Scotland’s first potato vodka was recently awarded a ‘Double Gold’ medal at one of Asia’s most prestigious spirits competition, the China Wine and Spirits Awards, which attracts entries from across the globe.

Scotland’s first potato vodka was recently awarded a ‘Double Gold’ medal at one of Asia’s most prestigious spirits competition, the China Wine and Spirits Awards, which attracts entries from across the globe.

The CWSA judges are selected from across Hong Kong, China and Taiwan to attend the blind tasting. Selected from the most prominent sommeliers, hoteliers, retailers, importers, and distributors from throughout the region. Together they are responsible for sales of over 50 million bottles of wine and spirits each year across China.

The double gold medal follows on from success at the Paris ‘Cocktail Spirits’ Awards were Arbikie was named ‘Best Vodka’ and its recent inclusion in GQ Magazine’s ‘Best Vodkas in the World’.

Unlike the majority of vodka, which is made with wheat, the Arbikie brand is made from potatoes, giving it a distinctive flavour. The distillery is reviving the traditions of an industry, which took place on the site back in the 18th century. It uses copper pot stills to bring the time-honoured art of Scotch whisky distilling to the production of all its spirits, giving Arbikie Vodka a comparable quality and depth to Scotch.

Slightly sweet, very creamy and exceptionally smooth, Arbikie Vodka is distilled to a very specific level for a unique taste.  It is created using clear Scottish water and a blend of three distinct and flavoursome potatoes, Maris Piper, King Edwards and Cultra.  It means that the vodka is gluten free.

Aimed at the luxury end of the drinks market, Arbikie Vodka is made to enjoy simply with ice, but is also spectacular as the basis for an iconic Martini.

CWSA Judges reported the standard of wines and spirits was the highest ever seen before. Fiona Luo, CWSA Judge said ‘CWSA is THE international award recognised in China. Winners are the highest quality and it is useful for consumers and buyers to see CWSA Medals.’

John Stirling, Director at Arbikie Highland Estate commented:

‘We are extremely proud to be awarded a Double Gold Medal at CWSA 2015.  It is great to see Arbikie Vodka in the same category as some of the most renowned brands in the world. Asia is a key export market for Arbikie and to gain recognition from such an influential panel will be incredibly useful as we look to enter the Asian market.”