The Ultimate Vodka: Discover the World’s Best According to the 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition

The 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) has unveiled its Gold Outstanding medal winners in the vodka category. Ten exceptional vodkas, each scoring a minimum of 98 out of 100, are vying for the coveted Vodka Trophy, set to be awarded in November.

While vodka often takes a back seat to spirits like gin or whiskey, its diverse flavors and textures are gaining recognition. The IWSC has been a benchmark for quality in alcoholic beverages for over 50 years, rigorously evaluating thousands of entries.

Here’s a look at the winners and what the judges had to say about each:

Witchmark Distillery Single Origin English Vodka

Crafted in Norfolk, England, this vodka is made from local barley, delivering a creamy and smooth experience. Judges noted its rich and malty aroma with flavors of mint, toffee apple, and a warming finish.

Eimverk Distillery Kría Single Grain Vodka

From Iceland’s first whisky maker, this vodka is distilled from locally grown Kría barley and pure spring water. The judges highlighted aromas of baked sesame pastry and flavors of toffee and apple, wrapped in a silky texture.

Adnams, Southwold Longshore Triple Malt Vodka

This unique vodka is made from a blend of barley, wheat, and oats and has won the Vodka Trophy twice. Judges praised its creamy texture and complex notes of berries, maple syrup, and a soft, peppery finish.

Belvedere Vodka 10

A super-premium offering from Belvedere, created from Dankowskie Diamond Rye, this vodka was celebrated for its rich caramel aromas and silky palate featuring spicy and floral notes.

Laplandia Bilberry Vodka

Infused with bilberry, a wild blueberry, this vodka boasts a vibrant and unique character. The judges noted its fruity nose with flavors of wild blueberries, cherries, and sweet vanilla.

Laplandia Cloudberry Vodka

Crafted with the rare cloudberry, this vodka delivers a distinctive profile with aromas of orange marmalade and notes of peach. The balanced sweetness is complemented by clove and honey.

Hawkridge Distillers Sexy Fish Vodka

This collaboration with London’s Sexy Fish restaurant highlights smoothness and subtle nuances, with floral and fruity aromas. Judges mentioned creamy hints and a crisp citrus palate.

Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Superb 5 X Distilled Vodka

From a lesser-known German distillery, this vodka features light minerality with creamy vanilla and a mix of woodiness and caramel on the palate.

Eckerts Wacholder Brennerei GmbH Korol Black Vodka

This experimental offering has a bouquet of sweet wheat, with creamy icing sugar notes and a rounded finish highlighted by warmth.

Absolut Hunni Vodka

A new addition from Absolut, this vodka is flavored with natural honey and crafted from winter wheat. Judges noted its delightful honey aroma and sweet palate interlaced with floral notes.

For further updates in the spirits industry, visit the IWSC website.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!