Ivan Dixon: The calibration process is almost always organic

The IWSC judges are the industry's most influential voices. From Master Distillers to Senior Buyers, from Masters of Wine and Head Sommeliers to Bar Directors, these leaders guide the world's top drinks establishments. Our Insider series offers exclusive insights from the experts themselves.

With over 17 years of experience as an IWSC judge, Ivan Dixon shares insights into the crucial process of palate calibration and panel dynamics.

The Calibration Challenge
"From experience some categories judged within the IWSC require more panel calibration than others," Dixon explains. "Interpretation of a product or flight can differ markedly due to individual flavour profile or style association."

Expert Panel Selection
IWSC's approach to this challenge is methodical. "Via curating bespoke panels of experts, selected from different fields within the drinks industry, the IWSC is a market leader in ensuring that products entered are recognised and awarded accordingly."

The Power of Discussion
Communication plays a vital role in the process. "Group discussion is paramount when score discrepancies arise, giving all judges the opportunity to re-taste and exchange opinion on what has been presented in the glass. Category chair judges are always on-hand to offer additional expertise and direction regarding split panel scores, giving each product the best possible chance of success within the competition."

Setting the Benchmark
"Generally warm-up samples are provided, which effectively set the tone for the proceeding sample flights," Dixon notes. "This provides judges with a benchmark, reference point and chance to calibrate ahead of the forthcoming flights."

Team Dynamics
The success of calibration relies heavily on panel cooperation. "Regarding calibration beyond this, it's imperative for the panel to discuss products at any given opportunity, remain open-minded and to work as a team to award all products accordingly." As Dixon concludes, "Given the overall format of IWSC judging, and the quality of palates assembled, the calibration process is almost always organic."

Ivan Dixon is a Spirits Consultant and IWSC Judge. With over 17 years of judging experience and former positions as Head of Spirits at both Harvey Nichols and Enotria&Coe, he brings extensive commercial and spirits expertise to the panel through his consultancy, Circular Squared Drinks.