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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.

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.

London Distillers: Environmentally friendly production in East Africa

London Distillers has 125 years of experience in manufacturing spirits and today is undisputedly the most modern distillery in East Africa, based in Nairobi. Its founding and strong growth are in accordance with the increasing demand for high-quality spirits. The production facilities span 300 hectares of land at the Athi River, whereby large areas are dedicated to eco-friendly wastewater treatment through a purification plant.

Since its foundation, the company has felt obliged to act with social responsibility. This is supported by a more labour-intensive approach rather than machine-operated, in order to promote employment at the sites. A well-qualified workforce is employed at eight regional branches (Nairobi, Machakos, Mombasa, Eldoret, Nanyuki, Kisumu, Nakuru and Thika). Importance is also accorded to efficient, timely delivery, in order to strengthen the distribution network and widen the selection. From its modest beginnings in 1985, there has been remarkable growth through to today. Over 25 brands comprise a wide selection of whisky, gin, brandy, vodka, rum, as well as the flagship brands Safari Cane and Old Monk Rum.

In line with the responsibility of selling high-quality products, they concentrate on workmanship, a holistic corporate culture and eco-friendly processes. The aim is to become the market leader in Central and East Africa, to grow as an organisation and to be a preferred employer, because people are the most valuable asset.

At the World Spirits Award, gold was awarded to Top Secret, White Pearl and Safari Rare Whisky, and silver to Kenya King, General Meakins and Napoleon Gold Brandy.

Fine Blankeneser Goods: Unity of quality and design

The intertwining traditions of trade and seafaring in the history of the Blankenese district of Hamburg were the inspiration for dedicating a gin to the ‘Jewel of the Elbe’. With the burgeoning East India trade, gin was part of the catering for seafarers, because the high alcohol content prevented the drink from spoiling during longer journeys – unlike beer or water.

Fabian Rohrwasser, distilling master at the ‘Feingeisterei’ at Gut Basthorst manor, developed the ‘Blankeneser’ recipe. Herbs and spices are used that came to Hamburg in the 17th century on merchant ships. The Premium Dry Gin is characterised by a sweet ginger tartness and a distinguishing bitter note. The aromatic support for the juniper is provided by the fruity, tart bouquet of orange peel, orange blossom and lavender, whilst coriander and Ceylon cinnamon produce a hint of spicy wood. Cardamom and green ginger together with angelica root and meadowsweet ensure the finish.

Fine Blankeneser Goods GmbH was founded in April 2018. The founder, creative head and brand ambassador is Sabina Pech. The company produces high-quality gifts and souvenirs in the areas of spirits, drinks and luxury foodstuffs. The packaging and design are important distinguishing factors, alongside the high quality. The elements are all interwoven and tell local stories. The bottle labels are based on illustrations that are enhanced every year to appeal also to collectors – all creations by Sabina Pech.

At the World Spirits Award 2025, there was Gold for Blankeneser Premium Dry Gin.