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DISM – A little water from the homeland of the Vikings

In contrast to the long history of the northern islands, the spirits from DISM have only been on the market since 2008. The small, select range comprises four products, which are all based on the extraordinary spring water of the Faroe Islands. Filtered through the basalt mountains, it emerges clear and unpolluted. Once only enjoyed by Vikings and pirates, now occasionally by their descendants …

The man behind DISM is Eidesgaard Erling, a newcomer from the world of the internet. As with all the inhabitants of the archipelago he was used to drinking a welcoming schnapps before dinner. This strong tradition is, however, a contrast to the fact that there was no distillery on the Faroe Islands. The schnapps came from Denmark. And that annoyed him. His response: “I’ll make schnapps myself!” Or to put it better, he sought out a top quality base alcohol (from wheat), and then attended to the blending and bottling.

ELDVATN is the name of the premium vodka, LÍVSINS the traditional, mild aquavit from spring water and herbs, in particular angelica and cumin. HAVIÐ claims the title of ‘The world’s strongest aquavit’ (with 50 volume percent, just as the Vikings would have liked it). The fourth in the set is BARALDUR (= juniper), the special gin, which is said to have healing properties. However, the water is of vital importance, it is what gives the ‘good spirits’ their soul. If you don’t believe it, you should take a look at www.dism.fo – the breathtaking photos speak for themselves and the fascinating islands.

At the World Spirits Award, Livsins Vatn, Baraldur and Eldvatn won gold, Havid silver.

Château de Laubade: Armagnac in its purest form

The largest estate in the Armagnac region has been under the ownership of the Lesgourgues family for three generations. The Château is located at the heart of the prestigious Bas Armagnac region and was founded in 1870. It was purchased by the grandfather of the current owners, brothers Arnaud and Denis, in 1974. The family empire grew over the years to include various other vineyards (Bordeaux, Graves and Madiran). The Ugni Blanc (47%), Baco (30%), Colombard (15%) and Folle Blanche (8%) varieties are cultivated over an area of 103 hectares, forming a broad basis for the refinement of the various quality Armagnacs.

Here, the focus has been on sustainable cultivation for more than 40 years, and so some 600 sheep live on the estate, grazing between the rows of vines and providing plenty of natural fertiliser. More than 2,800 casks containing 430 litres are distributed among seven cellars. Only the best Gascony oak wood is used to make the 150 new casks required each year and these are produced at the company’s own barrel-makers. The ‘treasure chamber’ of this traditional company contains excellent products from more than 80 vintage years dating as far back as 1893. The ‘Methuselahs’ – distilled before 1930 – are stored in glass containers in a room that goes by the name ‘Le Paradis’. The ‘heavenly’ products made by this market leader are exported to more than 50 countries and are ambassadors for French lifestyle and culture.

This Master Class Distillery 2022 received gold for Château de Laubade Les Curiosités l'Enchanteur, Château de Laubade Intemporel 12 Ans Armagnac and Château de Laubade Cask Strength 2003, and silver for Château de Laubade Vintage 1973 and Château de Laubade Vintage 1982.

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.