Distilleries from the Central Coast dominated the fourth-annual statewide competition

The California Craft Spirits Competition is proud to announce the award-winning craft spirits from its fourth-annual blind-tasting event, held June 18 at the California Mid-State Fair.

Best of Show went to KroBar Craft Distillery’s Original Gin (Paso Robles), after winning a Double Gold Medal and the Best Gin award. 

The Best of Class winners were: 

Best Whiskey: Re:Find Bourbon (Paso Robles) 

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Best Vodka: Tin City Distillery Unflavored Vodka (Paso Robles) 

Best Brandy: Bethel Rd Grappa di Primitivo (Templeton) 

Best Rum: KroBar Craft Distillery Navy Strength Rum (Paso Robles) 

Best Liqueur: Calwise Spirits Co. Barrel Reserve Orange Liqueur (Paso Robles) 

Packaging and Design awards:
Gold: Rod and Hammer’s SLO Stills – Distiller’s Reserve Rye Whiskey (San Luis Obispo)
Silver: Alley 6 Craft Distillery – Harvest Gin (Healdsburg)
Bronze: Lloyd Distillery – Bixby Gin (Gonzales) 

“It’s great to see this year’s craft spirits truly showcasing California’s breadth and ability to produce high-quality spirits,” said returning Chief Judge, Tim McDonald, president of Wine & Spirits Spoken Here. “It is evident, in comparison to previous years, how much growth and development the craft spirit movement has gone through in California. I look forward to seeing where it goes next.” 

The competition took place on June 18 at Estrella Hall at the California Mid-State Fair. The panel of judges blind-tasted 55 entries in the different classes of craft spirits, awarding double gold, gold, silver and bronze medals and afterward, the Best of Show was chosen. 

“We are proud to be able to showcase the best of the best in California’s growing craft spirit movement,” said California Mid-State Fair CEO Michael Bradley. “Join us on Sunday, July 21 for the Get Crafty Mixology Contest and Tasting to taste how our local mixologists use these award-winning products.” 

Get Crafty pairs award-winning distillers with mixologists to create a cocktail of their choice. Tickets are on sale now.