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Matheus Pálinka – Fruit brandies based on ancient Hungarian traditions

Matheus is a model sophisticated Hungarian company and its products bear the “Hungaricum” title of honour. Only fruits grown, harvested and distilled in Hungary are used in the distillates. “Pálinka” – the colloquial term for schnapps – has a long-standing tradition in Hungary as the climatic conditions produce very flavoursome ripe fruit.

The history of Matheus Pálinka began with a booklet which emerged at an auction. And what secrets did it contain? As long ago as the 16th century, Franciscan monks in the northernmost corner of Hungary (now the Szatmár-Bereg administrative district) were producing high-percentage fruit brandies which they refined to create healing essences using herbs and spices. The production of the modern Pálinka products is based on these old recipes which form part of the country’s culture and authentic Hungarian gastronomy.

The brandies in the ranges “Matheus Spirit” (60% vol.) and “Matheus Classic” (50% vol.) are left to mature in mulberry wood casks for at least three months, which emphasises the silky flavour and the aroma of the fruit. The “Matheus Fruits” (44% vol.) are unfiltered distillates matured on a bed of dried fruits, combining modern technology with old traditions. The wide range of products includes apple, apricot, elderberry, cherry, plum, quince, sour cherry, blackthorn, blackcurrant and Williams pear.

For the 15 samples submitted, Matheus received four golds and eleven silvers at the World-Spirits Award – ranking 13th in the fruit brandy category as a Master-Class Distillery.

Prodal'94 – Strong brands from Romania

Founded nearly 15 years ago, Prodal is now one of the largest producers of alcoholic drinks in Romania. Two stars from the product range – and market leaders in each of their categories – are the Wembley Dry Gin and Stalinskaya Vodka. The distinctive bottle and label designs come from the internationally recognised London company Claessens, a specialist on the international drinks market. At the World Spirits Award, the gin rated excellent, with double gold (Spirit of the Year 2014). The vodka received a gold medal.

The name Stalinskaya comes from the Russian word ‘stal’, which can be translated as ‘hard as steel’. Following an old Russian recipe, the vodka is produced with the most modern technology, the base ingredient is premium alcohol from the best grain. Stalinskaya came on the market in 1996 and grew constantly, today it is the number one with about 40% market share. The brand’s central motto, ‘For the strong’, is a central theme through all the advertising campaigns, whether print, film or video. Lots of ice and snow, a large dose of the male spirit for adventure, and always with a friend at their side – this also describes Stalinskaya: pure and authentic, and of the best quality.

The Wembley London Dry Gin came on the market in 2001 and became market leader in only eight months. It is still the most popular gin in Romania. Based on a traditional English recipe, distilled with the latest technology, it is ‘very British’. The name Wembley also evokes a district with history, and strong links to the concepts of entertainment and happiness. Londoners’ penchant for traditional values is underlined by the label design with the symbol of the British crown.

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.