The 2023 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards saw a record number of entries, with 86 distillers from across Australia submitting their products. The event marked its sixth year and continues to be a significant competition in the nation’s beverage industry.
Fleurieu Distillery from South Australia stood out by winning the Best Distiller award for the second year in a row. The distillery was recognized for two of their whiskies – Don Quixote and Tapestry. Additionally, the Don Quixote whisky earned Fleurieu the Premier’s Spirit Award.
South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, congratulated the winners and highlighted the growth of the South Australian industry, which secured nine of the 11 major awards. “It is sensational to see South Australian distillers taking home nine of the 11 major awards,” said Premier Malinauskas. He emphasized the state’s reputation for high-quality beverages and the importance of hosting such a significant competition.
The judging panel, led by Head Judge Ollie Margan, had the challenging task of tasting more than 280 products to determine the winners. Margan noted the diversity of the spirits industry and the high standard of entries in this year’s awards. “This year, 249 medals were given out including 43 gold medals, 98 silver medals, and 108 bronze medals. It is not an easy feat to receive a medal in competitions like this one, so all the distilleries who placed should be very proud.”
The awards are a crucial platform for recognizing and celebrating the innovation and craftsmanship in the Australian spirits industry. They not only honor the winners but also offer an opportunity for all entrants to gain recognition and for the public to explore the variety of flavors and blends available in the market.
The Tasting Australia Spirit Awards are contributing to the elevation of the spirits industry in Australia, fostering a sense of community among distillers and promoting the diverse and quality products that the country has to offer.
The 2023 Tasting Australia Spirit Award winners:
- Best Whisky: Don Quixote by Fleurieu Distillery – South Australia
- Best Gin: Triple Juniper Gin Export Strength by Never Never Distilling Co. – South Australia
- Best Vodka: Pluto Vodka by Pluto Spirits – South Australia
- Best Rum: Australian Rum by Brix Distillery – New South Wales
- Best Brandy: St Agnes XO 15YO Brandy by St Agnes Distillery – South Australia
- Best Liqueur: Orsa by Karu Distillery – New South Wales
- Best Vermouth / Bitters / Other: Aperitivo by Ragazzi e Succo – South Australia
- Premier’s Spirit Award: Don Quixote by Fleurieu Distillery – South Australia
- Best Distiller: Fleurieu Distillery for their Don Quixote and Tapestry – South Australia
- Innovation Award: ‘Siropo’ Amaro by Spirito Santo – South Australia
- Best New Distiller: Pluto Spirits for their Pluto Vodka and Pluto Oaked Cane Spirit – South Australia
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