Ballantine’s, the world’s No 2 scotch whisky, is celebrating a double victory after scooping two gold medals in the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), one of the most respected competitions in the global drinks industry.

The innovative brand won gold for its Ballantine’s Finest and Ballantine’s Limited expressions, reinforcing its reputation for excellence across the range. The judges praised Ballantine’s Finest for its “wide spectrum of aromatics, covering citrus, dried fruits, honey, spice, toast and rich malt” and its “light character, yet packed with complexity”.

Ballantine’s Limited was described as having “a complex array of flavours, led by rich malt, ripe grape, apricot and fruit cake.” The judges also commented on its “beautiful texture” and “long complex finish”.

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director for Ballantine’s, comments: “As the no. 1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the world’s no. 2 Scotch whisky, it is naturally very important to us that we deliver consistent outstanding quality across the Ballantine’s range so to receive this recognition from the IWSC judges is a great honour for us all. I would like to thank our Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, and his team at the distillery as it is in no small part thanks to their expert skill and dedication that Ballantine’s continues to win these industry awards, year after year.”

Ballantine’s is one of the most consistently and highly awarded whisky brands in the world, winning over 120 trophies and medals in international drinks competitions over the past 10 years.