Split Spirits ‘Essential’ Malt Whiskey Wins Gold Medal at Prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition
The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) is considered to be the most prestigious & influential competition in the global spirits industry. Distillers from around the world — from the globally renowned giants to the rising small-batch producers (like us) — showcase their spirits to an esteemed panel of judges in the hopes of earning that coveted stamp of approval. The results of this competition help to set the industry standard for excellence, and a medal at the SFWSC recognizes distilleries who have earned widespread recognition & respect from their peers in the global spirits industry.
At the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, we submitted our Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey in collaboration with Switchback Brewing Co. — learn more about our Essential Spirits Collab With Switchback. Our unique single malt whiskey, made with surplus Switchback Ale that was stranded in kegs at the beginning of the COVID pandemic, has a classic whiskey flavor with malty & vanilla notes that give way to herbaceous, citrusy & floral notes on the finish — we figured of all the fine craft spirits in our lineup, our Essential Whiskey had the best chance to stand up to some of the biggest & best distilleries in the world.
After passing the rigorous judging criteria, Split Spirits’ Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey was awarded a Gold Medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Here’s what the judges had to say:
“This Malt Whiskey opens with an aromatic blend of bright citrus, honey & tropical notes on the nose, giving way to a balanced palate of juicy orange, floral character, a hint of herbaceous funk, oak, and concludes with a sharp, lingering finish that reinforces its bold profile.”
Split Spirits is proud to have been recognized for our dedication to producing fine craft spirits alongside some of the best in the world. The results of the 2025 SFWSC are now live, “celebrating medalists who exemplify quality, craftsmanship, and distinction in the spirits industry.” - The Tasting Alliance.