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Forbes
an hour 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 Mail
11 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Remy Cointreau abandons growth targets amid Trump tariff uncertainty
French spirits giant Remy Cointreau has abandoned its 2030 sales growth targets, citing tariffs, sluggish US sales and high levels of uncertainty. The maker of Remy Martin cognac and Cointreau liqueur, which has been grappling with tariffs and sliding sales in its key US and Chinese markets, reported a smaller than expected 30.5 per cent drop in annual organic operating profit on Wednesday. But Remy said its 2030 targets were no longer realistic in the wake of greater economic uncertainty, weak US sales, and tariffs affecting its cognac in China and the US. In a 'worst-case scenario', the group said tariffs and slow sales in China and the US could reduce its operating profit by a high-teens percentage. The group said on Wednesday: 'The conditions required to maintain its 2029-2030 targets are no longer in place.' Incoming chief executive, luxury goods veteran Franck Marilly, will establish his own strategic roadmap for the business, the company continued. Remy joined peers Diageo and Pernod Ricard in withdrawing sales targets that had become widely seen as overly ambitious as the entire sector endures a sharp slowdown from previous boom years for pricey liquors. But the French business, which makes 70 per cent of its sales from cognac, mostly in the US and China, has suffered more than peers as drinkers in both nations ditch the brandy and both governments have levied tariffs. The withdrawal of targets should come as no surprise, but the extent of the tariff hit outlined by Remy had not been baked in by the market, Jefferies analyst Edward Mundy said. Remy said potential increases in duties could deal a €65million blow to operating profit after mitigation measures. As things currently stand, it expects organic growth in operating profit in the year ended March 2026. Sales would also return to mid-single digit growth this financial year, but in large part thanks to an easier base of comparison versus steep declines in 2024/25, it forecast. Group operating profit for the year ending March 2025 fell 30.5 per cent, against a 31.7 per cent drop expected by analysts. This was partially offset by €85million worth of cost cuts. In May, drinks giant Diageo outlined plans to slash costs after warning investors that US trade tariffs could cost the group around $150million, or £113million, per year. Diageo said if these tariffs remain in place and no further import taxes are imposed, it will cost the firm an additional $150million on an annualised basis.
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Andrew Peller Limited Announces Appointment of Renee Cauchi as Chief Financial Officer
GRIMSBY, Ontario, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Andrew Peller Limited (ADW.A / ADW.B) ('APL' or 'the Company'), one of Canada's leading producers and marketers of quality wines, spirits, and craft beverage alcohol products, today announced that Renee Cauchi, CPA, CA, has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Cauchi, who was named Vice President, Finance and Interim Chief Financial Officer in September 2024, has been in progressively senior finance positions with the Company since 2015, overseeing the finance, treasury and risk functions. Prior to joining Andrew Peller, she was at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, specializing in the manufacturing and consumer packaged goods sectors. 'Renee has been a vital member of the finance team for many years and brings a deep understanding of all areas of our business and industry, and has a proven track record of execution,' said Paul Dubkowski, CEO. 'I'm excited to continue partnering with her and our broader leadership team to shape and deliver on our growth strategy.' About Andrew Peller Limited Andrew Peller Limited is one of Canada's leading producers and marketers of quality wines and craft spirits. The Company's award‐winning premium and ultra‐premium Vintners' Quality Alliance ('VQA') brands include Peller Estates, Trius, Thirty Bench, Wayne Gretzky, Sandhill, Red Rooster, Black Hills Estate, Tinhorn Creek, Gray Monk Estates, Raven Conspiracy and Conviction. Complementing these premium brands are a number of popularly priced varietal offerings, wine based liqueurs, craft ciders, and craft spirits. The Company owns and operates 101 well‐positioned independent retail locations in Ontario under The Wine Shop, Wine Country Vintners, and Wine Country Merchants store names. The Company also operates Andrew Peller Import Agency and The Small Winemaker's Collection Inc., importers and marketing agents of premium wines from around the world. With a focus on serving the needs of all wine consumers, the Company produces and markets premium personal winemaking products through its wholly‐owned subsidiary, Global Vintners Inc. ('GVI'), the recognized leader in personal winemaking products. More information about the Company can be found at
Forbes
2 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.
