Communicator of the Year

The continuing expansion of fine and rare drams in the spirits category reflects Asia's enduring love a air with scotch, whisky and gin.

BEST DRY GIN

V2C Dutch Classic Gin

Netherlands

This handcrafted dry gin features fresh juniper, orange, liquorice, laurel and St John's Wort, subtly spiced with coriander, cardamom, lemon and ginger. Smooth solo or feature as the body of a complex cocktail.

BEST LONDON DRY GIN

Patient Wolf Summer Thyme Gin

Australia

Dry gin with medium intensity and complexity. Initial juniper and lemon citrus palate leads into fresh herb and a balanced peppery nish. Smooth, soft, warm mouthfeel with silky oils provides a slight, rounded viscosity when served neat. Wellbalanced nish with extended aftertaste.

BEST GRAPE BRANDY

Oude Molen VOV Cape Brandy

South Africa

Sherry wood and walnut nose complemented by subtle hints of apricot, vanilla and tropical fruit. Palate is full and fruity, with overtones of spice and nuttiness. The nish is soft, characterful and long-lasting.

BEST RUM

Le Rhum Agricole XO Par Neisson

Martinique, France

Mahogany in colour, the nose gives hints of nuts, such as almond and hazelnut. Pastry-like on the palate, it is round and sweet with woody, pepper spices. Citrus, woody mouth feel is always present. Very long nish and a superb nale.

BEST LIQUEUR

Gi ard Creme de MenthePastille White Liqueur

France

Nice peppermint aromas, emanating with a fresh, spicy breath. Refreshing, balanced mouthfeel. Peppermint invades the palate imparting an extreme sensation of freshness.

BEST SHOCHU

Yatsushiroshiranuigura Hakusui Kome

Japan

Shirakawa Sugen's spring water contains abundant calcium, which enhances aroma and balances shochu's sodium and potassium. The stimulation of alcohol runs from the centre of the tongue to the throat. Umami and fragrance pass comfort from the back of the tongue to the nose.