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Rhumerie de Chamarel - Rhumerie de Chamarel – A newcomer with vision

This high-quality rum from the island of Mauritius is produced in line with ecological guidelines. The products are distributed in Austria by the company Wind GmbH, based in Traiskirchen (www.wind-plast.at).

The road leads through extensive pineapple plantations and fields of sugar cane up to the distillery at an altitude of 300 m in the South-West of the island. Designed by a renowned architect, the building is elegant and authentic and a fine example of modern construction with its natural materials such as wood, stone and water. The comprehensive concept also incorporates the L’Alchimiste restaurant where up to 80 guests can savour the sophisticated regional cuisine. At the “Sugar Cane Spirit” boutique, various types of rum are on offer (White Rum, Le Coeur de Chauffe (fine brandy), Rum Paille (stored in wooden casks), Rum Arrange (flavoured with fruits and spices) as well as an exclusive clothing range, hand-made products and a small jewellery collection.

The location and climate of the fertile valley promote the growth and quality of the sugarcane. The sugarcane is harvested by hand in the early hours of the morning and processed at the mill within four hours. The fields are not normally burnt, as is usually the case, to make harvesting easier. Even when distilling at the highest modern levels of technology, nothing is wasted: the bagasse – the fibrous remnants of the sugar production process – is burnt to obtain energy. The chimney contains the very latest smoke filters and the ash is used to fertilise the fields.

The company yet again impressed at the World-Spirits Award, with one gold and four silvers.

Prevelon: Premium vodka by order of the Kremlin

Kremlin Premium Vodka was created as the official drink for all diplomatic receptions and banquets at the Kremlin and was intended as the hallmark of high-ranking events. The decision in favour of the most traditional Russian drink was unanimous. It was only produced on special order and in limited amounts. The first large batch of this ‘protocol’ vodka was ordered in February 1945 for the Yalta Conference. Kremlin Award Grand Premium came on the market in 2011 and is exported to 38 countries, and in many of them it holds the top position in the ultra-premium vodka category. Since 2016, the product range has included Kremlin Award Classic, which enjoys great popularity amongst all partners.

Two products have been added to the product range. Kremlin Award Organic is based on alcohol that is produced from the highest quality organic wheat, and on natural drinking water. The vodka passes through a multi-stage purification through pure birchwood charcoal. The alcohol for Kremlin Award Vintage is made from organic grains from the same harvest. The wheat grains are stored in a grain silo until they reach their physiological maturity in order to get a high-quality base product. The ‘luxury alcohol’ is then mixed with natural drinking water and, after purification, is granted a resting period. Production is limited to the year stated on the label.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Kremlin Award Organic and Kremlin Award Vintage.

Marder Edelbrände - Variations of Kirsch

Albbruck-Unteralpfen is a charming holiday resort in the Southern Black Forest, in the border region of Germany, France and Switzerland, and also the location of one of the best distilleries in the country. Stefan Marder continues his family's dedication to quality of old hand Edmund Marder.

The family business offers a range of over 40 products, all made bearing in mind the family's watchword "To attain nature's jewels with love and patience". The range of products is huge, the focus in on all possible variations of cherry, from the traditional Back Forest Kirsch to morello cherry, black cherry, wild cherry and cornel cherry and cuvee in cherry tree wood. Add to this pomaceous and stone fruit, wild fruit and marc. The brandies, which are also available in beautiful carafes, are known for their distinct, full aroma and fine, mild balance, something that is highly appreciated by his customers who are the famous names in the hospitality trade. Another speciality is the spirit line ranging from hazelnut to juniper and porcino - a sought-after and proven ingredient for creative cooking. Liqueurs made from homemade juices are another area in which the family excels. New paths in product development are embarked on with whisky, beer brandies and distillates from tropical fruits.

Seminars and distilling courses are part of the Fichtenhof programme, as are participations in international tastings, trade fairs and exhibitions, where the Marders seek inspiration and discussions with colleagues. For many years, Fichtenhof Marder has been ranked at the top of their game at different European awards. Products receiving highest marks confirm the company's quality.

The result at the World Spirits Award: 15th place overall as Master Class Distillery, with gold for morello cherry and silver for quince, cherry, blackberry, sloe and rowan berry.