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Edmond's Honor Vanilla Madagascar Bourbon Triumphs at 2026 Brand Battle

The excitement was palpable at this year's Access LIVE event in Las Vegas as the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) revealed the winner of the 2026 Brand Battle. Edmond's Honor Vanilla Madagascar Bourbon clinched the top spot, impressing judges and attendees alike with its compelling story and vibrant flavors.

Held at Caesars Forum, Access LIVE is a premier convention uniting key players in the wine and spirits industry. The Brand Battle has become a significant platform for emerging brands to showcase their offerings, and this year's event marked the tenth anniversary of the competition, making it a milestone for both the entrants and the WSWA.

A Bourbon with a Purpose

Edmond's Honor is not just another bourbon; it is a tribute infused with Madagascar vanilla. The brand, represented by Tracie Franklin, its Liquid Curator, captured the attention of the judges not just through the tasting experience, but through the narrative that accompanies it. Franklin introduced the audience to the historical figure of Edmond Albius, a young enslaved boy who invented the process of hand-pollinating vanilla orchids. This heritage underscores the significance of the product, as Franklin expressed the mission of bringing Albius’s legacy back into public consciousness.

"It’s incredible that this victory allows us to share such a meaningful story. Edmond Albius deserves recognition, and with this win, we can honor him appropriately," Franklin stated post-competition.

An Innovative Field of Competitors

During the Brand Battle, each participating brand had only four minutes to pitch their products and narratives to an esteemed panel of judges. The competition featured a diverse array of beverage innovations, including:

• - Oishii Spritz: A ready-to-drink sake cocktail with no added sugar.
• - Dulce Oro: A premium agave spirit inspired by high-end occasions.
• - aryloom: A beverage infused with hemp, made from apples on a fifth-generation orchard.
• - Culch Vodka: A brand supporting environmental causes through its sales.
• - Ice Co Southern Hard Tea: A refreshing tea that boasts Southern traditions.

The judges, from influential companies across the beverage industry, evaluated entries based on flavor, originality, and storytelling. Each judge brought a wealth of experience, ensuring that the assessment was comprehensive and rigorous. They scored the final results based on their own evaluations and audience reactions, culminating in Edmond's Honor's well-deserved win.

Judges' Insights

The panel included notable figures such as Clark Calvert from Lipman Brothers and Megan Iaccino from Great Lakes Wine & Spirits. After the event, judge Gary Gruver remarked on the level of competition, noting the impressive diversity of products presented. “We were blown away by the creativity and passion of the participants. Edmond's Honor stood out for its accessible yet refined flavor profile and the depth of its story," Gruver added.

Looking Ahead

The WSWA Brand Battle has proven to be a springboard for emerging brands, enabling them to gain the visibility and recognition needed to thrive in the competitive beverage market. More than just a contest, it serves as an incubator for fresh ideas and inspiring narratives.

WSWA's President and CEO, Francis Creighton, highlighted the mission behind the Brand Battle: "It’s a launchpad for those who genuinely care about their products and stories. In this decade-long journey, we've seen the power that passion and purpose can have in uniting the industry."

As Edmond's Honor Vanilla Madagascar Bourbon moves forward, its win at the Brand Battle not only signifies a moment of victory but also serves as a gateway to sharing a rich historical narrative with a broader audience. With plans to elevate awareness of Edmond Albius's contribution, the brand aims to encourage more conversation around legacy, flavor, and the stories embedded in our beverages. Edmond's Honor is set to continue earning its place at the forefront of the spirits industry.

For more insights into this event and emerging brands, visit the WSWA website or follow them on their social media platforms.