#Taiwan #Kavalan #Yilan County #Best of the Best #TWSC

Kavalan Distillery Achieves Historic Double Win at 2025 Tokyo Whisky Competition

In an unprecedented moment at the 2025 Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition (TWSC), Taiwan's renowned Kavalan Distillery made headlines by securing not one but two awards for "Best of the Best Single Malt." This is a significant milestone in the competition's history, marking the first time two whiskies have shared this esteemed title due to a tie among judges.

The two winners, Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and the newly introduced Kavalan Lán, were recognized after an exhaustive selection process that winnowed down a wealth of participants. Each whisky won the judges over with compelling characteristics, demonstrating Kavalan's commitment to excellence in whisky craftsmanship.

Judges praised the Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask for its remarkable profile featuring a silky finish and profound umami depth. The flavor was likened to a deep dive into the comforting warmth of quality sherry casks, laden with rich notes of raisins, fig jam, and exotic spices that create a full-bodied experience.

On the other hand, Kavalan Lán captivated the audience with its unique bouquet, offering hints of caramelized nuts and honey layered over a foundation of incense. This whisky reflects Kavalan's roots, named after its home region of Yilan and inspired by Taiwan's identity as the "Kingdom of Orchids."

King Car Group's Chairman Mr. YT Lee received the coveted awards, expressing pride in this achievement and recognizing Japan as a premier market for whisky appreciation. “Winning this award at the Tokyo competition, especially for the first time with a tie, is an extraordinary honor for us, validating our hard work and dedication to high-quality whisky production,” he commented.

A Closer Look at the Award-Winning Whiskies

Kavalan Lán

• - ABV: 43%
• - Tasting Notes: On the nose, Lán is a floral symphony with hints of orchid, rose, jasmine, and more. The palate treats with an exquisite blend of floral-fruity freshness balanced with buttery cocoa, finishing as elegantly as a treasured perfume.

Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask

• - ABV: 50-59.9%
• - Tasting Notes: This whisky envelops the palate with its rich, warming character and the sweet notes of honeyed syrup and juicy raisins. Its complexity drew comparisons to much older whiskies, showcasing the impressive maturity Kavalan has achieved in its products.

Through this significant accomplishment, Kavalan Distillery continues to redefine standards in the whisky industry, showcasing its spirit on both local and global stages. In addition to the top honors, the distillery claimed an impressive total of 7 Superior Gold and 11 Gold medals during this year's competition, signifying its prominent position within the whisky realm.

About the Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition

The TWSC stands as one of Asia's largest spirits competitions and uniquely captures the essence of whisky appreciation in Japan. With entries from approximately 30 countries and around 639 spirit samples assessed, it showcases the global diversity of whisky.

Kavalan Distillery, based in Yilan County, began its journey of producing single malt whisky in 2005. The distillery thrives on Taiwan's unique climate, leveraging humidity, heat, and natural resources to mold its award-winning spirits. With over 900 awards to its name, Kavalan stands at the forefront of the spirits industry, earning acclaim far beyond Taiwan’s shores.

In conclusion, Kavalan's historic double win at the TWSC serves as a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and the remarkable journey of growth that has positioned it as a leader in the world of whisky. Enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike can celebrate the artistry behind these exceptional whiskies, truly marking Kavalan's footprint in whisky history.