Taiwan’s Kavalan Distillery made history at the 2025 Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition, becoming the first brand to receive two “Best of the Best Single Malt” awards in a single year.
The unusual result occurred when judges could not decide between two expressions, creating the competition’s first-ever tie for its top honor.
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The Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition announced the unprecedented decision after its final judging round. Competition organizers stated: “Due to a tie, this category has two winners. This marks the first time in TWSC history that the ‘Best of the Best’ title has been awarded to two whiskies.”
Kavalan Solist PX and Kavalan Lán Share Top Honors
The two winning whiskies were Kavalan Solist PX Sherry Cask and Kavalan Lán, a new expression from the distillery.
Judges praised the Solist PX for its “silky and profound finish with umami depth,” while describing Lán as having notes of “caramelised nuts, honey, and temple incense” that create a “deep and intriguing aroma.”
The Solist PX expression marks its second “Best of the Best” win at TWSC, having previously won the award in 2023. The cask-strength whisky ranges from 50 to 59.9% ABV and features what judges describe as rich raisins, fig jam, and toffee sweetness.
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Lán, bottled at 43% ABV, represents the distillery’s first whisky named after its home region. The name carries multiple meanings, standing for “Kavalan,” paying homage to Yilan, and representing the orchid in Mandarin. The packaging features calligraphy and orchid motifs reflecting Asian aesthetics.
Kavalan Sets Additional Records at Competition
Beyond the dual top award, Kavalan established a new record for the distillery with seven superior gold and 11 gold medals across various categories.
The TWSC drew 639 spirit entries from approximately 30 countries, with 213 judges participating in the first round and 41 in the final round.
King Car Group Chairman Mr. YT Lee acknowledged the significance of the Japanese market for whisky. “Japan is where connoisseurs appreciate complexity, depth, and character. To win the first ever tied ‘Best of the Best’ in Tokyo is an extraordinary honour. We are thrilled to have our craftsmanship recognised on such a grand stage,” Lee said.
The Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition stands as one of Asia’s largest spirits competitions and the only one in Japan. The competition draws judges from across Japan’s whisky industry, including bartenders, manufacturers, importers, and certified whisky connoisseurs.
Kavalan Distillery has been producing single malt whisky in Taiwan’s Yilan County since 2005. The distillery sources water from Snow Mountain and ages its whisky in Taiwan’s humid climate, which the company says creates its signature character.
