Lighter alcohol drinks
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The IWSC is proud to champion the world's best drinks.
Recent years have seen the IWSC diversify from an awards body focused solely on wine and spirits, to one encompassing the increasing variety of drinks available to consumers.
Largest awards for lighter alcohol drinks
In 2023, the IWSC saw a 30% growth in the number of entries into our Lighter Alcohol awards. This growth reflects the broader shift in society towards more responsible and balanced alcohol consumption. Our judges have been greatly impressed by the innovation in the Lighter Alcohol entries we have received, it is clear that consumers are now more confident with their understanding of ABV strength and brands are delivering on their lighter alcohol promise.
Mixer add-on awards
Sponsored by Franklin & Sons, we created our Mixer Awards to crown the world's best spirits and mixer pairings. If you are submitting a lighter-alcohol alternative spirit to our judging, you can also enter our Mixer Awards.
The judges will be selecting the best Lighter-Alcohol Gin & Tonic, Lighter-Alcohol Vodka & Tonic,Lighter-Alcohol Rum & Tonic,Lighter-Alcohol Whisky Highball,Lighter-Alcohol Agave & Tonic, and NEW to 2024 -Lighter-Alcohol Paloma (lighter-alcohol tequila & grapefruit soda), Lighter-Alcohol Rum & Cola and Lighter-Alcohol Whisky & Ginger Ale.
"It is also great to see that producers are finding a great balance between lightness and complexity, which can often come with smaller amounts of alcohol. I think this is an area to watch, with a lot more innovative drinks coming to the market."
Claire Warner, IWSC Judging Committee
