#Kavalan #Yilan #Whisky of the Year #Solist Fino

Kavalan Distillery's Triumph at the 2025 IWC

In a remarkable display of whisky craftsmanship, Kavalan Distillery has achieved an unprecedented success at the 16th edition of the International Whisky Competition (IWC) held in Louisville, Kentucky. The distillery walked away with three of the most coveted awards, transforming its reputation on the global stage.

Kavalan's Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength was crowned the Whisky of the Year, scoring an impressive 97.04 points, thrilling judges with its intricate balance and tropical richness. This highest accolade not only enhances the distillery's stature but also allows Kavalan to take home the prestigious Golden Barrel Trophy, which it will hold until the next competition.

Marc A. Solano, the Competition Director, praised the Solist Fino Sherry, describing it as a “world-class expression that stood out from the rest” due to its complexity and balance. Kavalan’s reputation as a premier whisky producer was further solidified when the distillery itself was labeled the Distillery of the Year and its Head of Research and Development, Zerose Yang, earned the title of Master Distiller of the Year.

An Unmatched Recognition

These accolades signal a significant moment for Kavalan Distillery, which has been on a journey to redefine whisky making since it was established in 2005, nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Yilan, Taiwan. Known for its innovative approaches, Kavalan sources its water from the crystalline melt of Snow Mountain and ages its whisky in conditions that combine heat and humidity to create a unique flavor profile.

Over the years, Kavalan has garnered an impressive collection of approximately 960 gold awards from various competitive platforms, establishing itself as a benchmark for quality. King Car Chairman Mr. YT Lee expressed his gratitude, highlighting the competition's tough judging standards and the honor of receiving such prestigious recognitions in what is often referred to as the