From over 5,500 entries, 70 judges in a blind-tasting competition recently awarded Gervasi Spirits’ Pink Peppercorn Gin with a Double Gold Medal. This remarkable achievement underscores Gervasi’s brand dedication to excellence and innovation in the spirits industry.
Being awarded a gold medal is outstanding in any competition. The Double Gold Medal awarded by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) — the most influential and respected global spirits competition — is even more prestigious.
The Double Gold Medal means that all 70 judges gave Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa (GV) a gold medal for the Pink Peppercorn Gin. Only a small percentage of entries in the sought-after competition earn the double gold designation.
A medal from The Tasting Alliance has become a recognized affirmation of high quality and one of the most reliable and universal indications of spirits excellence. Medal winners represent some of the finest products from around the world.
“We are absolutely thrilled and honored to receive the Double Gold Medal for Gervasi Spirits Pink Peppercorn Gin at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO and General Manager for Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, who continuously strive to create unparalleled spirits of the highest caliber.”
Pink Peppercorn Gin for the Win
Pink Peppercorn Gin was inspired by GV’s head distiller Pridemore who wanted to create a product that consumers would enjoy the taste of and actually feel. With the floral of the peppercorn, Pridemore added a hint of lavender to incorporate a sense of summer with a slight taste of heat. The infusion of anise wraps in a bit of sweetness while cardamom gives the spirit a cooling sensation to the tongue on the finish.
“Pink Peppercorn Gin can be misleadingly smooth, especially when it sits at a bottle proof of 110,” said Pridemore. “This is a product that I am extremely proud of and passionate about. It is a humbling experience to be honored with a Double Gold Medal in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. I would not have been able to achieve such a unique product without the help from my assistant distiller, Michael Phillips, my amazing wife Katie, and our two great kids Kennedy and Oliver.”
Visitors to Gervasi this summer can try the award-winning gin in a special cocktail called Peppercorn Gin Daisy. The amazing cocktail has Pink Peppercorn Gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and soda water. Guests can try the cocktail at The Still House and then purchase a bottle of the Pink Peppercorn Gin to take home to make cocktails for their guests.
Gervasi’s Distillery and Head Distiller
Gervasi began developing and producing spirits in 2019 as a commitment to Gervasi guests to craft exceptional spirits of uncompromising quality and taste. With an unwavering dedication to innovation, excellence and taste, Gervasi Spirits has received acclaim from spirits enthusiasts alike, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.
GV’s state-of-the-art distillery inside The Still House is designed for an annual capacity of 25,000 bottles. Each spirit crafted at Gervasi is a labor of love, from sourcing the finest ingredients to the careful distilling process. Every bottle of its bourbon, vodka, gin, or rum, every bottle reflects the passion and expertise of the distillery team. In addition to the Double Gold Medal, Gervasi Spirits was awarded Silver Medals for its Maple Cask Bourbon, Wine Barrel Bourbon, and Blu Liqueur.
“I could not be prouder of the Distillery team including our Head Distiller, Shae,” said Swaldo. “This award is a true testament that Gervasi upholds our continuing promise to provide exceptional products for our guests.”
From Gervasi’s artisanal approach to distillation to its use of the finest ingredients, Gervasi Spirits continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of spirits.
Pridemore joined GV’s team in 2020 after working as the Head Brewer, Distiller, and Cider Vintner for a Cincinnati-based brewery where he honed in on his craft for the love of producing craft beverages.
Pridemore said his love for craft beverages started at a young age after watching his uncle create beer and wine. Pridemore was inspired to begin with home kits at the age of 16. He went on to earn several homebrew awards. Seven years later at 25, Pridemore decided to follow his passion and retired as a gymnastics coach to become a distiller.
“Joining the Gervasi team has been the best decision in my life,” said Pridemore. “The organization has helped push me and have given me the necessary tools to take my distilling career to the next level. Everything we do at Gervasi is elevated to deliver a world-class experience to our guests and visitors.”
About the San Franciso Global Competition
Founded in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition is the oldest and largest competition of its kind. Medal winners range from some of the most renowned international distillers to small-batch producers that the competition has helped put on the map.
The SFWSC medal is a testament to the distiller’s hard work and is a universally recognized indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. In 2022, the competition cemented its position as the largest spirits competition in the world with nearly 5,000 entries.
The Tasting Alliance Competitions are considered the most influential and have elevated the reputation of thousands of brands and represent the ultimate curator for the world’s best wine, beer, and spirits.
Receiving a medal from the organization is a critical next step for any producer to earn recognition in the industry.
Celebrating Gervasi
Enjoying global award-winning spirits at Gervasi is just another way to celebrate life while visiting Gervasi. From award-winning wines to award-winning spirits, gourmet dining, and amazing overnight accommodations, GV has it all for you to enjoy and celebrate life.
