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Proud, Strong & Noble Gin: As unusual as its name

Behind the name there is a gin newcomer, the serial entrepreneur and sales expert Martin Limbeck, based in Wesel on the Lower Rhine. With his own spirit, the gin lover fulfilled a long-standing wish, founding the company in 2020. His gin distilled in southern Germany with juniper that is cultivated there. Further botanicals are orange and lemon zest, cinnamon, cardamom and lemongrass, as well as apple wedges that stand for the homeland of the gin. The gin is 100% manual work, distilled three times under vacuum and refined with exceptionally soft water. A procedure unique in Germany gives it an extra special something. The outlet tap of the still is silver-coated, so the alcohol distils at just 40°C, which is significantly more gentle compared to a classical copper pot still.

“A gin that smells and tastes good is only half the story. But as a seller I know: the name, appearance and feel of a product are at least equally important! I wanted a name that is unusual and distinctive.” The gin has a sleek look in a matte black bottle, with an eye-catching, shiny, silver metal label showing four poodles. This is not the result of a creative design competition but they are the loyal companions of Martin Limbeck and his wife Andrea. As lively brand ambassadors, they attract attention on the website and on the brand’s social media channels.

At the World Spirits Award, silver was awarded to Proud, Strong & Noble Gin.

Roust Hungary: Affordable luxury on the spirits market

Roust was founded in 1992 by the Russian businessman Roustam Tariko and quickly developed into a leading business group in the sale of premium spirits brands. One of the world’s leading vodka producers, the company is present in more than 80 countries. Roust owns production plants and distribution centres in Hungary, Russia and Italy. The comprehensive portfolio includes the flagship vodka brands of Russian Standard, Green Mark, Parliament and Zhuravli.

Thanks to its extensive knowledge in sales and marketing and its commitment to responsible alcohol consumption, Roust Hungary has become the leading supplier on the domestic spirits market. The largest premium spirits company in Hungary also sells the Royal, Zubrówka, Russian Standard, Gancia, Grants, Jägermeister and Metaxa brands.

For years, Royal Vodka has maintained its position as the most popular and well-known vodka brand in Hungary, and also remains market leader in terms of volume and turnover. Royal Vodka is produced using natural ingredients, from the grain to the well water, which contributes to its mild taste.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Royal Original Vodka, and bronze for Royal Raspberry Liqueur.

Edward Snell – Whisky from South Africa

Edward Snell founded a trading company in Durban in 1848, from which the oldest spirit company in South Africa developed over 160 years. Following an eventful history, the company is now once again in the hands of the family. Besides their own brands they also sell numerous local and international drink brands, mostly in various markets in Africa and the Middle East.

The wide range of products includes whisky, brandy, vodka, rum, gin, tequila and cognac. One outstanding label is Firstwatch Whisky with its new look, a striking, square bottle design. Consumer demand for a whisky with an American taste profile has been perfected over time and is presented today as a balanced blend of the finest imported rye and grain. Whether pure, on the rocks or mixed – its diversity makes it popular with many different target groups and successful in one of the largest spirit segments in South Africa.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Firstwatch Whisky.