourbon barrels and nine years in ex-cognac casks, and the second spent twelve years in ex-bourbon barrels and two years in ex-Camus Cognac casks. The resultant liquid is quite special. Here is what the judges had to say about it: The aroma entices with vibrant tropical fruit and subtle hints of wood, complemented by warm spices and caramel. On the palate, it unfolds smoothly, revealing creamy molasses and dried fruit. The experience lingers with a long, sweet, and peppery finish. Hailing from North Queensland, Australia, the Mt. Uncle Distillery is the perfect poster child for today's modern rum makers. Opened in 2001, they have made a name for themselves by pushing the boundaries and challenging the assumptions surrounding rum. For their small-batch FNQ Rums (Far North Queensland), they used locally sourced sugarcane syrup distilled in-house in a pot still. Not much else is known about the rum since it hasn't been released to the public yet. However, rest assured that when it does, it will quickly disappear. Here is what the judges had to say about it: The aroma reveals creamy vanilla intertwined with subtle oak, peppery heat, and balanced jalapeño. The palate showcases alluring touches of caramel, banana, and coconut, rounded off by classic raisin. A rich, sweet finish lingers with a delightful complexity. Outstanding. Monymusk Plantation Rums are distilled and blended by the National Rums of Jamaica. This joint venture distiller owns the legendary Long Pond and Clarendon Distilleries on the island. Made in their historic facilities, the team behind this rum has hundreds of years of experience to draw upon in crafting Monymusk. The name originates from a sugar estate that once produced rum and sugar before the abolition of slavery and continues to support the distillery with Jamaican molasses to this day. Monymusk Special Reserve is a blend of matured rums that have been aged for at least 10 years before bottling. Blending pot and column still rums, it balances the signature Jamaican "funk" with the smoothness of age. Here is what the judges had to say: Gingerbread latte and warming cinnamon, accompanied by rich baking spices. Tropical fruits and sweet oak, masterfully balanced with nutmeg. The experience lingers, revealing a long, complex finish that echoes banana and fruity nuances, leaving a beautifully oily grip. This one is a mystery. Made by Hong Shing Winery Co. in Taiwan, Nine to One Rum is only available in the Far East. It is made in a custom continuous distiller that the team at Nine to One crafted themselves and uses ingredients from the region. If you are an adventurous individual who finds yourself in Taiwan and is looking for a great rum, search it out. Otherwise, you probably won't see it anytime soon in the global market. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A vibrant nose revealing green apples with a hint of sugary banana juice. On the palate, a warm, smooth texture that balances beautifully with its off-dry character. The finish is clean and well-structured, exhibiting a delightful lingering warmth. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The World's Best Tequilas- According To The 2025 International Wine And Spirits Competition
The Gold Outstanding medal winners in the tequila category from the 2025 IWSC. Tequila is currently experiencing an unprecedented boom. Its growth in popularity and premiumization is undeniable, moving far beyond its traditional image to become a highly respected spirit. So much so that in 2023, it passed whiskey to become the second most popular spirit by volume; only vodka is bigger in the United States, its biggest market. That has led to a surge of excellent tequilas hitting the market, not just in the U.S. but also around the globe, as drinkers discover Mexico's favorite sip. If you are new to tequila or a longtime fan, finding a great bottle has never been easier, but how can you lay your hand on something truly special? Look no further than the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). Globally recognized as one of the most important global spirits competitions, the IWSC has been uncovering gems for over 50 years. Its rigorous blind judging by industry experts has established its medals as a definitive benchmark of quality. Earning an IWSC accolade signifies true excellence and provides a critical endorsement in the competitive beverage market. Significantly, seven extraordinary tequilas just earned a Gold Outstanding Medal by earning 98 or more points out of 100 from the IWSC, placing them as the finalists for its prestigious 2025 Tequila Trophy. This recognition places them among the elite in the category, highlighting their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Any one of these finalists represents the pinnacle of tequila production and would be a worthy addition to any tequila lover's bar. Here is a brief recap of each with the judge's tasting notes. For three generations, the family behind Tequila Cascahuín has been distilling tequila in the municipality of El Arenal in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico. Their award-winning Blanco is a masterclass in pure agave expression. Its distinction lies in its unwavering dedication to ancestral methods, particularly masonry oven cooking, which unlocks profound flavor. The result is a vibrant, clean spirit dominated by authentic cooked agave, underpinned by a compelling minerality and bright citrus notes. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Delicate agave aromas intertwine with a whisper of citrus. The palate builds in intensity, with fresh pepper and flickers of cooked agave. The finish - of green vegetal notes and a touch of spice - offers great length. While Tanteo is widely celebrated for its innovative, spicy infusions, the excellence of its core Blanco should not be overlooked. This 100% blue Weber agave spirit serves as the meticulous foundation for all their expressions, which are crafted through traditional slow roasting in brick ovens and careful small-batch distillation. The Blanco's inherent quality confirms that even the base of an adventurous spirit must be impeccably crafted. Here is what the judges had to say about it: A vibrant aroma profile featuring agave, white pepper, leather, and fresh grass. The palate bursts with rich, agave-forward flavours, revealing curious floral nuances of geranium and sweet spices. The finish of citrus and herbs is both warm and lasting. From the accomplished Productos Finos de Agave Distillery, Campo Azul 1940 Reposado offers a beautifully balanced journey into aged tequila. The "1940" isn't merely a number; it suggests a spirit imbued with classic character; it is the year the brand's founder, Don Ricardo Lopez, was born. This reposado is crafted by cooking mature agaves in clay ovens for 30 hours, allowing for direct contact with steam, followed by an additional 24 hours of slow cooking to release complex flavors and aromas. It is then aged in American white oak barrels for six months. The resulting liquid is remarkably approachable. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Aromas of delicate agave and hints of herbs provide an inviting nose. The palate features vibrant agave notes with sweet and nutty marzipan. Spice and florals are layered throughout. The finish is long, with additional notes of olive and capsicum Sierra Blanco holds a unique and powerful position on the global stage, particularly as a dominant force in European markets. Its special appeal lies not in overt complexity but in its unwavering consistency and broad appeal, serving as a significant gateway for countless consumers entering the world of tequila. While not designed for extended sipping, its clean, straightforward profile of sweet agave and crisp citrus makes it an incredibly reliable and effective spirit for mixing. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Fragrant notes of smoky barbecue meat mingle with intriguing blue cheese and ripe pineapple. The lively palate reveals earthy notes reminiscent of Jerusalem artichokes, brightened by herbal sweetness and a spicy, peppery finish. Delightful rusticity. Pancho Datos, from Casa Marengo, is a tequila with a truly heartwarming backstory. Founded by Luis Carlos Grijalva to honor his poetic grandfather Ricardo Grijalva de Leon, who wrote poems about his experiences in the Mexican Revolution, this reposado infuses every drop with a sense of personal legacy. Made using traditional methods in El Arenal, this tequila is crafted from 7-year-old agave that's roasted in masonry ovens and distilled twice. It's then aged for ten months in ex-bourbon American white oak barrels. That yields a beautifully smooth and inviting sipping tequila. Here is what the judges had to say about it: The nose is a captivating blend of herbal and grassy tones, accompanied by pickled gherkin and spicy pepperoni. On the complex palate, vibrant fruit emerges, supported by a robust herbaceous backbone, while subtle wood adds depth to the outstanding finish. Lagrimas Tequila represents a fascinating exploration of terroir in tequila. Created by Altamar Brands and produced in collaboration with the esteemed Rosales family of Cascahuín, each of their releases is a "Single Ranch" tequila. That means each unique bottling uses ingredients from a single agave ranch to highlight the complexities that different regions can impart on a single tequila style. Their award winning La Loma is the fourth field harvested for the brand and the first from the state of Michocan. It rested for just three months and was a small limited release bottling. Here is what the judges had to say about it: The alluring aroma reveals delicate notes of cooked agave balanced delightfully by a grassy and zesty character. On the palate, herbaceous flickers of curry leaves and dried oregano emerge, complemented by gentle wood undertones and an outstanding finish. Ocho Añejo is nothing short of revolutionary, consistently redefining expectations for premium tequila. Co-created by the legendary Carlos Camarena and the late Tomas Estes, it pioneered the "Single Estate, Vintage" concept. This means each expression hails from agave harvested from a specific, named field, showcasing the unique nuances of that particular terroir and harvest year. Every bottle provides the details of the entire process, making Ocho tequila ideal for vertical tastings. Their Añjeo has been aged for over a year, and it's a collectible masterpiece. Here is what the judges had to say about it: Enchanting touches of orange leaves, sweet grass, spice, and pepper, evocative of an antique Chesterfield. The pure, silky palate unfolds with fresh grass and gentle vanilla, balanced beautifully by lively peppery spice and sweetness. A long, fine cigar finish. Follow here for the most up to date information about the ever changing beer, wine, and spirits industry.
