TAIPEI, Aug. 7, 2025 /CNW/ -- In the final round of the 2025 Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition (TWSC), Taiwan's premier whisky distillery achieved the impossible, scooping not just one "Best of the Best Single Malt", but two of the same award.

Organisers said: "Due to a tie, this category has two winners. This marks the first time in TWSC history that the 'Best of the Best' title has been awarded to two whiskies."

Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and new expression, Kavalan Lán, were jointly named "Best of the Best Single Malt" after a rigorous double selection procedure.

Judges found PX Sherry to have a "silky and profound finish with umami depth", while Lán was described as "caramelised nuts, honey, and temple incense" creating a "deep and intriguing aroma".

King Car Group Chairman Mr. YT Lee said Japan was one of the world's most refined whisky markets. 

"Japan is where connoisseurs appreciate complexity, depth, and character. To win the first ever tied 'Best of the Best' in Tokyo is an extraordinary honour. We are thrilled to have our craftsmanship recognised on such a grand stage."

Product Descriptions

LÁN Single Malt Whisky (700ml, 43% ABV)

The name LÁN carries deep meaning. It stands for "Kavalan", pays homage to our home "Yilan" and represents the orchid "lán" in Mandarin, symbolizing Taiwan's reputation as the "Kingdom of Orchids."

This is the first Kavalan whisky named after our home region, with packaging featuring expressive calligraphy and delicate orchid motifs, reflecting a distinctly Asian aesthetic.

On the nose: orchid, rose, jasmine, peony, orange blossom, butter, vanilla, chocolate, and sandalwood.

On the palate: floral-fruity freshness, butter, cocoa, and spiced oak, finishing like a fine eau de parfum.

Kavalan Solist PX Single Cask Strength (700ml, 50–59.9% ABV)

PX (Pedro Ximénez), the sweet dessert sherry, is often referred to as the "King of Sherries,". Kavalan Solist PX is a rich, warming whisky, brimming with juicy raisins and honeyed syrup. In blind tastings, its surprising maturity has judges mistaking it for a 20 or 30-year-old dram.

This is the second time Solist PX has been awarded "Best of the Best," following its 2023 win.

On the nose: rich raisins, fig jam, toffee sweetness, and a touch of dark chocolate.

On the palate: silky and full-bodied, with honeyed dates, cocoa, nutmeg spice, and a lingering sherry warmth.

The Solist series takes its name from the idea of a soloist performing in Kavalan's warehouse. Each cask is bottled at single cask strength without colouring or chill-filtration.

Kavalan also set a new record of 7 superior gold and 11 gold medals in the contest this year.

Judges' notes for select Superior Gold medal whiskies:   

Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask

• Sweetness leads the palate, beautifully balanced later by gentle bitterness and refined astringency
• Silky and profound finish with umami depth and a subtle, comforting warmth reminiscent of high-quality sherry casks
• Rich as dried plums with concentrated aroma

Kavalan Lán

• Caramelised nuts, honey, and temple incense create a deep and intriguing aroma
• Flavours of roasted pineapple, vanilla custard, and orange peel lead to a rich and satisfying profile
• Delicate yet powerful, evoking the grace of a Disney princess

Kavalan Solist ex-Bourbon Cask

• Refined like a Western dessert, with elegant sweetness and a long finish featuring oak and mint
• Aromas of caramel, muscat grape, and peach are beautifully integrated
• Full-bodied and expressive, suitable neat or over ice

Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask

• Lush and complex like a sweet wine, with delightful transitions across the palate
• Prominent sherry character, balanced with dried fruits and oak spice
• Citrus notes rise smoothly, soft on the tongue, recommended to enjoy neat

Kavalan Solist Moscatel Sherry Cask

• Red grape, blackberry, and nutmeg aromas lead into raisin, tiramisu, and black coffee flavours
• Buttery and umami-rich, with a pleasing mix of sweet-savoury notes
• Long and layered finish, with complexity reminiscent of dark chocolate and dried citrus

Kavalan continues to break boundaries and redefine what world-class whisky can be, crafted on the small island of Taiwan, but celebrated across continents.

Full List of the Awards:

Superior Gold

• Kavalan Solist ex-Bourbon Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Peated Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Amontillado Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Moscatel Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Lán Single Malt Whisky

Gold

• Kavalan Solist Oloroso Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Madeira Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Solist Manzanilla Sherry Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Classic Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Concertmaster Port Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Concertmaster Vinho Barrique Finish Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Podium Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Wine Oak Single Malt Whisky
• Kavalan Port Oak Single Malt Whisky

NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- , the beloved tequila brand known for its vibrant spirit and quality craftsmanship, is proud to unveil a new brand platform that provides a fresh perspective on the world of premium tequila. As the brand celebrates its 75th anniversary, the new platform, "The Tequila de Todos," leans into the brand's roots to champion inclusivity, authenticity and tequila moments of all kinds.

Hornitos® Tequila was founded in 1950 with the belief that high-quality tequila should be available to all. From casual gatherings to spontaneous dance parties and everything in between, Hornitos® is solidifying itself as the premium tequila that welcomes all tequila lovers: The Tequila de Todos.

"With 'The Tequila de Todos,' we're giving tequila-lovers permission to enjoy Hornitos unapologetically," said John Alvarado, US Chief Brands Officer at Suntory Global Spirits. "The philosophy is rooted in our founder's vision of breaking barriers and making high-quality tequila that's accessible to everyone – todos. We're committed to democratizing premium tequila, ensuring that everyone can partake in the refreshing experience of our 100 percent agave spirit."

Beginning this summer, the exciting new creative campaign – developed in partnership with The Community – will roll out across media and digital platforms, partnerships and experiential activations. The vibrant collection of content brings the "The Tequila de Todos" message to life with "The Neverending Guest List," which humorously showcases an endless flow of festive guests, symbolizing the brand's role as an inclusive spirit that unites everyone.

• View the 15-second campaign video
• See key visuals from the campaign

For additional information about , please visit

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bourdon Spirits Company, a family-owned spirits company based in Louisville, has announced its acquisition of Copper & Kings American Brandy Company from Constellation Brands. The move marks a key milestone and deepens Bourdon Spirits' investment in the future of American brandy.

Key deal highlights:

• Strategic acquisition of Copper & Kings, a nationally respected brand known for high-quality American brandy and bourbon innovation.
• Spirits production will continue at the brand's Louisville distillery, a standout destination on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® that reinforces Copper & Kings' position in the heart of bourbon country.
• Expansion plans include enhancing the visitor experience and growing national distribution—while preserving the brand's creative identity and commitment to quality.
• Vision for growth: "We plan to build on Copper & Kings' legacy by honoring its roots and continuing to do things our own way, just as the brand always has," said Rob Bourdon, Founder of Bourdon Spirits Company.

"We're honored to welcome Copper & Kings into our family and lead its next chapter right here in Louisville," said Rob Bourdon. "This is a brand that respects tradition while creating with a distinct, American-made spirit. We're excited to bring American brandy to more people, in more places."

Transaction Closing: The acquisition officially closed on August 5, 2025</span>.</span></p>"

The 2025 Restaurant & Bar Design Awards Shortlist is now announced!

This year, we received over 800 projects entered across more than 1,100 categories from 87 countries, featuring some of the most remarkable hospitality spaces from around the world. From this incredible pool of talent, 282 projects have been shortlisted by our influential panel of international - a group of visionary figures working across design, architecture, and hospitality.

Explore the full Shortlist .

The winners will be announced at the at EPIK Dubai (UAE) on 27th October 2025.

2025 Awards Ceremony / ImaginAIre

A celebration of creativity and innovation 

An unforgettable celebration where the world's foremost hospitality designers, owners, and operators gather to honour design excellence.

ImaginAIre: "Five Journeys, One Destination"

The 2025 Awards Ceremony, curated by 4SPACE Design, with identity designed by Glasfurd & Walker, brings global design brilliance to Dubai. Five acclaimed hospitality designers - AvroKO, AB Concept, Hachem, Lines, and YOD Group - each craft a unique journey, converging in Dubai, reimagined through the transformative lens of AI. 

Guests will indulge in an immersive experience of exquisite cocktails and cuisine, seamlessly blended with theatrical performances, stylish fashion, dynamic lighting, immersive soundscapes, and stunning visual artistry - an all-encompassing celebration of creativity.

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