Ten vodkas have received Gold Outstanding medals at the 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), competing for the coveted Vodka Trophy. This year’s IWSC featured over 12,000 alcoholic beverages evaluated by a panel of judges through rigorous blind tasting. To win a medal, each vodka had to score at least 98 out of 100 points.

Vodka, often overlooked in favor of spirits like gin and whiskey, has a wide range of premium offerings showcasing various flavor profiles depending on the base ingredients used, from rye to potato.

Gold Medal Winners

1. Witchmark Distillery Single Origin English Vodka

   • This creamy vodka, made from local barley in Wiltshire, England, offers exceptional smoothness and has gained acclaim for its rich flavors.
   • Judges’ Notes: Rich and malty with cocoa and mint notes, leading to a warming finish.

2. Eimverk Distillery Kría Single Grain Vodka

   • Crafted from Icelandic barley and pure spring water, this unique vodka has not been released yet but is highly anticipated.
   • Judges’ Notes: Fragrant with sesame pastry and sweet cream cheese, rich in honey and grain flavors.

3. Adnams, Southwold Longshore Triple Malt Vodka

   • This vodka is distilled from a blend of barley, wheat, and oats, providing a creamy texture with butterscotch notes.
   • Judges’ Notes: Creamy with floral notes, offering strawberry and apple pie flavors.

4. Belvedere Vodka 10 Vodka

   • Known for its smoothness, this vodka is made from Dankowskie Diamond Rye, embodying luxury and purity.
   • Judges’ Notes: Aromas of caramel and spice with a peppery finish.

5. Laplandia Bilberry Vodka

   • Infused with bilberry, this vibrant vodka has a unique sweet-tart profile, crafted using pure artesian waters.
   • Judges’ Notes: Fruity with wild blueberries and sweet vanilla, offering a refreshing finish.

6. Laplandia Cloudberry Vodka

   • A distinctive vodka infused with rare cloudberries, delivering a sweet and aromatic flavor profile.
   • Judges’ Notes: Sweet orange marmalade notes with a captivating sweetness from clove and honey.

7. Hawkridge Distillers Sexy Fish Vodka

   • Created in collaboration with London’s Sexy Fish restaurant, this vodka emphasizes smoothness and purity.
   • Judges’ Notes: Floral and fruity aroma with creamy hints and crisp citrus on the palate.

8. Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Superb 5 X Distilled Vodka

   • A local gem from Germany, this small-batch vodka impresses with its mineral notes and creamy vanilla.
   • Judges’ Notes: A harmonious blend with caramel undertones and a refreshing finish.

9. Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Korol Black Vodka

   • Another limited release from Eckerts, this vodka features sweet wheat and creamy icing sugar flavors.
   • Judges’ Notes: A delightful bouquet with a rounded finish.

10. Absolut Hunni Vodka

    • A new addition from Absolut, crafted with Swedish wheat and natural honey flavorings, delivering a fresh honey profile.
    • Judges’ Notes: Sweet and floral with a lingering warmth.

These outstanding vodkas highlight the versatility of this often-underappreciated spirit, showcasing a range of flavors and styles worthy of recognition.

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