Latest news with #IWSC
The National
7 hours ago
- Business
- The National
Family-owned Scottish distillery wins 8 awards at prestigious competition
The family-owned distillery, based in Aberargie, won multiple awards at the competition, including two golds and two silver for standout expressions from its acclaimed Islay-led Mac-Talla range, with Old Perth also receiving two silver and two bronze medals. READ MORE: 200-year-old Highland distillery's whisky available in United States for first time Judged by panels of some of the industry's most respected experts, Graeme Mackeddie, master blender at MSWD, said the awards have helped solidify the distillery's reputation for producing Scotch whisky of exceptional quality. He said: 'I'm incredibly proud of the recognition we've received at the IWSC this year across both our Old Perth and Mac-Talla ranges. 'These awards are a real reflection of the care and control we have over every stage of the whisky-making process at Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. 'From maturation at Aberargie Distillery, to blending, bottling and final dispatch, all carried out on site expertly by our experienced team.' (Image: Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers) The standout performer at the 2025 Scotch whisky judging results for MSWD was Mac-Talla Mara Cask Strength, which impressed judges with its balance and complexity, securing Gold. The panel, featuring leading industry names including Dawn Davies MW, Becky Paskin, and Emma Walker, praised the expression's 'vibrant nose' and 'zesty finish'. Also taking Gold was Mac-Talla Strata 15-Year-Old, praised for its tropical fruit character and layered smoky finish. (Image: Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers) The judging panel highlighted the whisky's 'fruitcake, menthol and golden syrup' profile.
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.
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Small Scottish distillery wins international award for wood-fired drink
A small Lowlands distillery has won gold for its wood-fired unaged spirit, scoring 96 points for its depth, clarity and character. A small Scottish distillery tucked away in the Lowlands has struck gold on the international stage, quite literally. Moffat Distillery, based in Dumfries and Galloway, is celebrating a major milestone after its Moffat Moonshine scooped a prestigious gold medal at the 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). The award comes just as the distillery prepares for its highly anticipated first whisky release. The unaged spirit, described by the distillery as a 'wood-fired, unaged spirit made entirely in Dumfries & Galloway ', earned an impressive 96 points, with judges praising its 'depth, clarity and character.' That's a remarkable result for what is essentially the debut offering from the fledgling distillery. 'This is a huge moment for our small team,' said founder Nick Bullard. 'Moffat Moonshine is where our journey begins, raw, honest and full of character. "We're proud it's been recognised on a global stage and we hope it puts our small but perfectly-formed corner of Scotland on the spirits map.' Moffat Distillery is no ordinary producer. It claims to be the first and only distillery in Scotland to heat its stills using wood fires, a method not seen in over 200 years. With an output of just 6,000 litres per year, the distillery prides itself on sustainable, small-scale production. Sharing their excitement in a social media post, the team wrote: 'We've just won a Gold medal! Our Moffat Moonshine has been recognised by the IWSC, a huge honour for our wee distillery. 'This is a win not just for us, but for everyone who's supported us along the way, from those who've shared a dram, to our brilliant partners at Crisp Malt, WHC Lab, and Camlachie Cooperage.' The award-winning Moffat Moonshine has been bottled at two strengths, 48.5% and a fiery cask strength of 61.25% ABV. Distilled in the open air, the team say each run carries its own unique character, with the spirit matured in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks for just seven months. 'Not wanting to drown our own spirit's character in sherry, we decided to bottle the fiery potion when we felt it was ready,' the distillery says on its website. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. While Moffat Moonshine has stolen the spotlight for now, the distillery is also no stranger to blended malts. In 2018, it released The Moffat Blended Malt Scotch, and more blends from its Local Dram series are on the way. These unique creations are developed in close collaboration with local people, drawing on regional culture, history, geography and language to produce a dram that truly reflects the character of its community. 'We create unique recipes,' the distillery explains. 'We source our spirit directly from producers, avoiding the secondary market, since consistency and authenticity of supply are vital to the brand.' All bottling is currently done under contract, and each blend is dressed in bespoke packaging designed by a local artist, echoing the spirit of the community behind it.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The Top Blended Scotch Whisky From The 2025 IWSC Judging
A glass of Scotch whisky The International Wine and Spirit Competition is one of the world's largest and oldest spirits competition. It is also among the most extensive judgings of Scotch whisky globally. The IWSC has just released its 2025 Scotch whisky judging results. Below are backgrounds and tasting notes on the three Blended Scotch Whisky contenders for the coveted Scotch Whisky Trophy. The winner will be announced on November 12 at the IWSC Gala in London. Black Bottle Captain's Cask is a blended Scotch whisky that brings together the tradition of smoky, peated whisky with the versatility of blended Scotch. It's named for the maritime heritage that inspired the blend, symbolizing the journey of whisky casks across the seas. Produced by CVH Spirits, this distinctive smoky expression showcases a blend of different malt and grain whiskies, with a notable emphasis on peated expressions. The whisky is bold and smoky on the nose, featuring a persistent, cold peat smoke. Subtle hints of honey, vanilla, and dried fruit notes, especially raisins and figs, provide sweetness to counterbalance the smoke. Additional roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and a subtle iodine/seaweed maritime note add complexity. On the palate, the peat smoke is pronounced but well-integrated. The whisky is sweet, with a smooth, full-bodied mouthfeel that showcases earthy notes, caramel, dark chocolate, and a hint of dried fruits. It's slightly savory, evoking its coastal origins, with underlying flavors of roasted coffee and toasted almonds. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of peat smoke, honey, vanilla, and a hint of oak spice. John Dewar & Sons, an iconic name in the Scotch whisky industry, is known for creating exceptional blended whiskies. The "Double Double" in the name reflects the double maturation process. The whisky undergoes two phases of aging, each in a different type of cask. The lightly peated character lends the whisky a hint of smokiness, complemented by the smoothness from the cask finishes. The nose is complex, featuring dried fruit notes of raisins, apricots, and dates, interwoven with honey, vanilla, cinnamon, clove, and a hint of floral potpourri. A subtle smokiness from the lightly peated malt adds depth, while a touch of oak provides a rich, woody backbone. On the palate, the whisky is rich, sweet, and creamy, showcasing notes of caramel, dried fruit, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger. As the whisky develops, the lightly peated character emerges, adding a smoky undertone without overpowering the other flavors. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering caramel and vanilla. The smokiness gently fades, leaving behind a dry, slightly spicy aftertaste. The Double Double 38 YO Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a tribute to the art of blending, where multiple single malts are combined to create a complex and layered whisky. It's unpeated, highlighting the richness and complexity from extended maturation in oak casks. The "Double Double" process refers to the whisky's maturation in two different types of casks, each contributing its nuances. The whisky is rich, aromatic, and slightly floral on the nose, featuring dried fruit aromas of dark cherries, figs, and raisins, along with notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla. Oak-derived spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove, add complexity, while the cask finish introduces a subtle note of roasted nuts and light wood smoke. On the palate, the whisky is smooth and complex, with a distinctive weight and mouth-coating quality. Roasted nuts, dark chocolate, a subtle spiciness from the oak, and a slight savory character follow the initial sweetness of caramel and dried fruits. The oak influence becomes more pronounced as the whisky develops, offering a warm, woody character with hints of leather and tobacco. The finish is long and complex, with lingering flavors of dried fruit, oak, and a light spice. Each of these whiskies is outstanding, offering distinct and complex profiles that appeal to both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and beginners. The Black Bottle Captain's Cask offers a robust peated character. The Double Double 32 YO provides a lighter, more balanced smoky profile, while the Double Double 38 YO provides a rich, unpeated experience full of maturity and complexity. All are worth trying, and if you like them, adding them to your whisky collection.
The Herald Scotland
2 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Small Scottish distillery wins international recognition
The distillery in the Scottish Lowlands has won international recognition by taking home a gold medal at the 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) for its Moffat Moonshine, which it says is a 'wood-fired, unaged spirit made entirely in Dumfries & Galloway'. Moffat Distillery said it scored 96 points and 'the spirit stood out to judges for its depth, clarity and character - a remarkable result for a first release from a new distillery'. 'This is a huge moment for our small team,' said Nick Bullard, founder of Moffat Distillery. 'Moffat Moonshine is where our journey begins — raw, honest and full of character. We're proud it's been recognised on a global stage and we hope it puts our small but perfectly-formed corner of Scotland on the spirits map.' Loganair launches new Glasgow route to Newquay in Cornwall Regional airline Loganair has opened up a new route between Scotland's largest city and the very south of England. Loganair has launched a new summer service between Glasgow and Newquay, offering Scots a direct route to Cornwall's coastline and vibrant seaside culture.
