Why 23rd Street Distillery Should Be on Every Whisky Lover's Travel List
23rd Street Distillery has been crowned Australian Distillery of the Year at the 2026 New York International Spirits Competition after its Australian Single Malt Whisky achieved the highest whisky score of the competition, earning Double Gold
""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."
South Australia's 23rd Street Distillery has once again cemented its place among the country's leading whisky producers, being named Australian Distillery of the Year at the 2026 New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC) after its Australian Single Malt Whisky achieved the highest whisky score of the competition.
The Renmark distillery's Australian Single Malt Whisky was awarded Double Gold and an outstanding 96 points, while its Australian Whisky collected Gold and 95 points. The distillery's Violet Gin also earned Gold with 95 points, highlighting the breadth and quality of its spirits portfolio. Judged blind by an international panel of industry professionals, the NYISC attracted more than 1,400 entries from 39 countries in 2026, making it one of the world's most respected spirits competitions.
The latest accolades continue an impressive run for the South Australian producer. After claiming Australian Distillery of the Year and Double Gold for its Australian Single Malt Whisky in 2025, 23rd Street has successfully defended its title for a second consecutive year.
Paul Burnett, Head Distiller at 23rd Street Distillery, said the recognition reflected the dedication of 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. "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 awards arrive at a time when Australian whisky continues to gain momentum both locally and internationally. Demand for premium Australian-made spirits has grown steadily as consumers increasingly seek whiskies that combine provenance, craftsmanship and value.
Already available nationally through major retailers including Dan Murphy's, BWS, Liquorland and independent bottle shops, 23rd Street's whisky range retails between $72 and $108, positioning it as an accessible premium offering for both newcomers and experienced whisky drinkers.
The range is equally suited to sipping neat, serving over ice or as the foundation for classic whisky cocktails. Brian Sheedy, Marketing Manager at VOK Beverages, said the latest success further demonstrates the strength of Australian whisky on the world stage. "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.
"The sub-$100 segment is moving quickly, and 23rd Street is well placed to meet that demand with internationally recognised whisky that consistently over-delivers."
The back-to-back honours reinforce 23rd Street Distillery's growing reputation as one of Australia's leading whisky producers, proving that world-class whisky can be crafted in regional South Australia while remaining accessible to everyday consumers.
