William Grant & Sons triumphs at International Spirits Challenge

William Grant & Sons has received honours for 61 of its spirits and been awarded two of the most prestigious accolades at the 2018 International Spirits Challenge (ISC).

In a night of celebration for the 130-year-old spirits company, it was crowned both Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year and Distiller of the Year, as well as being awarded trophies for Glenfiddich 40 Year old and Grant’s 12 Year old.

William Grant & Sons also received 13 Gold awards across the Glenfiddich, The Balvenie and Grant’s brands, in addition to 45 Silver and three Bronze awards.

Simon Hunt, Chief Executive of William Grant & Sons, said: “In 1887 our founder William Grant set out to create the best dram in the valley and it’s great to see, 130 years on, that his vision for his company continues to ring true. We’re delighted to have been honoured by the International Spirits Challenge which recognises the passion and pioneering spirit of the people in our business.”

The award winners are chosen after a rigorous judging process – a highly controlled operation held over 10 days of intense blind tastings by panels of more than 50 respected and experienced industry professionals.

Products are assessed according to their age, region and variety which is determined by the entrant and verified by the chairman. Each spirit is awarded a score for its aroma, appearance, taste and finish. 

Christian Davis, editor of Drinks International who oversees the awards, said: “William Grant & Sons continues to astound. A truly world-class company and still family owned and managed. It manages the feat of being traditional but not staid with brands such as Glenfiddich and The Balvenie, at the same time as being totally modern and innovative with brands such as Hendrick’s and Monkey Shoulder. As boundaries and definitions blur, there is nothing unclear about William Grant & Sons’ vision for its future.”

Now in its 23rd year, the ISC received more than 1500 entries from nearly 70 countries worldwide, making it a truly global competition. It is supported by many of the world’s leading spirits producers as the international standard for quality and excellence.