World-Spirits Online Guide Abo – order now

Euphoria: Rediscovery of an inspiring drink

After being hidden for more than a century, a very old recipe has once again come to light: Artista has been reborn. The unusual story behind it starts in a dark attic, with a yellowed sheet of paper as the guardian of a secret: a bitter drink with an old-fashioned taste, referred to as the ‘quintessence of creativity’. The legend tells of painters, musicians and poets from the old continent, who enjoyed a mysterious, amber-coloured elixir in Livorno that was able to bring their most inspired works to life – somewhere between a meeting at a literary café and a walk along the famous coast of this exceptional town. Freed from taxes and other duties, it was populated by merchants, artists and seafarers of various cultures and origins. It was a port of people and goods, and a crossroads for ideas in particular, which was able to inspire many – even if they were just passing through.

Selected according to the old original recipe, the ingredients were rediscovered and reworked in the search for an elegant and enticing taste. 33 herbs, spices and extracts are traditionally processed to create an exclusive and absolutely timeless bitter. The result is an amber-coloured liqueur boasting a hint of aromatic lemon and a sweet and delicate lasting taste.

Amaro Artista achieved gold at the World Spirits Award.

Fairytale Distillery: High-proof enjoyment from the Highlands of Scotland

Founded in 2018 by Thomas and his team, the distillery has quickly made a name for itself through award-winning, handcrafted gins and the passion with which they create exceptional spirits in the unspoiled Highlands. In picturesque Ardelve, where the hills of the Isle of Skye frame the crystal-clear waters of Loch Alsh, each bottle combines history, craftsmanship and dedication. The heart of the distillery is a copper still in an old witch’s cottage on a peninsula where tradition and innovation merge. Gins made from classic, regional and global botanicals are created in pristine nature. Spring water from the surrounding area, the expertise of botanists Martin and Stephan, and Thomas’ attention to detail ensure that every gin is a tribute to the region and exemplifies a passion for quality.

The success story began with exclusive gins. The specialisation in Navy Strength Gin set a new standard. Classic, Oriental, Floral and Herbal Navy Strength gins added a touch of luxury to the range. Absinthe was later presented, reinterpreted according to ancient recipes with modern craftsmanship. Now a whisky is shedding new light on the history of the distillery. Dornie Dram is an honest blend that combines the tranquillity of the Highlands with craftsmanship. In contrast to smoky, peaty whiskies, it impresses with its velvety texture and harmonious warmth. The distillery’s philosophy combines nature, tradition and innovation, making it a delight for connoisseurs and explorers alike. Each creation proves that there are no limits in the world of craftsmanship and that true passion is alive in every bottle.

Dornie Dram Silver, Dornie Dram Gold and Highland Gin all won Gold at the World Spirits Award.

LA SU Gin: Exotic holiday feeling in a glass

Alexander Kayser and Christopher Schuh are true gin lovers and founders of the brand LA SU Gin – a registered brand of Expo Outline Messebau und Event GmbH in Altenstadt, with Alexander Kayser as the managing partner.

After exploring many trains of thought, it was clear to both of them that it had to be exotic. LA SU Gin is a premium handcrafted gin with a hint of fruity mango. Distilled in small batches, traditionally and without additives, it is made in one of the oldest distilleries in Europe. The mango gives it a special freshness and balances the tart notes of the spices perfectly. Next to the mango, LA SU evokes a sense of travel. Enjoy a holiday feeling and discover new taste sensations. The elaborate bottle design reflects a love of detail and certainly leaves an impression.

At the World Spirits Award, bronze was achieved by LA SU *MGO* Natural Mango.

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.