Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards go international for the first time
08 Apr 2025 / Spirits, Melbourne Royal News
The Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards, already a symbol of excellence in Australian distilling, is set to elevate its status globally in 2025.
With the introduction of international entries, the awards will become a key indicator of quality for spirits enthusiasts and industry professionals worldwide.
Distillers worldwide will have a historic opportunity in 2025 as the Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards welcomes international submissions for the first time.
This expansion solidifies the Awards' position as a premier benchmarking event, offering both boutique and large-scale operations a global stage to demonstrate their exceptional spirits.
With 17 major trophies and 31 category trophies, including the coveted Champion Australian Distiller and the newly introduced Champion International Distiller, the Awards recognise and reward the best in the industry.
Melbourne Royal meticulously crafted the 2025 Awards to reflect the pulse of the global spirits scene, introducing changes that resonate with both connoisseurs and creators.
The 2025 awards feature new categories, including 'Unflavoured Vodka' for technical purity, 'Best Non-Alcoholic Spirit' for innovative flavours, 'Best Ready to Serve' for premium convenience, and 'Gypsy Distiller' to champion emerging talent, showcasing the evolving landscape of the spirits industry.
The 2024 Awards witnessed an impressive turnout, attracting over 880 entries from more than 225 distilleries across Australia, highlighting the Awards’ growing recognition.
Melbourne Royal Food and Beverage Awards Senior Manager Kirrily Waldhorn said winning an Award is considered as a hallmark of quality, assuring consumers and trade that a spirit has been rigorously evaluated by Australia’s most esteemed judging panel.
“The Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards have long been a symbol of quality and excellence in the Australian distilling industry,” she said.
“By extending our invitation to international distillers, we are creating a truly global platform for recognising and celebrating the world’s finest spirits.”
For more information on how to enter or to secure tickets for the 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards Trophy Presentation Dinner, visit here.
Key Dates:
Entries Open: 8 April 2025
Entries Close: 16 May 2025
Awards Presentation Tickets on Sale: 8 April 2025
Judging: 1-3 July 2025
Awards Presentation: 10 July 2025