World-Spirits Online Guide Abo – order now

Maass – Tyrolean mountain apricot and Fiss barley

In the heart of the Tyrolean mountains, surrounded by mighty three thousand metre high peaks, is one of Austria’s largest apricot plantations. At an altitude of nearly 900 metres at the entrance to the wild and idyllic Kaunertal valley, there are approximately 10,000 apricot trees. Next to an ancient Roman tower – which is where the farm name ‘Turabauer’ originates – you will find an architectural gem, the Maass open distillery in Prutz. Crystal-clear mountain air and pure spring water from the Central Alps make the fruit at Gerhard Maass’ family business ripen to the best quality.

The ‘imperial barley’ is something special, cultivated in the interwar period by Karl Röck and grown until the 1960s on the Fiss sun plateau. This variety is very productive, easy to grow and resistant to pests. In earlier times, it was exported as far as America, until it was displaced by a Bavarian barley variety and forgotten for many decades. Today it is experiencing a renaissance – the barley is certified and of the highest quality. On an area of around 40 hectares it is once again being cultivated, and a small innovative group of farmers, including Maass Distillery and the Zillertal Brewery, have developed new, regional products from it, ranging from a regional bread to beer and brandy – and what Gerhard Maass has produced from it, is absolutely fascinating.

The World Class Distillery 2017 (Distillery of the Year Gold & World Spirits Award 2017 OBB) received double gold for Gerste Imperial Holz (barley) and Single Malt Whisky – Imperial Malt Blend, gold for wild cherry, orange muscatel, apricot (wood), gentian and Gin by Maass brand.

pre·mi·um by S. Kister

Sebastian Kister is the creative mind behind pre-mi-um by S. Kister, a company that stands for exceptional spirits. He devotes himself with great passion and dedication to producing unique brandies from hand-picked, natural ingredients. His particular focus is on spirits made from orchard fruit, which he creates with intensity and precision.

Originally from the picturesque Altmühl Valley with its rich fruit culture, Sebastian has found his second home in Vohburg an der Donau, where he produces today. His philosophy is rooted in the deep conviction that quality of life includes good food, excellent drinks and inspiring company. These values are reflected in each of his products, which are designed to impress both in terms of craftsmanship and emotion. Much more than just drinks, they are an experience. From the first aroma to the last sip, they demonstrate Sebastian’s love of detail and the authenticity of his work. Every drop tells a story of passion, craftsmanship and an unbridled joy in fine spirits. His aim is to make the world of appreciation a little richer – with spirits that not only come from the heart but also touch the heart.

The World Class Distillery 2025 & Distillery of the Year 2025 – Silver (Bitters & Liqueurs) received Double Gold for Altmühltaler Arancello (Spirit of the Year & Award 2025), Altmühltaler Speculator and Altmühltaler Limoncello, Gold for Liqueur Royal, and Silver for Vohburger Nusserl.

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.