Gin Guild members win big at the ISC Awards 2025

At the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) Awards 2025 held at One Great George Street, London, Hernö Gin secured the prestigious title of Gin Producer of the Year for the second consecutive year. This accolade underscores Hernö’s consistent excellence across its entire portfolio, with the distillery having amassed 60 medals since its inception in 2014.

Founder and Master Distiller Jon Hillgren expressed his elation:

“To be named Gin Producer of the Year for the second year in a row is truly remarkable. We are equally proud of the Trophy awarded to Hernö én Gin, a collaboration that pushed creative boundaries and resulted in something truly special.”

The collaborative creation with renowned chef Björn Frantzén, Hernö én Gin, also received a Trophy, the highest distinction given to an individual product.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the ISC is one of the world’s most respected competitions for spirits, with thousands of entries from over 70 countries judged by an expert panel, including Gin Panel chair, Joanne Moore from G&J Distillers.

Meanwhile, De Kuyper Royal Distillers was recognised for its excellence in innovation and product development. The Dutch distillery’s commitment to quality and creativity was acknowledged with awards in the Innovation and Product Launches categories at the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards.

Double Gold Medal for London Dry Gin

Also winning big again was Spanish Gin Guild member Vánagandr Destilerías SL, led by distiller Enrique Pena, who secured a prestigious Double Gold Medal for their London Dry Gin. Pena, who founded the distillery with a vision to create a gin of uncompromising quality, has built a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

His award-winning London Dry has been praised for its balance, depth of flavour, and authenticity – qualities that continue to resonate with judges on the international stage. This latest accolade not only reinforces Vánagandr’s standing among Spain’s finest gin producers, but also highlights the distillery’s growing influence within the global spirits community.

Also winning big again was Spanish Gin Guild member who won a prestigious Double Gold Medal for their .

Ockju is a rising star

Highlighting the next generation of talent in the spirits industry, Ockju Lee from Thames Distillers was awarded the Rising Star Award.

This honour recognises a young individual who has demonstrated exceptional skill and promise within the field of distillation and production of spirits.

Accepting her award Ockjus said:

I am honoured to receive the Rising Star of the Year award at the International Spirits Challenge. This recognition feels even more meaningful as it was chosen by my peers in the industry. Thank you to everyone in the spirits community for your constant support and guidance

We look forward to welcoming Ockju officially to the Guild on 17th October.

These achievements underline the dynamic and evolving landscape of the global spirits industry, with Hernö Gin, De Kuyper, Vanagandr and rising talent Ockju Lee leading the way in their respective areas. Congratulations to them all!

There were also trophy wins for Roku Gin in the Distilled gin category and Hai Seas Distillery for the Crazy Eight barrel aged gin.

Roku’s Craft 47% Gin clinched the prestigious Distilled Gin Trophy. This accolade underscores Roku’s exceptional quality and craftsmanship, distinguishing it as a standout in the global gin category. The judges highlighted Roku’s harmonious blend of traditional and Japanese botanicals, celebrating its balanced profile and refined character.