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Distilled Spirits

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW is thrilled to introduce the Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show, judged for the first time in 2024.

Distillation of spirits aims to achieve purity, resulting in a smooth and clean foundation for most cocktails and flavourful liqueurs. Fermented from either fruit, neutral grains or sugar, each of the various categories brings a unique flavour and a distinct style. Highly influenced by region and culture, distilled spirits are sophisticated and elevate hospitality.

Led by inaugural Chair of Judges Stuart Gregor, the Show is anticipated to bring innovation to the Distilled Spirits industry within Australia.

The Sydney Royal point of difference:

  • All-Australian entries
  • Industry expert benchmarking & feedback
  • Ready to drink (RTD) classes
  • Non-alcoholic spirits class
Late May 2025

Entries Open

Late June 2025

Entries Close

18 - 22 August 2025

Deliveries

8 - 9 September 2025

Judging

16 September 2025

Results Announced

The Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show engages the most experienced and respected Judges in the industry and endorses the development of future judges.

The process is overseen by a Chair of Judges and includes four separate judging panels. Each panel consists of one Panel Chair, two Senior Judges and a minimum of one Associate Judge.

Medals are determined by the Judges using the following 100-point scale:

Gold medal for outstanding Exhibits gaining 90pts and over

Silver medal for excellent Exhibits gaining 82pts but fewer than 90pts

Bronze medal for quality Exhibits gaining 74pts but fewer than 82pts

Champion are determined using the Borda Count Method.

To ensure a consistent high standard of judging, the RAS operates the Sydney Royal Associate Judge Program to train the next generation.

Joining the Sydney Royal Associate Judge Program provides unique opportunities to:

  • Lean how to score exhibits from experienced senior judges
  • Experience first-hand what it takes to judge beer and cider
  • Be exposed to emerging trends and the very best producers have to offer
  • Network with industry experts
  • Build experience toward becoming a qualified judge

Stewards play a valuable role ensuring each judging day runs smoothly through the coordination and preparation of exhibits.

Acting as a Steward for Sydney Royal competitions provides unique insight into a specific industry and counts as relevant experience toward an Associate Judge role in the future.

2024 Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Champion winners

Sydney Royal Competitions encourage and reward excellence, with the aim to support a viable and prosperous future for our agricultural communities.

Please select the Sydney Royal Competition/s you are interested in*

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