Islay Rum Barrel Ages Wins Gold at the International Wine & Spirits Awards 2025

Islay Rum is proud to announce that its Islay Rum Barrel Aged has been awarded a prestigious Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) 2025, earning 96 points from the expert judging panel.

This latest accolade adds to an already impressive medal collection for Islay Rum Barrel Aged, including a Silver Medal at the World Rum Awards and a Silver Medal at the London Spirits Competition, cementing The Islay Rum Company’s reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative names in the premium rum space.

Bridging the bold traditions of Caribbean-style rum with the unmistakable smoky influence of Islay’s legendary heavily peated whisky casks, Islay Rum Barrel Aged continues to capture the imagination of judges and drinkers alike.

IWSC Expert Judging Panel 
Tasting Notes:


Elegantly fragrant, revealing delicate fruit aromas and hints of baking spice.

The palate unfolds with subtle peat, charred banana, and a whisper of bonfire smoke.

Beautifully balanced, with integrated oak and a lingering finish of olive oil and vanilla.

Captivating!

Ben Inglis, Head Distiller, expressed his pride in the win:

“This project was about more than just finishing rum in whisky barrels — it was about creating a genuine conversation between the two spirits. We wanted the rum to carry the richness and warmth of molasses, while letting the peated Islay casks bring in their signature coastal smoke and complexity. We’re thrilled the IWSC judges felt the same magic we taste every time we open a bottle.”

Andrew Crook, Company Director, added:

“For us, this gold medal is a huge milestone. We’ve always believed that rum deserves the same reverence and craftsmanship that whisky enjoys here on Islay. This award, along with our other recent medals, validates our experimentation, risk-taking, and a shared vision to put Islay on the global rum map. We couldn’t be prouder of our team.”

The Islay Rum Barrel Aged is available in select markets and online, with limited annual releases due to the rarity of the casks used. Whisky lovers, rum aficionados, and curious explorers alike are invited to experience this unique spirit that blurs the lines between two celebrated worlds.