Kavalan Distillery Achieves Historic Victory at Tokyo Whisky Competition 2025
Taiwan's prestigious Kavalan Distillery has recently etched its name in the annals of whisky history by achieving a remarkable feat at the Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition 2025 (TWSC). This renowned competition, known for its strict judging criteria and high standards, saw Kavalan clinching not one, but two prestigious titles in the 'Best of the Best Single Malt' category.
This marked a significant milestone; it was the first time in TWSC's history that the title was awarded to two whiskies in the same year due to an unprecedented tie among the jurors. The winning entries were the Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and the newly released Kavalan Lán.
During the competition, the judges praised the PX Sherry Cask for its "silky and profound finish with umami depth" while describing the Lán as a combination of "caramelized nuts, honey, and temple incense," offering a "deep and captivating fragrance."
YT Lee, Chairman of King Car Group, remarked on the prestige of achieving this recognition in Japan, a market considered one of the most discerning for whisky enthusiasts globally. He emphasized that Japanese connoisseurs value complexity, depth, and character in whisky, further noting, "It is a rare honor to win the title 'Best of the Best' in Tokyo for the first time with a double win. We are thrilled that our craftsmanship has received such prestigious acknowledgment on a grand platform."
Kavalan Lán Single Malt Whisky (700 ml, 43% ABV):
The name "Lán" is a tribute to Kavalan’s home, Yilan, signifying the region’s identity and heritage. The packaging reflects an unmistakably Asian aesthetic featuring expressive calligraphy and delicate orchid motifs.
In terms of tasting, Lán evokes floral notes of orchids and roses, coupled with hints of butter, vanilla, and sandalwood on the nose, while the palate showcases a refreshing floral-fruity taste entwined with cocoa and spice, culminating in a delicate finish reminiscent of fine perfume.
Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask (700 ml, 50-59.9% ABV):
Known as the "King of Sherries," the PX is rich and warming, boasting flavors of juicy raisins and syrup with a honeyed nuance. This whisky has previously received the 'Best of the Best' designation in 2023 and continues to be celebrated for its surprising maturity, reminiscent of a whisky aged 20 to 30 years.
Judges noted its aromatic profile, which includes ripe raisins, fig jam, toffee sweetness, and a whisper of dark chocolate, with a velvety taste lingering on the palate, enriched by the warmth of sherry.
Kavalan’s achievement at the TWSC this year also includes setting a new record with 7 Superior Gold and 11 Gold medals. Such accolades further solidify Kavalan's reputation as a leading whisky producer that defies boundaries and redefines what world-class whisky can be.
Various jury participants commented on the distinct character of the awarded whiskies:
This year saw Kavalan award 900 accolades at major competitions globally, attesting to its legacy and continued innovation in whisky craftsmanship.
Kavalan Distillery, located in the Yilan County of Taiwan, has been a pioneer in the art of single-malt whisky production since 2005, maturing its spirits under unique climatic conditions that favor intense flavor complexity. This commitment to excellence is apparent in every bottle that emerges from their facility, where the fusion of tradition and modern techniques continues to captivate whisky aficionados worldwide.
In conclusion, Kavalan’s extraordinary achievements at this year’s TWSC resonate beyond awards; they symbolize a commitment to quality and innovation that elevates Taiwanese whisky on a global scale, with an ever-growing following that celebrates its distinct flavors and exceptional character.
This marked a significant milestone; it was the first time in TWSC's history that the title was awarded to two whiskies in the same year due to an unprecedented tie among the jurors. The winning entries were the Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and the newly released Kavalan Lán.
During the competition, the judges praised the PX Sherry Cask for its "silky and profound finish with umami depth" while describing the Lán as a combination of "caramelized nuts, honey, and temple incense," offering a "deep and captivating fragrance."
YT Lee, Chairman of King Car Group, remarked on the prestige of achieving this recognition in Japan, a market considered one of the most discerning for whisky enthusiasts globally. He emphasized that Japanese connoisseurs value complexity, depth, and character in whisky, further noting, "It is a rare honor to win the title 'Best of the Best' in Tokyo for the first time with a double win. We are thrilled that our craftsmanship has received such prestigious acknowledgment on a grand platform."
About the Award-Winning Whiskies
Kavalan Lán Single Malt Whisky (700 ml, 43% ABV):
The name "Lán" is a tribute to Kavalan’s home, Yilan, signifying the region’s identity and heritage. The packaging reflects an unmistakably Asian aesthetic featuring expressive calligraphy and delicate orchid motifs.
In terms of tasting, Lán evokes floral notes of orchids and roses, coupled with hints of butter, vanilla, and sandalwood on the nose, while the palate showcases a refreshing floral-fruity taste entwined with cocoa and spice, culminating in a delicate finish reminiscent of fine perfume.
Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask (700 ml, 50-59.9% ABV):
Known as the "King of Sherries," the PX is rich and warming, boasting flavors of juicy raisins and syrup with a honeyed nuance. This whisky has previously received the 'Best of the Best' designation in 2023 and continues to be celebrated for its surprising maturity, reminiscent of a whisky aged 20 to 30 years.
Judges noted its aromatic profile, which includes ripe raisins, fig jam, toffee sweetness, and a whisper of dark chocolate, with a velvety taste lingering on the palate, enriched by the warmth of sherry.
Kavalan’s achievement at the TWSC this year also includes setting a new record with 7 Superior Gold and 11 Gold medals. Such accolades further solidify Kavalan's reputation as a leading whisky producer that defies boundaries and redefines what world-class whisky can be.
Insights from Jury Members
Various jury participants commented on the distinct character of the awarded whiskies:
- - Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask: "The sweetness dominates the palate initially, beautifully balanced later by a gentle bitterness and refined bitterness, with a silky and profound finish rich in umami."
- - Kavalan Lán: "Notes of caramelized nuts, honey, and temple incense create a deep and captivating aroma, leading to a satisfying profile reminiscent of a Disney princess.”
- - Kavalan Solist ex-Bourbon Cask: "Refined like a Western dessert, with elegant sweetness and a long finish of oak and mint."
This year saw Kavalan award 900 accolades at major competitions globally, attesting to its legacy and continued innovation in whisky craftsmanship.
Kavalan Distillery, located in the Yilan County of Taiwan, has been a pioneer in the art of single-malt whisky production since 2005, maturing its spirits under unique climatic conditions that favor intense flavor complexity. This commitment to excellence is apparent in every bottle that emerges from their facility, where the fusion of tradition and modern techniques continues to captivate whisky aficionados worldwide.
In conclusion, Kavalan’s extraordinary achievements at this year’s TWSC resonate beyond awards; they symbolize a commitment to quality and innovation that elevates Taiwanese whisky on a global scale, with an ever-growing following that celebrates its distinct flavors and exceptional character.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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