#Netherlands #Amsterdam #Lucas Bols #Wine Enthusiast #Spirit Award

The Lucas Bols Company: A Legacy Recognized

The Lucas Bols Company has achieved a remarkable milestone, recently being named the Spirit Brand of the Year at the 2026 Wine Star Awards by Wine Enthusiast. This accolade underscores the company’s esteemed position as a pioneer in cocktail culture, recognized for its innovation and craftsmanship over nearly five centuries.

A Journey of Excellence

Founded in 1575, the Lucas Bols Company has a long history of contributing to the beverage alcohol industry. Celebrating its 450th anniversary in 2025, the company has continuously evolved, intertwining its rich heritage with modern trends in cocktail crafting. The recent recognition from Wine Enthusiast reflects the dedication and creativity of everyone involved with the brand—from the skilled distillers to the innovative bartenders who champion their products.

Words from the Leadership

Frank Cocx, the Global CEO of Lucas Bols, expressed immense pride in receiving this award, stating, "Being named Spirit Brand of the Year is a proud milestone for everyone at our company. For over 450 years, we have married craftsmanship with an eagerness to innovate. This achievement recognizes our enduring spirit and the collective efforts of our global team."

The recognition comes as the company prepares to expand its portfolio with new strategic partnerships and acquisitions in the coming years.

A Diverse Portfolio

Lucas Bols brings considerable expertise to various cocktail occasions. Its impressive lineup includes not only classic cocktails but also contemporary drinks ranging from tropical serves to premium tequila concoctions and non-alcoholic alternatives. Their product range comprises popular global brands such as Bols, Passoã, Galliano, Tequila Partida, and Fluère—a non-alcoholic option that has seen a surge in popularity.

Additionally, the company also represents other notable brands like Pallini Limoncello, Nuvo, and Pisang Ambon, ensuring bartenders and consumers have an extensive palette of flavors to explore and integrate into their craft.

Innovations Ahead

The Lucas Bols Company has ambitious plans for the future. Following the grand reopening of the Bols Cocktail Academy and the Bols Cocktail Experience, both of which received positive feedback after extensive renovations, the company aims to launch innovative new products in 2027. This includes exciting line extensions of Bols Liqueurs (such as a new Pink Grapefruit flavor), redesigned packaging, and the introduction of ready-to-drink cans like the Pallini Limoncello Spritz, which successfully tested this past summer.

Recognition and Future Outlook

According to Brett Dunne, Managing Director for North America, this award signifies the hard work of their North American team and all their partners who bring the Lucas Bols legacy to life. Despite facing challenging market conditions, the company reports strong growth for several of its brands in 2025, continuing that momentum into 2026. This progress highlights Lucas Bols's commitment to marketing, brand development, and building a talented workforce.

Jacqueline Strum, President of Wine Enthusiast, praised the company for its adaptability and continuous dedication to enhancing the cocktail experience. "With over 20 brands, Lucas Bols strategically meets consumers where they are in their drinking journeys, whether they seek non-alcoholic options, additive-free spirits, or refreshing spritzes."

The award ceremony is set for January 25, 2027, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco, where the Lucas Bols Company will receive the honor in front of industry leaders and peers. Furthermore, this achievement will be celebrated in the December issue of Wine Enthusiast, marking an important acknowledgment in the world of spirits.

Conclusion

As the Lucas Bols Company continues to innovate and grow, it remains committed to maintaining the craftsmanship and quality that has defined its legacy for over four centuries. With a strategic vision for the future, this recognition as Spirit Brand of the Year is just the beginning of new milestones yet to come.