Spirits & Wine Award Winners, Top Scoring Products, Beverage Industry Trends and Best Wine and Spirits Lists

While new to most American spirits lovers, Baijiu is the most consumed spirit worldwide. It is an ancient Chinese liquor made by wild fermenting grains such as sorghum and rice. The production methods have remained largely unchanged since the Song Dynasty. Alcohol ranges are wide, with some coming in at 25% ABV while others top the charts at nearly 60% ABV. The flavors are downright funky, at times putrid, and alltogether foreign for most western palates. Traditionally taken as small shots alongside strong umami based dishes, swirling and sipping the spirit is a unique experience. Those brave enough to dig into this richly layered category will be rewarded with challenging, yet enchanting flavors. Here are our top 8 scorers of 2018. 

Although the same grape variety, Pinot Gris is a more aromatic incarnation of its more popular twin, Pinot Grigio. Known for its refreshing minerality and expressive fruit and floral characteristics, it makes a wine that is well suited for pairing with intricate meals just as much as casual drinking on its own. While it is best known from colder European regions like Alsace and Germany, the 2018 Chairman's Trophy winner, Balletto Vineyards Pinot Gris, comes from the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, California. This United States wine scored an impressive 95 Points.

Once the standard issue gin for British navy officers, Plymouth gin is as popular as ever. The 200 years of heritage that back up this authentic recipe and crisp, clean flavor have earned it a Chairman's Trophy with 96 Points. At $32.99 per bottle, it also received a Great Value award, as well as a Tried & True Award for its unwavering consistency.