Ultimate Beverage Challenge
Alcohol competition
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ultimate Beverage Challenge was an American organization that conducted Ultimate Wine Challenge and Ultimate Spirits Challenge until 2023.[1][2] It was based in New York, United States.[3][4]
| Industry | Beverage |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 |
| Founders | F. Paul Pacult David Talbot Sue Woodley |
| Defunct | 2023 |
| Headquarters | , U.S. |
Area served | Worldwide |
| Products | Ultimate Spirits Challenge |
| Website | ultimate-beverage |
History
Ultimate Beverage Challenge was founded in 2009 by F. Paul Pacult, David Talbot, and Sue Woodley.[5] It was first held in 2010.[6]
In 2012, Financial Times called Ultimate Wine Challenge a "highly selective" challenge.[7] In 2021, the competition received entries from 52 countries.[6]
Competitions
Judging process
Eligible products included all categories of spirits; aperitifs; vermouths; fortified wines such as port and sherry; ready-to-drink and pre-mixed cocktails; non-alcoholic mixers and beverages; and hard seltzers. Sample bottles without final packaging or labels, and products without a U.S. importer or distributor, were also accepted.[10]
The judging process was based upon blind tasting in small flights. Entries are evaluated by multiple expert panels over an extended period.[2] All tastings took place at Ultimate Beverage Challenge's facility, designed specifically for product evaluation. Products were scored on a 100-point scale. Detailed tasting notes were provided for products scoring 85 points or higher.[2]
Recipients
Chairman's Trophy
- Slovenia Vodka (2013)[11]
- Remus Repeal Reserve (2018, Bourbon)[12]
- The Glenrothes 25 Year Old (2018, Speyside Single Malt)[13]
Great Value Award
- Mezzacorona[14]
- Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond 7 years Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- Jameson Black Barrel Irish Blended Whiskey
- Appleton Estate Signature Rum
- Fords London Dry Gin