When it comes to luxury, the world of fine spirits continues to raise the bar. From cask-aged gin to ultra-premium whiskies, The Luxury Masters 2025 competition showcased the best of craftsmanship, innovation, and flavor.
Held at The Singer Tavern in London, the blind tasting brought together five expert judging panels who assessed some of the most exquisite spirits across categories — from Tequila and vodka to Cognac and Scotch. Despite a challenging year that saw nearly US$1 billion wiped off luxury spirits sales, the event reaffirmed that exceptional quality always finds its audience.
Below are ten standout spirits that earned top honors — bottles that prove luxury doesn’t always have to mean excess, but craftsmanship and character worth savoring.
Renais Grand Cru Cask-Aged Gin
Infused with elegance and French heritage, Renais Gin celebrates its second anniversary with a special edition aged in French oak barrels that once held grand cru wine. The result? A “well-balanced, fresh, and vibrant” liquid with subtle oak undertones. Bottled at 50% ABV and retailing for £90 (US$110), this is luxury bottled beautifully.
Alexandrion 9 Brandy
Romania’s Alexandrion 9 offers a masterclass in refinement. Matured via the solera method and finished in Fetească Neagră wine casks, it bursts with red apple and currant notes. Judges described it as a “flavour bomb in the mouth,” awarding it a Gold medal. Enjoyed best over ice, this 40% ABV brandy makes for a perfect festive indulgence.
Le Tribute Countryside Luxury Gin
Transport yourself to the lavender fields of Spain with Le Tribute’s Countryside Gin. Crafted with black cardamom, lavender, and lemongrass, it delivers a “bright, citrusy, and bold” flavor profile. Retailing for €75 (US$86), it’s summer in a glass — no flight required.
Brother’s Bond Bottled-in-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Co-created by actors Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, this Bourbon proved its worth beyond celebrity hype. Made from a three-grain mash bill and aged to perfection, it impressed judges with its dark sugar and spice notes, earning a Gold medal. Priced at US$60, it’s a bourbon with heart and heritage.
Rémy Martin XO Cognac
A timeless icon, Rémy Martin XO remains a benchmark for luxury Cognac. “Complex and rather good,” said judges, praising its rich raisin and spice notes. At 40% ABV and priced from £180 (US$235), it’s the perfect introduction to fine Cognac and an essential for elegant cocktails.
Indri Founder’s Reserve 11 Years Old Whisky
India continues to make waves in whisky, and Indri’s Founder’s Reserve is a shining example. Matured in ex-Bordeaux red wine casks, it impressed with red fruits and baking spice notes. With 58.5% ABV and a price tag of £325 (US$425), this Gold-medal winner embodies luxury craftsmanship.
Cygnet 77 Cask-Aged Gin
From Wales comes Cygnet 77, a Master medal winner that set the tone for the competition. With “sweet, honeyed aromas” and a silky palate, its maturation in Welsh whisky barrels adds depth and character. Bottled at 44% ABV and priced at £129 (US$172), it’s a perfect cross between gin and whisky artistry.
Król IV Luxury Organic Vodka
Poland’s Król IV stood out as the Taste Master winner for its creamy, smooth finish. Made from organic rye and infused with hemp, it’s a vodka that blends tradition with innovation. Retailing for £149.99 (US$196) in a gift box, it’s a statement of purity and craft.
Pelo del Perro Espadín Mezcal
Crafted by maestro mezcaleros Felipe and Ageo Cortés in Oaxaca, this artisanal mezcal stole the show with smoky, earthy, and citrus flavors. Awarded the Taste Master accolade, it’s bottled at 46% ABV and priced at £60 (US$78) — proof that excellence need not be extravagant.
Ardbeg Vintage Y2K
A nostalgic masterpiece, Ardbeg’s Vintage Y2K is crafted from the distillery’s first spirit of the millennium. With notes of iodine, sea spray, and gentle smoke, judges described it as “superb.” Bottled at 46% ABV and retailing for £670 (US$839), it’s a collector’s dream and a toast to legacy.
Luxury Spirits, Refined for the Modern Palate
The Luxury Masters 2025 proved that even in an uncertain market, true craftsmanship and innovation endure. From bold gins to timeless whiskies, these award-winning spirits redefine indulgence — offering not just flavor, but a story in every sip.
