The Tasting Panel magazine

May 2016

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RESULTS OF THE 2016 SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION The San Francisco World Spirits Competition's 16th annual judging was held March 17–20 at Hotel Nikko in San Francisco. Out of this year's record- breaking 1,899 entries, only 201 were awarded the prestigious Double Gold medal by the 39-person judging panel. As the most influential spirits competition in the industry, winning a medal in San Francisco is a milestone for any brand. The industry's most respected experts serve as judges, and every entry is blind-tasted under highly focused conditions. There is no better way to discern quality and identify trends. With a 20% increase in entries over the prior year, the 2016 competi- tion has continued its linear growth from 292 entries at the inaugural 2000 competition. Some of the most notable growth this year was seen in gin, with 197 entries (up from 136 in 2015); vodka, with 209 entries (up from 172 in 2015); and in the craft distiller category, with 57 entries (up from 22 in 2015). The competition is also receiving a wider variety of entries from diverse categories and regions. My heartfelt thanks go to Director of Judging Tony Abou-Ganim, Managing Director Nicolette Teo, Communications Manager Dottie Bridge, Business Manager Chloe Turan and Volunteer Coordinator Janine Galligani, as well as to the wonderful team of volunteers who help make the Competition run so smoothly. We are listing the Double Gold, Gold and Silver medal winners here. The Double Gold designation is awarded to the very few entries that receive Gold medal ratings by all members of the judging panel. These are among the finest products in the world. Products awarded a Gold medal are exceptional; they are near the pinnacle of achievement in their particular category. These are products that set the standard for all others of their type. Products awarded a Silver medal are outstanding in their category; they show re finement, finesse and complex- ity. They are among the best examples of their particular category. Suggested retail prices are listed when provided by the entrant. For complete results and a list of this year's distinguished judges, go to sfspiritscomp.com. —Anthony Dias Blue, Executive Director

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