The International Wines and Spirits Competition (IWSC) has revealed its top 10 gins of 2024. These gins showcase exceptional craftsmanship from around the globe, offering unique flavors that redefine excellence in the gin world.
A Closer Look at IWSC’s Rigorous Selection Process
Since 1969, the IWSC has set the gold standard for spirit competitions. It uses blind tastings and esteemed judges to evaluate entries. This year’s top gins reflect the pinnacle of quality and innovation in the industry.
Olivier Ward, Chair of the IWSC Gin Panel, highlights the dynamic nature of the gin industry:
“Globally, gin as a category is blooming, as inspiring, diverse, creative, and dynamic as ever.”
The Gin of the Year: Junipero Smoked Rosemary Gin
Topping the list is Junipero Smoked Rosemary Gin, named the IWSC American Gin of the Year. Its blend of smoked rosemary, fresh lemon, and juniper creates a clean and well-balanced profile.
The judging panel praised it as “an inviting nose with rosemary leading the way. Dry resinous notes and well-managed smoke add depth. The palate reveals smoked rosemary, juniper, and hints of fresh lemon—a pleasant, clean, well-balanced finish.”
A Global Showcase of Excellence
The IWSC’s top 10 list features gins from diverse regions, each bringing a unique flavor. Notable highlights include:
Naught Distilling, Overproof Gin (Australia)
This gin boasts vanilla and pepper aromas with a palate of berry fruits and balanced spice. Judges called it “a gentle giant of complexity and length.”
Garage22 Prague Distillery, Fiesta Gin (Czech Republic)
Described as vibrant, this gin offers notes of kaffir lime and habanero pepper with a gradually intensifying heat.
Strange Nature Distilling, Gin (New Zealand)
Featuring gooseberries, zesty citrus, and a bold juniper forefront, this gin finishes with bright Riesling grapes and coffee.
Emerging Trends in the Gin Industry
Olivier Ward shed light on two key trends shaping the industry. First, London Dry Gin is making a comeback with a focus on real botanicals. Second, regional innovations are flourishing, especially in countries like Argentina, India, and Japan.
Ward noted, “India has seen a substantial uptick in gin consumption, with dozens of high-quality producers emerging. Japan’s gins, often using base spirits like sake and sochu, offer a contemporary twist.”
Celebrating Unique Styles
The IWSC list also highlights evolving gin styles:
- Barrel-Aged Gins like Four Pillars Distillery’s Bloody Shiraz Gin showcase cocoa and licorice notes.
- Old Tom Gins such as Hernö Gin blend sweet and citrus profiles for a balanced palate.
- Flavored Gins like Caorunn Scottish Raspberry Gin emphasize authentic fruit flavors with a strong juniper backbone.
