With thousands of entries from around the world at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition in early October, Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa won “Best of Class” for its Pink Peppercorn Gin.

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is one of the largest and most influential spirits competitions in the world. It attracts entries from global spirits distillers. This year’s competition included a record number of entrants, making the accolade for Gervasi Spirits even more remarkable.

The 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition had over 6,000 entries from more than 50 countries. There were hundreds competing in the Gin category.

Pink Peppercorn Gin also received the prestigious double gold medal recognition back in April. Both recognitions highlight the craftmanship and innovation that define Gervasi Vineyard’s award-winning distillery.

According to the San Francisco World Spirits Competition website, “DOUBLE GOLD & GOLD (are) Awarded to the entries that receive a Gold medal rating by all members of the judging panel; these are among the finest products in the world. Out of thousands of entries over the course of the year, only a small percentage are awarded Double Gold.” 

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is known for its rigorous judging process, with medals awarded only to the most outstanding spirits. Winning the “Best of Class” award places Gervasi Spirits among the top tier of global producers, underscoring its role as a leading craft distillery.

The Gervasi Distillery Team

The Gervasi Distillery team, head distiller Shae Pridemore and assistant distiller Michael Phillips, attended the Top Shelf Gala in San Francisco honoring the exceptional leaders shaping the spirits industry. The Gala celebrated excellence with “Best of Class” and “Best in Show” awards from The Tasting Alliance competitions.

“Participating in the competition was very educational and inspiring,” Shae said. “There are masterclasses held on a wide range of subject leading up to the awards ceremony. You have some of the largest distilleries there with a multitude of brands represented. There are smaller distilleries like us as well. Each and every one works hard every day to craft their own unique product they hope will bring home awards.”

Top Awards Presented by Top Industry Professionals

The awards are presented by some of the top people in the industry in one of the most beautiful ballrooms in San Francisco. Each of the top five nominees up for “Best of Class” for each product type are presented during the event. Shae and Michael were listening for Gervasi Spirits to be called.

Shae said, “After a suspenseful pause we heard Gervasi Spirits for Pink Peppercorn Gin. It was a rush of emotions. Having worked so hard for so long carefully adding or taking away each botanical ever so delicately to create the exact flavor and sensation we were looking for. To have all that hard work rewarded on such a high level truly makes for an emotional experience.”

He added that competitions such as this one are important for both the distiller and the customer for a variety of reasons.

“It is fantastic from a distillery standpoint to see all that hard work and dedication rewarded. But more importantly it helps to guide the consumer on what products really stand apart from the others. There are a lot of choices out there for spirit enthusiasts or casual drinkers, so to have an award from such a prestigious competition really speaks for itself.  Gervasi has always strived to be the best in everything we do. Whether it’s in the spirits and wine, or the hotel and restaurants. We hold ourselves to a higher level, and it shows in the products as well as experiences we deliver to customers.”

Shae also added that Ohio as a whole brought home quite a few medals from various competitions this year and feels it shows that Ohio is becoming a destination for spirits lovers of all kinds to come out and explore.

That along with the new Ohio Distillery Trail is bringing a new and rewarding way to try your favorite local distilleries and discover a few new ones along the way!

Gervasi’s Pink Peppercorn Gin Stands Apart

Gervasi Spirits’ Pink Peppercorn Gin stands out from others because of its unique blend of botanicals, combining the bold, aromatic notes of pink peppercorns with a smooth and refreshing gin base. Pink Peppercorn Gin was inspired by a cocktail Shae had that was heavily infused with peppercorn.

Shae wanted to create a product that consumers would not only enjoy the taste of but could also feel. With the floral of the peppercorn, Pridemore added a hint of lavender to incorporate a light summery feel with a slight hint of heat. The infusion of anise wraps a hint of sweetness while cardamom gives the spirit a cooling sensation to the tongue on the finish.The result is a distinctive flavor profile that delighted the competition’s expert judges, who recognized its innovation and excellence.

“This award is a testament to our commitment to quality and creativity in crafting exceptional spirits,” said Scott Swaldo, CEO at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa. “We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition and proud of the team that brought Pink Peppercorn Gin to life. It’s a reflection of our passion for producing spirits that are as unique as the experiences we offer at Gervasi Vineyard.”

Gervasi Vineyard has long been known for its distinctive wines and gourmet dining experiences. Plus, its distillery continues to enhance its reputation as a destination for world-class spirits. The Pink Peppercorn Gin, now recognized on the global stage, joins Gervasi’s growing portfolio of premium products that reflect the brand’s dedication to quality and innovation.

Guests have an exclusive invitation to visit Gervasi Vineyard and celebrate this exciting achievement and experience the award-winning Pink Peppercorn Gin at The Still House, where visitors can enjoy a range of spirits, craft cocktails and distillery tours.