23rd Street Named Australian Distillery of the Year After Highest-Scoring Whisky Win

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South Australian distillery recognised among the world’s best at the 2026 New York International Spirits Competition.

23rd Street Distillery has been named Australian Distillery of the Year at the 2026 New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC), with its Australian Single Malt Whisky receiving Double Gold, 96 points and the highest whisky score of the competition.

The Renmark-based distillery also received Gold and 95 points for Australian Whisky and Gold and 95 points for Violet Gin, reinforcing the strength of its spirits portfolio.

Judged blind by an international panel of industry experts, the 2026 NYISC attracted more than 1,400 entries from 39 countries, making it one of the world’s most respected benchmarking competitions for spirits.

The awards mark a significant back-to-back achievement for the young whisky producer, with 23rd Street receiving Australian Distillery of the Year, Double Gold for its Australian Single Malt Whisky and Gold for its Australian Whisky at both the 2025 and 2026 NYISC awards.

Paul Burnett, Head Distiller at 23rd Street Distillery, said the recognition was a proud moment for the entire team.

“We’re blown away! This recognition is built on beautiful Australian ingredients, hard work and a constant drive to refine what we do, ” said Burnett.

“Our focus on maturing in a variety of oak types and finishing in old fortified barrels brings a depth and complexity that truly defines our whiskies. To be recognised alongside the world’s best is something we don’t take lightly. It’s a real milestone for the brand and a reminder that you can

push boundaries while still keeping exceptional spirits within reach. Time to raise a glass. “

The recognition comes at a pivotal time for the category. Whisky remains Australia’s most popular spirit, with consumers increasingly seeking premium local brands that combine provenance, craftsmanship and value.

Both the Australian Whisky and Single Malt offer exceptional versatility, appealing to a broad spectrum of whisky drinkers. Equally enjoyable sipped neat or over ice, they can serve as an excellent foundation for classic and contemporary whisky cocktails.

Already ranging nationally through Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland and leading independent bottle shops, 23rd Street’s whisky range retails between $72 and $108, delivering internationally recognised quality at an accessible premium price point.

Brian Sheedy, Marketing Manager – VOK Beverages, (23rd Street Distillery,) said the awards provide another compelling reason for retailers to champion Australian whisky.“Whisky remains Australia’s most popular spirit, and as the local distilling industry continues to grow, consumers are looking for Australian brands that offer quality, credibility and value, ” said Sheedy.

“The sub-$100 segment is moving quickly, and 23rd Street is well placed to meet that demand with internationally awarded whisky at an accessible price point. ”

ABOUT 23RD STREET DISTILLERY

23rd Street Distillery’s historic site has stood its ground through the trials and seasons of more than a century, enabling the Australian spirits producers to create bold spirits that are full of flavour.

With a commitment to local produce and flavours that runs deep, the pick of sun-ripened goodness is in easy reach. Surrounded by Australia’s prime citrus-growing country, 23rd Street also supports local farmers and grows their own fruit, enabling naturally zesty citrus to be a major player in their flavour palette.

The melding of time-honoured craft and fearlessly bold flavours is the 23rd Street signature. They artfully distill the unique characters of quality Australian ingredients in every product, bringing moments of spirited magic to the world.