The International Wine & Spirit Competition recently unveiled the results of the IWSC 2024 Spirits Judging, where over 4,000 spirits from across the globe were tasted by a panel of around 100 international judges in London. The judging panel consisted of esteemed professionals including Master Blenders, Master Distillers, Buyers, Spirits Educators, Consultants, and Spirits Communicators.
In this year’s competition, a total of nearly 3,760 medals were awarded to spirits, with almost 500 golds and over 100 gold outstanding medals. Gin emerged as the standout category, securing over 760 medals, including more than 50 golds.
2024 was hailed as a remarkable year for Vodka at the IWSC, with 16 gold outstanding medals being awarded. Scotch whisky also shone brightly, earning over 100 gold medals and 12 gold outstanding awards.
The Liqueurs category impressed with over 340 medals, boasting more than 40 golds and 15 gold outstanding awards, showcasing a truly commendable performance.
Gin Highlights
Gin stood out as one of the prominent categories at the IWSC, with judges dedicating three days to tasting gins from various regions worldwide. Olivier Ward, a member of the Spirits Judging Committee, led the evaluation process, resulting in over 760 medals being awarded to gins, including more than 50 golds.
The classic/traditional gin subcategory excelled this year, with close to 20 gold medals being bestowed. Noteworthy mentions include Naught Distilling Overproof Gin from Australia, which scored 97 points and received a gold medal for its enticing aromas and integrated palate.
England also showcased exceptional traditional gins, with Opihr Spices Of The Orient London Dry Gin and other brands receiving high accolades. Germany made its mark with St. Kilian Distillers Bud Spencer The Legend Distilled Dry Gin, Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Hampstead London Dry Gin, and Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin clinching gold medals.
Contemporary gins displayed remarkable quality, with over 20 gold medals awarded. Mediterranean Gin by Dune Distilling Co. from Australia stood out with 97 points, praised for its inviting bouquet and refreshing flavors. Asian gins, particularly from Japan, China, and Cambodia, also made a strong impression, with Iwai Gin by Nozawa Onsen Distillery garnering acclaim for its unique flavor profile.
