Australian whisky has once again proven its global standing, securing over 100 medals at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards (WWA). From Tasmania to the mainland, the country’s distilleries dominated the competition, solidifying Australia’s reputation as a powerhouse in the whisky industry.
Lark: A Legacy of Excellence
Tasmania’s pioneering whisky brand, Lark, earned five medals, including Gold for Lark 1911 and a Category Winner Gold (CWG) for Symphony No. 1. Lark CEO Sash Sharma expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “This is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence. Symphony No. 1 has now won ‘Best Blended Malt’ for four consecutive years, embodying Tasmania’s unbridled spirit and Lark’s signature style.”
Sullivans Cove: A Multi-Awarded Distillery
Sullivans Cove emerged as another major winner, securing nine medals, including CWG for Old & Rare American Oak Second Fill 18 Years Old. Additionally, the distillery shined at the Icons of Whisky Awards, winning Visitor Attraction Team of the Year, Marketing Team of the Year, Campaign Innovator of the Year, and Sales Team of the Year. Managing Director Adam Sable attributed their success to “amazing people” behind the brand, while Distillery Manager Heather Tillott emphasized the purity and craftsmanship of their whisky.
Hellyers Road and Waubs Harbour Make Their Mark
Hellyers Road, Australia’s most awarded distillery at the WWAs, claimed 11 medals, including CWG for American Oak Cask 22 Years Old, Peat Cask Finish 21 Years Old, and Vintage Triple Cask. CEO Derek Charge called the wins a testament to their legacy and dedication to premium aged whisky.
Waubs Harbour also made waves, winning three medals, including a CWG for Waubs Original. Co-founder Tim Polmear described the recognition as the “Olympics of whisky awards,” reinforcing Tasmania’s influence on the global whisky scene.
Mainland Distilleries Shine
Melbourne-based Starward maintained its winning streak with six medals, including Gold for Two-Fold. Founder David Vitale celebrated Australia’s growing prominence in the whisky industry, stating, “Every year, our presence grows stronger. Australia is the home of the next wave of whisky.”
Casella’s 36 South Double Grain also claimed a CWG. Michael Sargeant, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Casella, highlighted the whisky’s unique approach, blending wheat and barley and aging it in ex-red wine barrels. “This win reinforces the exceptional quality of Australian whisky, capable of rivaling Bourbon and Scotch,” he said.
Australia’s Whisky Future is Bright
With an impressive tally of medals, Australia continues to establish itself as a whisky powerhouse on the world stage. As the industry gains momentum, distillers remain committed to pushing boundaries and crafting world-class spirits that capture the essence of Australian whisky.
Related Topics:
