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Globe and Mail
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Kavalan Blitzes IWC 2025 Taking Trio of Whisky, Distillery and Master Distiller of the Year Prizes
Judges say Kavalan's Solist Fino Sherry 'stunned' panel with balance and complexity TAIPEI , July 1, 2025 /CNW/ -- Kavalan has come away from the 16th edition of International Whisky Competition (IWC) garlanded with three top accolades, taking the distillery's performance in international contests to a new level. Taiwan's premier distillery clinched "Whisky of the Year", "Distillery of the Year", "Master Distiller of the Year" in Louisville, Kentucky and will be the custodian of the "Golden Barrel trophy" for winning Whisky of the Year until next year's winner is announced. All entries were evaluated individually, one at a time, across 8 minutes for each tasting, using a strict double-blind tasting format, with no information provided about origin, category, or ABV. IWC Competition Director Max A. Solano said Whisky of the Year Solist Fino "stunned the panel with its balance and complexity." He summed it up: "A world-class expression that stood out from the rest." King Car Chairman Mr. YT Lee said Kavalan was honoured to be recognised at the U.S. contest known as the "Olympics of whisky competitions". "Of all competitions, IWC is considered one of the toughest because only one Gold, Silver, and Bronze medal is awarded for each category. We're humbled and grateful to receive top honours at this competition that has become a benchmark for whisky excellence around the world." Kavalan Solist Fino Tasting notes from Adam Edmondson , Master of Whisky: "On the nose, it bursts with mango, apricot, and grilled pineapple, layered with almonds, dried figs, and oak spice. The palate offers rich plum, brandied cherries, dark chocolate, and the dry finesse of fino sherry. The finish lingers with coffee, sandalwood, and dried citrus." Of IWC's Top 15 Whiskies of 2025, Kavalan ranked as follows: No.1 –Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 97.04pts No.9 –Solist Manzanilla Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 95.78pts No.11 –Solist Palo Cortado Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 95.68pts List of Kavalan awards: Whisky of the Year: Kavalan Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky - 97.04 Pts Distillery of the Year: Kavalan Distillery - 92.78 Pts/Avg Master Distiller of the Year: Zerose Yang - Head of R&D Golden Barrel Trophy Kavalan will be the custodian of the Golden Barrel trophy for winning Whisky of the Year until next year's winner is announced. About the Golden Barrel Trophy Designed in Switzerland and unveiled at Diageo Archive, the Golden Barrel Trophy represents the pinnacle of excellence in whisky making, showcasing two lions holding a whisky barrel. It is casted in bronze with 24K golden leaves on each side of the barrel. The Golden Barrel will be kept by the winner of the Whisky of the Year until next year's competition and the name of each winner will be engraved in its marble base to commemorate the history of each annual Whisky of the Year. Basically, the Golden Barrel is to whisky what the World Cup is to football. About International Whisky Competition (IWC) Established in 2010, the International Whisky Competition was created to offer a truly competitive and credible judging platform, awarding only three medals — Gold, Silver, and Bronze — in each category. With its rigorous standards and transparent methodology, the IWC has earned a reputation as the "Olympics of the whisky world." Whiskies are evaluated through a double blind tasting process, ensuring absolute impartiality. Judges are unaware of the producer, origin, or any identifying details about the whiskies they assess, other than whether the sample is cask strength. The judging panel is composed exclusively of whisky experts: Masters of Whisky, Scotch, or Bourbon, Master Distillers, Blenders, and seasoned industry experts. Each brings a depth of experience and precision to every evaluation. Each whisky is judged individually for up to 8 minutes, using a detailed scoring system based on four main segments and eleven subcategories: Sight • Colour (0 points) • Visual Appeal (5 points) Nose • Intensity and Complexity (15 points) • Distinctiveness of Aromas (10 points) • Balance of Aromas (10 points) Taste • Palate and Balance (10 points) • Alcohol, Body, and Complexity (10 points) • Distinctiveness of Flavours (10 points) • Balance Between Flavours (10 points) Finish • Length and Finish (10 points) • Quality of Finish (10 points) About Kavalan Whisky Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been pioneering the art of single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005. Our whisky, aged in intense humidity and heat, sources the crystal meltwaters of Snow Mountain and is enhanced by sea and mountain breezes. These conditions combine to create Kavalan's signature creaminess. Taking Yilan County's old name, our distillery is backed by more than 45 years of beverage-making under parent company, King Car Group. We have collected 960 gold awards or higher from the industry's most competitive contests. Britney Chen britneychen@
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kavalan Blitzes IWC 2025 Taking Trio of Whisky, Distillery and Master Distiller of the Year Prizes
Judges say Kavalan's Solist Fino Sherry 'stunned' panel with balance and complexity TAIPEI, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kavalan has come away from the 16th edition of International Whisky Competition (IWC) garlanded with three top accolades, taking the distillery's performance in international contests to a new level. Taiwan's premier distillery clinched "Whisky of the Year", "Distillery of the Year", "Master Distiller of the Year" in Louisville, Kentucky and will be the custodian of the "Golden Barrel trophy" for winning Whisky of the Year until next year's winner is announced. All entries were evaluated individually, one at a time, across 8 minutes for each tasting, using a strict double-blind tasting format, with no information provided about origin, category, or ABV. IWC Competition Director Max A. Solano said Whisky of the Year Solist Fino "stunned the panel with its balance and complexity." He summed it up: "A world-class expression that stood out from the rest." King Car Chairman Mr. YT Lee said Kavalan was honoured to be recognised at the U.S. contest known as the "Olympics of whisky competitions". "Of all competitions, IWC is considered one of the toughest because only one Gold, Silver, and Bronze medal is awarded for each category. We're humbled and grateful to receive top honours at this competition that has become a benchmark for whisky excellence around the world." Kavalan Solist Fino Tasting notes from Adam Edmondson, Master of Whisky: "On the nose, it bursts with mango, apricot, and grilled pineapple, layered with almonds, dried figs, and oak spice. The palate offers rich plum, brandied cherries, dark chocolate, and the dry finesse of fino sherry. The finish lingers with coffee, sandalwood, and dried citrus." Of IWC's Top 15 Whiskies of 2025, Kavalan ranked as follows: No.1 –Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 97.04pts No.9 –Solist Manzanilla Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 95.78pts No.11 –Solist Palo Cortado Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 95.68pts List of Kavalan awards: Whisky of the Year: Kavalan Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky - 97.04 Pts Distillery of the Year: Kavalan Distillery - 92.78 Pts/Avg Master Distiller of the Year: Zerose Yang - Head of R&D Golden Barrel Trophy Kavalan will be the custodian of the Golden Barrel trophy for winning Whisky of the Year until next year's winner is announced. About the Golden Barrel Trophy Designed in Switzerland and unveiled at Diageo Archive, the Golden Barrel Trophy represents the pinnacle of excellence in whisky making, showcasing two lions holding a whisky barrel. It is casted in bronze with 24K golden leaves on each side of the barrel. The Golden Barrel will be kept by the winner of the Whisky of the Year until next year's competition and the name of each winner will be engraved in its marble base to commemorate the history of each annual Whisky of the Year. Basically, the Golden Barrel is to whisky what the World Cup is to football. About International Whisky Competition (IWC) Established in 2010, the International Whisky Competition was created to offer a truly competitive and credible judging platform, awarding only three medals — Gold, Silver, and Bronze — in each category. With its rigorous standards and transparent methodology, the IWC has earned a reputation as the "Olympics of the whisky world." Whiskies are evaluated through a double blind tasting process, ensuring absolute impartiality. Judges are unaware of the producer, origin, or any identifying details about the whiskies they assess, other than whether the sample is cask strength. The judging panel is composed exclusively of whisky experts: Masters of Whisky, Scotch, or Bourbon, Master Distillers, Blenders, and seasoned industry experts. Each brings a depth of experience and precision to every evaluation. Each whisky is judged individually for up to 8 minutes, using a detailed scoring system based on four main segments and eleven subcategories: Sight• Colour (0 points) • Visual Appeal (5 points) Nose• Intensity and Complexity (15 points) • Distinctiveness of Aromas (10 points) • Balance of Aromas (10 points) Taste• Palate and Balance (10 points) • Alcohol, Body, and Complexity (10 points) • Distinctiveness of Flavours (10 points) • Balance Between Flavours (10 points) Finish• Length and Finish (10 points) • Quality of Finish (10 points) About Kavalan Whisky Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been pioneering the art of single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005. Our whisky, aged in intense humidity and heat, sources the crystal meltwaters of Snow Mountain and is enhanced by sea and mountain breezes. These conditions combine to create Kavalan's signature creaminess. Taking Yilan County's old name, our distillery is backed by more than 45 years of beverage-making under parent company, King Car Group. We have collected 960 gold awards or higher from the industry's most competitive contests. Kaitlyn Tsaikaitlyn@ Britney Chenbritneychen@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Kavalan
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kavalan Releases Limited 15 Years Old Whisky from 'Time Exploration' Series
'15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky' is Kavalan's first age statement whisky TAIPEI, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kavalan Distillery is launching its first-ever whisky with an age statement, matured in four unique casks: ex-Bourbon, Oloroso Sherry, Ruby Port, and Puncheon. The release marks a milestone in the journey of this Taiwanese distiller, which has broken boundaries not just by region, but now also by time and maturation. The whisky also pays tribute to the historic moment when Kavalan and Taiwan began whisky making. On this day in 2006, the first ever drops of Taiwanese-made new make spirit rolled off the stills, setting the stage for nearly two decades of innovation and craftsmanship. Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky 2025 Edition, 43% ABV, 700ml will be released in just 30,000 bottles globally, representing rare stock from the subtropical distillery's ultra-aged whisky selection. One of Kavalan's oldest bottlings, CEO Mr YT Lee said the 2025 edition has been masterfully blended using hand-selected aged whisky reserves, drawing on the four distinct cask types. "We wanted to achieve extraordinary depth and balance with multiple layers of complexity befitting of a high-age statement whisky. So we created a formula based on a four-cask maturation that would maximise the characteristics of each cask and achieve a rich harmony in the final product," he said. A tribute to 15 years of mastery, Kavalan presents this whisky as a timeless classic, capturing the true nature of time and craftsmanship. The packaging design embodies natural wood grain, symbolising the depth and maturity gained through years of ageing. The bottle design reflects the concept of 'fusion,' harmoniously vatted from four cask types, with textured oak patterns representing their distinct characteristics. The gold-foiled Kavalan logo adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, perfectly encapsulating the refined depth of this 15-year-old whisky. The Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky 2025 Edition is available through Kavalan's official channels in Taiwan, including the Kavalan Distillery Shop, Kavalan Whisky shops, Kavalan Whisky Bar, and select local liquor stores. Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky (2025 Edition) Product Description: Kavalan 15 Years Old, 700ml 43% ABV whisky is a testament to Kavalan's craftsmanship, showcasing the perfect balance of ageing, cask influence, and blending artistry in every sip. Colour: Golden caramel Nose: Captivating aromas of caramel apple mousse, fresh chocolate, walnut cinnamon rolls, and creamy popcorn, intertwined with subtle hints of dried tangerine peel and plum. The finish reveals the sweetness of toffee and black date fruit, evoking a warm, indulgent sweetness. Palate: Lush citrus aromas of bergamot, lemon, orange, and grapefruit dance with the sweet whispers of dried cranberries, raisins, and longan, unfolding into velvety notes of dark chocolate gelato and caramel walnut coffee mousse. The finish lingers with the comforting warmth of woody cinnamon spice. About Kavalan Whisky Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been pioneering the art of single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005. Our whisky, aged in intense humidity and heat, sources the crystal meltwaters of Snow Mountain and is enhanced by sea and mountain breezes. These conditions combine to create Kavalan's signature creaminess. Taking Yilan County's old name, our distillery is backed by about 45 years of beverage-making under parent company, King Car Group. We have collected 900 gold awards or higher from the industry's most competitive contests. Contact:Kaitlyn Tsaikaitlyn@ Britney Chenbritneychen@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Kavalan
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kavalan Releases Limited 15 Years Old Whisky from 'Time Exploration' Series
'15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky' is Kavalan's first age statement whisky TAIPEI, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kavalan Distillery is launching its first-ever whisky with an age statement, matured in four unique casks: ex-Bourbon, Oloroso Sherry, Ruby Port, and Puncheon. The release marks a milestone in the journey of this Taiwanese distiller, which has broken boundaries not just by region, but now also by time and maturation. The whisky also pays tribute to the historic moment when Kavalan and Taiwan began whisky making. On this day in 2006, the first ever drops of Taiwanese-made new make spirit rolled off the stills, setting the stage for nearly two decades of innovation and craftsmanship. Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky 2025 Edition, 43% ABV, 700ml will be released in just 30,000 bottles globally, representing rare stock from the subtropical distillery's ultra-aged whisky selection. One of Kavalan's oldest bottlings, CEO Mr YT Lee said the 2025 edition has been masterfully blended using hand-selected aged whisky reserves, drawing on the four distinct cask types. "We wanted to achieve extraordinary depth and balance with multiple layers of complexity befitting of a high-age statement whisky. So we created a formula based on a four-cask maturation that would maximise the characteristics of each cask and achieve a rich harmony in the final product," he said. A tribute to 15 years of mastery, Kavalan presents this whisky as a timeless classic, capturing the true nature of time and craftsmanship. The packaging design embodies natural wood grain, symbolising the depth and maturity gained through years of ageing. The bottle design reflects the concept of 'fusion,' harmoniously vatted from four cask types, with textured oak patterns representing their distinct characteristics. The gold-foiled Kavalan logo adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, perfectly encapsulating the refined depth of this 15-year-old whisky. The Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky 2025 Edition is available through Kavalan's official channels in Taiwan, including the Kavalan Distillery Shop, Kavalan Whisky shops, Kavalan Whisky Bar, and select local liquor stores. Kavalan 15 Years Old Single Malt Whisky (2025 Edition) Product Description: Kavalan 15 Years Old, 700ml 43% ABV whisky is a testament to Kavalan's craftsmanship, showcasing the perfect balance of ageing, cask influence, and blending artistry in every sip. Colour: Golden caramel Nose: Captivating aromas of caramel apple mousse, fresh chocolate, walnut cinnamon rolls, and creamy popcorn, intertwined with subtle hints of dried tangerine peel and plum. The finish reveals the sweetness of toffee and black date fruit, evoking a warm, indulgent sweetness. Palate: Lush citrus aromas of bergamot, lemon, orange, and grapefruit dance with the sweet whispers of dried cranberries, raisins, and longan, unfolding into velvety notes of dark chocolate gelato and caramel walnut coffee mousse. The finish lingers with the comforting warmth of woody cinnamon spice. About Kavalan Whisky Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been pioneering the art of single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005. Our whisky, aged in intense humidity and heat, sources the crystal meltwaters of Snow Mountain and is enhanced by sea and mountain breezes. These conditions combine to create Kavalan's signature creaminess. Taking Yilan County's old name, our distillery is backed by about 45 years of beverage-making under parent company, King Car Group. We have collected 900 gold awards or higher from the industry's most competitive contests. Contact:Kaitlyn Tsaikaitlyn@ Britney Chenbritneychen@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Kavalan Sign in to access your portfolio
