Successful start of the new monthly format / Best brandy and grape marc spirits awarded / Asbach Selection 21 years top class again
Meininger’s International Spirits Award (ISW), one of the oldest and most renowned spirits competitions, has opened a new chapter in its success story with the start of 2021. Unlike in the past, the ISW now relies on a monthly rotation in which it specifically focuses on individual spirits categories (e.g. gin, whisk(e)y, rum). Thanks to the new format, winning products can now be marketed in a very targeted and precise manner.
The best that can be made from grapes was put to the test at the start in January: national and international wine and grape marc spirits. A top-class jury of spirits experts, distillers, bar professionals and other luminaries from research and teaching tasted the distillates according to the special scheme of the Meininger’s International Spirits Award, in which the products are not only evaluated but also decisively described in sensory terms.
The spirits experts chose the Asbach Selection 21 Years Matured as the “German Brandy of the Year 2021”. The traditional distillery from Rüdesheim thus not only defended its title from the previous year, but once again highlighted the great class of German brandies that can compete with international rivals at the top level.
The special prize “Cognac of the Year 2021” was won by Maison Frapin. With its outstanding Château Fontpinot XO Premier Cru Cognac Grande Champagne AOC, which is produced from the vine to the bottle in the castle of the same name, the company, whose roots go back to 1270, convinced the jury across the board.
The jury chose the Brandy de Jerez Solera Gran Reserva from Bodega Emilio Lustau as “Brandy of the Year 2021”. The house, which is primarily known for excellent sherries, thus also impressively proves its expertise in brandy and sets a real benchmark in this segment.
There is also another reason to celebrate in Piobesi D’Alba, Italy – the home of Distilleria Sibona. Last year it already won the award for “Grape Marc Spirit of the Year 2021” and with the Sibona Grappa di Barolo Invecchiata 2007 it has achieved this feat again. Another well-deserved accolade for a true grappa institution.
