Kavalan Makes History as First Double Champion at Tokyo Whisky Competition
Taiwan’s Kavalan Distillery made history at the 2025 Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition by becoming the first brand to win two Best of the Best Single Malt awards in the same year. This unprecedented result stemmed from the judges’ inability to choose between two exceptional entries, leading to a shared top honor for the first time in the competition’s history.
The organizers announced this groundbreaking decision after the final judging round, emphasizing that it was the first time in TWSC history that the Best of the Best award was shared by two whiskies. The winning expressions were Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and the brand’s new release, Kavalan Lán. Judges praised Solist PX for its silky deep finish and umami layers, while Lán was celebrated for its captivating aroma blending caramelized nuts, honey, and temple incense.
Solist PX reclaimed its title after first winning in 2023. This cask-strength whisky (50-59.9% ABV) is known for its rich notes of raisins, fig jam, and toffee sweetness. Lán, at 43% ABV, is the distillery’s first release named after its origin, with the name reflecting Kavalan, its connection to Yilan County, and the Chinese word for orchid. Its packaging incorporates calligraphy and orchid motifs to showcase Asian aesthetics.
Beyond the dual championship, Kavalan also swept seven super gold and 11 gold medals, setting a new record for the distillery. This year’s TWSC attracted around 639 spirits from 30 countries, judged by 213 preliminary and 41 final judges. King Car Group Chairman Mr. YT Lee highlighted the significance of the Japanese market for whisky appreciation, noting that receiving this unprecedented shared honor in Tokyo was especially meaningful.
Founded in 2005, Kavalan Distillery uses snowmelt water and Taiwan’s humid climate to create its distinctive whisky style. The Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition, one of Asia’s largest, gathers judges from Japan’s bartending, manufacturing, importing, and certified expert communities. This year’s results further solidify Taiwan’s standing in the global whisky industry.
2025-08-07
Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/kavalan-makes-history-at-tokyo-whisky-competition/