More than 300 spirits from more than 30 countries were entered, a 65% increase over the inaugural event. The judges were trade only -- buyers, retail store owners, restaurant/bar proprietors, distributors and importers.
Top honors:
Distell of South Africa, winner of the only Double Gold medal for its Oude Meester Souverein 18 Year Reserve ($115) also won Distiller of the Year honors. The Souverein is a blend of rare, long-matured Savalle potstill brandies.
Single Gold medal-winning spirits:
• Armagnac -- Marquis de Montesquiou VSOP, $40.
• Liqueurs -- Becherovka, price not given.
• Mezcal -- Joya Azul Mezcal, $45.99; Real Matlati Mezcal Alma de Espadin, $60.
• Tequila -- Don Julio 1942 Anejo, price not given; Dulce Vida Organic Tequila Blanco 100, $30; El Tesoro Platinum Tequila, $50; El Tesoro Reposado Tequila, $54.99.
• Vodka -- LIV Vodka, $27; Luksusowa Vodka, $14.99.
• Whiskey -- Buchanan 18yr, $76.99; Bulleit Rye, $29.99; Crown Royal $31.99.
The competition was founded by Adam Levy as the first major international spirits competition with trade-only judges. In February, he will unveil the first New York International Beer Competition and in May the 2nd annual New York International Wine Competition.
To Dowd's Wine Notebook latest entry.
To Dowd's Brews Notebook latest entry.
To Dowd's Tasting Notes latest entry.
Back to Dowd's Guides home page.
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