CANTON, Ohio — Gervasi Spirits has made a remarkable mark at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey and Spirits Championships, receiving two prestigious awards. The Canton distillery was honored as the Grand National Champion in the spirits division and secured the runner-up spot in the Whiskey Championship, marking a historic achievement as the first distillery ever to be recognized on both podiums in the competition’s history.

The competitive event drew participants from across the country, and Gervasi’s portfolio was celebrated with a total of nine medals. The medal breakdown is as follows:

• Whiskey Division: 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
• Spirits Division: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze

Among the standout entries, Gervasi’s Wine Barrel Bourbon, Small Batch Gin, and Spiced Rum each earned Gold medals. Additionally, Rum Barrel Bourbon, Maple Cask Bourbon, and Giava (a coffee spirit) received Silver medals, while Honey Heat Whiskey and Winter White Whiskey took home Bronze honors.

“This recognition is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation of our Head Distiller Shae Pridemore and Assistant Distiller Michael Phillips,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO of Gervasi Vineyard and Gervasi Spirits. “To be recognized among the nation’s finest in both whiskey and spirits is an incredible honor—and it reflects our deep commitment to crafting exceptional, world-class products right here in Ohio.”

Other Ohio distilleries also gained recognition at the event:

2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship Winners:

• Small Batch Bourbon 4-10 Years Over 100 proof:

  • GOLD – Karrikin Spirits – Orion’s Reserve
  • SILVER – Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – Northern Liberties Whiskey Co.

• Single Barrel Whiskey:

  • GOLD – Knox Joseph Distillery – Knox Joseph Straight Bourbon Whiskey

• Rye Whiskey – Under 100 Proof:

  • SILVER – Karrikin Spirit – Rye Whiskey

• Craft Whiskey:

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Rubicon Creek Myth

• Anything Goes:

  • GOLD – Iron Vault Distillery – FrankenBlend

2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship Winners:

• Traditional Moonshine:

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Copperas Mountain Corn
  • SILVER – Flatrock Distilling Company – Flatrock Sweet Corn Moonshine

• Flavored Moonshine:

  • GOLD – Pap’s Hilltop Distillery – Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine

• Barrel-Aged Gin:

  • BRONZE – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Harpers Armagnac Gin

• Specialty Spirits:

  • GOLD – Dayton Barrel Works Artisan Distillery – Gypsy Queen

A complete list of winners is available here.