As the global spirits market continues to evolve, innovation has become a defining force behind brand success. Today’s consumers are more selective than ever, seeking out products that offer not only quality, but something new - whether that’s a fresh perspective on a classic category or an entirely original expression.

To recognize this wave of innovation, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and San Francisco Ready-to-Drink Competition are proud to introduce the Best New Spirits Awards. These awards are designed to spotlight the most exciting new entries across the industry - products that are not only recently launched, but that meaningfully advance their category.

Eligibility is intentionally focused on true innovation. Products qualify if they have been released within the past 48 months or represent a new expression or formulation from an existing brand. This ensures that entries reflect genuine development, not simply updated packaging or minor extensions of an existing line. Products that are relabeled, reformatted without substantive change, or have been on the market longer than 48 months are not eligible for consideration.

As with all SFWSC honors, winners are determined through blind judging by a panel of industry experts. To earn a Best New Spirits Award, a product must not only be the top performer in its category - it must also achieve a score of 96 points or higher. This threshold ensures that recognition is reserved for products that demonstrate exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. If no entry meets this standard within a category, the award will not be given.

The Best New Spirits Awards reflect a broader commitment to highlighting the future of the industry. As brands continue to push boundaries and consumers continue to explore with intention, these awards provide a platform for the products shaping what’s next. For producers introducing new releases, this is an opportunity to earn recognition that signals both quality and innovation on a global stage.