The Spirits Guide Awards - 2026 Distillery Awards

WINNERS | Distillery Categories

Distillery categories celebrate the highest scoring distilleries overall in The Spirits Guide Awards 2026.
Including: New Spirits Distillery of the Year 2026 and New Spirits Distillery of the Year 2026

The Distillery categories are proudly sponsored by Glencairn Crystal -

DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR 2026

Awarded to the distillery whose spirits range (3 or more entries across 2 or more spirit types (e.g. Gin and Vodka)) has achieved the highest average score in the blind tasting categories. The Winner receives the coveted Glencairn Glass 'Distillery of the Year 2026' Trophy.

WINNER

Elemental Distillers - New Zealand | WEBSITE

Gold Award: Roots Marlborough Dry Gin (Traditional Gin)
Best in New Zealand 2026: Roots Marlborough Dry Gin
Gold Award: Roots Rosso Pinot Noir Gin (Flavoured Gin)
Silver Award: Roots Light Marlborough Spirit (No/Low Alcohol)

Special Mention:

Downton Distillery - England | WEBSITE
- Gold Award: Great Bustard Autumnal Gin (Flavoured Gin)
- Best in England 2026: Great Bustard Autumnal Gin
- Silver Award: Downton Distillery Nocino (Liqueur)
- Bronze Award: Downton Distillery Pommeau (Liqueur)

NEW DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR 2026

Awarded to the new distillery (launched within 18 months of the Awards entry closing date) whose spirits range (2 or more entries across 2 or more spirits types (e.g. Gin and Vodka) achieved the highest average score in the Blind Tasting categories. The Winner receives the coveted Glencairn Glass 'New Distillery of the Year 2026' Trophy.