World-Spirits Online Guide Abo – order now

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.

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.