ASDA entries up again led by whisky & gin categories

The numer of entries to this year's Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (ADSA) increased by 12 per cent this year with the biggest growth in submissions in the whisky and gin categories.

There are 131 whisky entries this year, up from 88 last year, following the introduction of a new whisky trophy for the show. While the gin category grew from 388 last year to 431 Australian gins in 2022.

For the first time, there are two whisky trophies this year: Best Single Malt Whisky and Best Grain or Blended Whisky, to better represent the category and its diversity. Organisers say that this better represents the diversity of Australian whisky.

“The Melbourne Royal awards programs are always innovating to ensure that they remain relevant to industry and consumers,” said Damian Nieuwesteeg, Manager Awards Programs Food, Beverage and Horticulture.

Sebastian (Seb) Costello, Australian spirits ambassador and former owner of Melbourne bar Bad Frankie, returns as Head Judge in 2022 and will lead a highly regarded panel of 48 judges who are selected for their product knowledge and expertise in industry.

The results will be announced on Wednesday 26 October in the Victorian Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds with 15 trophies to be awarded across ten categories.

Pictured above ASDA Head Judge, Seb Costello from 2019. Photo by Craig Moodie.