After successfully completing another year of spirits award entries, the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) recently announced the 22 spirits that have received a trophy. Engraved trophies are a popular way for organisations and institutions to celebrate the achievements of those who excel.
The IWSC trophies are bestowed upon standout performers from a wide range of categories which span different spirits, grape varieties, design, and packaging. Following the March announcement of its medal winners, the IWSC reassembled its official Spirits Judging Committee, who retasted the top scoring spirits for each individual category. Consequently, the spirit scoring the highest from each was awarded a trophy.
A diverse range of fine spirits received accolades at the recent competition. Redbreast, A 27-year-old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey produced by Irish Distillers, a subsidiary of renowned French drinks company Pernod Ricard, took home a trophy. Tasters complemented its complex flavours and tropical notes which included caramelised pineapple, nutmeg, cinnamon, gingerbread, apricot jam, dark chocolate with red fruits.
Version Française Domaine d’Espérance, a 17-year-old Armagnac was also among the 22 trophy winners for this year’s competition. Produced by La Maison & Velier, the small batch spirit was lauded for its unique soft leather finish with hints of ripe red chilli and hints of honey.
New for the 2023 edition of the competition is a Fruit Spirits Trophy representing the quality of spirits tasted by judges in this category. Additionally, trophies were awarded this year to three categories from the IWSC Mixer Awards judging.
