Raising a Glass to Rum: IWSC Bronze Medal Winners 2025

An IWSC Bronze: A Hard-Won Mark of Quality

An IWSC Bronze medal is not easily won. It is a clear marker of excellence, signifying a product that delivers consistent quality along with an enjoyable, approachable drinking experience. For consumers, it serves as a reliable indicator of authenticity and care in production.

At the IWSC, Bronze medals are awarded only to spirits that meet a strict standard. They are not handed out for basic competency but are given to spirits that have demonstrated notable merit and strong appeal.

Highlights from the 2025 Bronze Medal Winners

The 2025 IWSC welcomed rum entries from 47 countries, reflecting the growing international breadth of the category. While there were strong showings from the traditional Caribbean and from Mauritius, this year saw notable entries from Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Thailand.

Examples of Bronze medal winners from countries where we see fewer entries include African Spiced Rum, Kakira Sugar Limited from Uganda; Gayuma Rum, Diageo from the Philippines; and Single Barrel Cherry Rum, Hai Seas Distillery from China.

Among the highest-scoring Bronze medal winners, those awarded 89 points came from 12 different countries. England emerged as a leader, with eight entries achieving this score.

Spiced and flavoured rums were particularly successful this year. Judge Tom Brady observed, “There's no doubt about it, spiced rum is getting better.” Jimmy Harris added, “Coffee is making a huge stamp, and flavoured rums are more infused than just flavoured.”

England proved to be a rich source of spiced and flavoured rums, with 12 Bronze medals including Coffee Rum, The Salford Rum Company and two fruit-flavoured rums from the Fortitude Spirits Group, including Hawkesbill Mango Peel Caribbean Spiced Rum.

Agricole and sugar cane rums also impressed the judging panel. These entries were praised for exceeding expectations, with their structure, clarity and terroir-driven character standing out. Matias Luciani described them as “exceptionally good,” and Adamo Varbaro gave similar praise.

The top-scoring Agricole/Cane Sugar Rum with a Bronze medal is St. Nicholas Abbey Single Cask 8 YO Rum, Abbey Holdings Inc from Barbados, which was described as “Fragrant with vanilla, almonds, and creamy mocha notes."

Opportunities for Growth and Emerging Trends

This year’s entries and winners align with two clear market directions: the continued rise of spiced and flavoured rum, and growing interest in ultra-premium expressions.

Flavoured and infused rums represent a fast-developing category with significant potential. Global demand continues to grow, especially among younger drinkers who are discovering rum for the first time. The IWSC judges noted a noticeable uplift in quality, particularly among producers using natural ingredients and more refined flavour techniques.

Ultra-premium rums are also gaining traction. These expressions represent the skill and complexity of traditional rum making, while allowing producers to showcase regional identity and high-end craftsmanship. As more consumers look for spirits with authenticity and depth, ultra-premium rums are being discovered by those who typically enjoy whisky or Cognac. Many of these drinkers see premium rum as a high-value alternative with the same complexity at a more accessible price point.

Another area of opportunity lies in the example set by Agricole and sugar cane rums. These styles, with their focus on terroir, purity and distinctive flavour profiles, offer inspiration to molasses-based rum producers. By adopting similar approaches, these producers could elevate their offerings and better connect with evolving consumer preferences and judging criteria at future IWSC events.

In Summary

IWSC Bronze medals remain an important measure of success. They indicate strong quality, increasing potential, and a readiness to engage with the evolving global spirits market. For buyers, producers and distributors alike, these medals highlight rums that deserve a closer look and greater recognition.

A full table of 2025 Bronze medal rums appears below. For the full IWSC results, please visit our website.