TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Spirit Types
Extra old Cognac label is the one with a blend that has been aged the longest. Although the previous legislation stated that XO needs to be at least six years old, new categorization, which will be fully implemented by March 31, 2019, will indicate that to be labeled as an XO, the blend will have to be at least ten years old.
However, the age limitation only signifies that the youngest in the blend is six (ten) years old, but when it comes to XO most blends are significantly older than that. XO Cognac should always be served neat in a snifter glass, and are best enjoyed as a digestif.
THE BEST XO Cognac Brandies


Martell
Single Cru Grande Champagne XO
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024

Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021

Courvoisier
Cognac XO Royal
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Often dubbed as the whisky center, Speyside is one of five official Scottish whisky regions. Although it is geographically a part of Highlands, this area is a separate appellation, because of the large concentration of distilleries and the high-quality single malts that come from the area.
Whiskies that are produced in the region are less peaty than other styles, but their character can vary from floral and fruity to rich and spicy. Although they were once similar to the robust styles in the Highlands, most distilleries in the area have shifted their focus on lighter and sweeter styles that display classic flavors of vanilla, apple, honey, oak, and dry fruit.
THE BEST Speyside whisky Spirits




Longmorn
Longmorn 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024

The Glenlivet
The Glenlivet 15 Years Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold 2021, 2020
Tsikoudia is a Cretan spirit that is distilled from fermented grape pomace (strafylo)—the solid remains that are left after the grapes have been pressed. Tsikoudia is traditionally distilled in October and November, usually in small, family-owned copper stills.
The final product is a clear, potent, and colorless drink with an alcohol content that can vary from 40 to 65% ABV. Tsikoudia is similar to tsipouro, another pomace spirit that is produced in other parts of Greece. Unlike tsipouro, tsikoudia is typically distilled only once, which helps preserve flavors and aromas.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Viljamovka is a type of fruit brandy (rakija) that is distilled from Williams pear. This mellow and aromatic spirit is produced and enjoyed in several Balkan countries. It is often regarded as the finest type of fruit brandy produced in the region.
Viljamovka is made with fresh, ripe pears that are fermented before they are distilled. The result is a clear and colorless spirit that typically has an intensive pear aroma, mellow flavor, and a long, warming finish. Viljamovka is traditionally enjoyed as an aperitif.
Slavonian plum brandy is the most popular drink in eastern Croatia. It is distilled from locally grown fresh and ripe plums such as Bistrica, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. This clear drink can range from light yellow to amber in color, depending on whether it is aged in Slavonian oak.
It is characterized by harmonious aromas of plums and a long finish, while its alcohol content may range from 37.5 to 42.5%. Slavonian šljivovica is not merely a drink, it is deeply integrated into Slavonian tradition, and no special event or gathering is complete without a shot of well-chilled šljivovica.
Considered to be one of the first grape brandy varieties produced in France, Armagnac originated in Gascony, a historic area now divided between the regions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie. The first written records on Armagnac date back to the 15th century, when it was mainly used as a stomach remedy.
Although the predominant grape is Ugni Blanc, ten different grapes are allowed in its production, and since the 19th century, Armagnac is almost always distilled once. The final blend is then aged in oak casks for a minimum of two years. Maturation provides Armagnac with the signature complex flavor, and while young varieties show vanilla and honey notes, matured versions are typically characterized by the flavor of roasted nuts, licorice, and tobacco.
THE BEST Armagnac Brandies

Domaine Du Grand Comte
Hors D’age
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023

Domaine Du Grand Comte
Napoleon
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023

Château du Tariquet
Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Armagnac Gold Trophy 2020

Chateau de Laubade
Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy 2022
Ortolan
De Sable XO Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2024
Islay is a Scottish island and one of the officially recognized Scottish whisky regions. There are nine operational distilleries on the island, and most of them produce strong, robust, smoky, and peated whisky, but there are also fruity and smooth examples.
Southern distilleries mostly rely on peat, and their whisky tends to be packed with salinity, while those in the north mostly focus on slightly milder and lighter styles. Regardless of some differences, Islay whisky is complimented as the strongest-flavored variety.
In terms of size, Highland is the largest region designated for the production of Scottish whisky. It covers most of the Scottish mainland, and though it sometimes includes the islands, they are mostly regarded as a separate region. Because of its size and diverse geography, Highland single malts may significantly vary in character.
Single malts from the north tend to be full-bodied, rich, and sweet, while those found in the east and the south will be lighter and more fruity. Styles from the west are typically more powerful, peaty, and smoky. Some of the top producers include Dalmore, Glenmorangie, Aberfeldy, Glen Garioch, Clynelish, Pulteney, and Oban.
Very superior old pale is a Cognac category whose blend is aged for at least four years—which means that the youngest brandy mixed in the blend is four years old, while the others can be aged for longer. VSOP is both lively and serious, and it can be enjoyed on its own, preferably slowly sipped from a snifter glass, but it also incorporates well into mixed drinks and cocktails.
THE BEST VSOP Cognac Brandies

Domaine Du Grand Comte
VSOP
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023



Campbeltown is a small whisky region that was once the center of Scottish whisky production. Nowadays, there are only three distilleries left, but Campbeltown remains an important area that produces distinctive and unique styles. Whisky from Campbeltown can slightly vary in character, but they are usually peaty and often robust, with salty, smoky, and fruity nuances that are complemented by hints of vanilla and toffee.
Three distilleries in Campbeltown are Springbank, Glengyle, and Glen Scotia.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Spirit Producers
Redbreast is a brand of single pot still Irish Whiskey produced by the Irish Distillers subsidiary of Pernod Ricard. It was originally bottled by Gilbey's, a Dublin spirits merchant using distillate sourced from Jameson's Bow Street Distillery.[1] In the 1980s, the brand was purchased by Irish Distillers, the producer of Jameson.
It is the largest selling single pot still Irish whiskey in the world.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021, 2020
Highland Park Distillery, located in Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, Scotland, is one of the oldest distilleries in the country, founded in 1798. Known for its distinctively rich and smoky single malt whiskies, Highland Park combines traditional craftsmanship with the unique influence of Orkney’s coastal climate and local peat.
The distillery's whiskies are celebrated for their balance of heather honey sweetness and aromatic peat smoke, crafted using time-honored methods and aged in sherry-seasoned oak casks.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
BEST Highland Park Spirits
Plantation Rum is a distinguished rum brand known for producing high-quality spirits with a focus on traditional craftsmanship and distinctive flavors. It is part of the Maison Ferrand family, a renowned producer of fine spirits, including cognac.
Plantation Rum is sourced from various regions around the world, including the Caribbean and Central America, where it is distilled using time-honored methods and aged in a combination of tropical and European barrels to enhance its complexity and character.
Plantation Rum is celebrated for its range of expressions, from rich, spiced varieties to more delicate, fruity offerings. The rum is crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the sugarcane and the aging process, with each bottle reflecting the terroir of its origin.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

The Rum & Cachaça Masters - Gold
2023, 2022

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023, 2022, 2019
BEST Plantation Rum Spirits
Loch Lomond Whiskies is a renowned Scottish whisky brand, celebrated for its high-quality single malt and blended whiskies. Based near the iconic Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands, the distillery draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty and pure water source, which contribute to the distinct character of its whiskies.
The brand is known for its innovation in whisky production, utilizing unique distillation methods. One of their signature techniques is the use of a custom-designed still, called the “Loch Lomond still,” which allows for a wide range of flavor profiles, from rich and fruity to smooth and smoky.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
Distilleria Sibona is one of the oldest distilleries in the Piedmont region, located in the heart of Roero. It is renowned for its artisanal production of grappa, utilizing fresh pomace from prestigious local wineries. Sibona holds a unique historical distillation license and prides itself on its deep connection to traditional methods while incorporating modern techniques to ensure high-quality products.
Their grappa is aged in various types of barrels, including those used for sherry, port, and whiskey, enhancing the flavor profile and creating distinctive spirits.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2022, 2021, 2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021
BEST Distilleria Sibona Spirits
Torres Brandy is a renowned Spanish producer of high-quality brandies and spirits, based in Vilafranca del Penedès, Barcelona. The brand is part of the Torres family legacy, which has been dedicated to winemaking and distillation for generations since 1928.
They are recognized for blending tradition with innovation, producing premium spirits crafted from select white wines and aged meticulously in oak barrels. Their product portfolio includes various expressions of brandy, such as Torres 10, Torres 15, Torres 20, and Jaime I, each representing distinct levels of aging and complexity.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Miguel Torres Spirits
Royal Salute is a blended Scotch whisky brand produced and bottled by Chivas Brothers in Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Royal Salute is a luxury Scotch whisky brand, launched in 1953 as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Known for its exclusivity, Royal Salute only produces whiskies aged 21 years or more, combining elegance and quality.
The brand celebrates British heritage through special releases and collaborations in art, fashion, and polo. Each bottle reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and tradition, catering to connoisseurs worldwide.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2021, 2020, 2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Ardbeg is a renowned Scottish whisky distillery from the island of Islay, celebrated for the intensely smoky and distinctive flavor of its products. Founded in 1815, the distillery is recognized for its unique process of drying barley over a peat fire, which imparts a singular aroma and richness to their whiskies.
With numerous awards and a loyal fan base worldwide, Ardbeg whisky is hailed as one of the most esteemed representations of the Islay style, often described as a true delight for peat lovers.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Ferrand Cognac is a prestigious and renowned producer of high-quality cognac, based in the heart of the Cognac region in France. Founded in 1989 by Alexandre Gabriel, Ferrand is dedicated to producing premium, artisanal cognac using traditional methods and the finest ingredients.
The brand is known for its focus on craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation, creating some of the most refined and well-respected cognacs in the world. Ferrand Cognac uses grapes from the renowned Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus, the top-rated regions in Cognac production.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2014
BEST Ferrand Cognac Spirits
Domaine Grand Comté, located in Roquelaure in the Gers department of southwestern France, is a family-owned estate managed by Michel Baylac and his daughter Aurélie, continuing a legacy dating back to 1860. The estate spans 15 hectares of vineyards planted on clay-limestone soils typical of the Haut-Armagnac terroir, and operates under sustainable farming practices that respect the environment.
Domaine Grand Comté produces a range of high-quality beverages, including IGP Côtes de Gascogne wines (red, rosé, and white), traditional Floc de Gascogne aperitifs, and aged Armagnac. The estate also offers sparkling wines crafted through traditional fermentation methods.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Domaine Du Grand Comte Spirits
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Spirits
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023, 2022
Knappogue Castle offers a distinguished range of limited-edition single malt Irish whiskeys, each showcasing unique aging processes and cask finishes. Notably, the Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old Single Malt is a marriage of two single malts—one aged 23 years and the other 21 years—both matured in ex-bourbon casks.
This expression is non-chill filtered and bottled at 92 proof, delivering a soft and mellow taste with malty richness throughout.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
The Highland Park 21-Year-Old 2022 release is a complex and mature whisky crafted from 14 casks laid down in 2000 and earlier. It opens with aromas of espresso, dark chocolate, and marmalade, followed by ginger and oriental spice from sherry-seasoned oak.
Sweet citrus and cedar notes from ex-bourbon barrels add complexity, with heather-infused peat smoke tying it all together. It's an exceptional example of Highland Park's craftsmanship, combining three distinctive cask types.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Torres 20 Hors d'Age is a premium Spanish brandy, renowned for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. It is aged using the solera method, with oak barrels contributing to its rich complexity. The brandy features a velvety texture and flavors of dried fruits, vanilla, spices, and toasted wood.
Its aroma is elegant, offering notes of caramel, nuts, and subtle oak. This luxurious spirit is ideal for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift for brandy connoisseurs.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Brandy Gold Trophy
2023
Talisker 30 YO is an extremely rare, well-matured single malt bottled in strictly limited quantities. Three decades of purposeful, skilled ageing have nurtured and gently shaped this visceral whisky, created in celebration of the highest summit in Skye.
In it's lofty heights, the wild and untamed nature of this fascinating island is revealed in all its glory, and so Talisker 30 YO is also among the absolute best that Skye has to offer.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Depaz Reserve Speciale VSOP is a premium aged rum crafted in Martinique, made from fresh sugarcane juice grown on the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Pelée. This VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) rum is aged for at least four years in small oak barrels, which impart rich and complex flavors of vanilla, dried fruits, and spices.
It has a smooth, well-rounded taste with a subtle smokiness and a long, warm finish, making it an excellent choice for sipping or using in refined cocktails.
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Rum Gold Trophy
2021

London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

The Rum & Cachaça Masters - Gold
2022

USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2022, 2021
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024












TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 European Spirits” list until March 24, 2025, 4,427 ratings were recorded, of which 3,324 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.