Scotland’s first potato vodka, Arbikie, scooped a double gold medal at one of Asia’s most prestigious spirits events against opposition from across the globe.
The China Wine and Spirits Awards judges are selected from across Hong Kong, China and Taiwan to attend the blind tasting, with the region’s most prominent sommeliers, hoteliers, retailers, importers and distributors responsible for sales of more than 50 million bottles of wine and spirits each year across China.
Arbikie’s winning double follows on from success at the Paris Cocktail Spirits Awards, where the Angus brand was named best vodka, and its recent inclusion in GQ Magazine’s best vodkas in the world.
The coastal distillery sitting above Lunan Bay, between Arbroath and Montrose, is reviving the traditions of an industry that took place on the site in the 18th Century.
Judge Fiona Luo said: “CWSA is the international award recognised in China.
“Winners are the highest quality and it is useful for consumers and buyers to see CWSA medals.”
Arbikie Highland Estate director John Stirling said: “It is great to see Arbikie vodka in the same category as some of the most renowned brands in the world.
“Asia is a key export market for Arbikie and to gain recognition from such an influential panel will be incredibly useful.”