JT Meleck Named 2020 Best of Class Vodka

We are pleased to announce that our Handcrafted Louisiana Rice Vodka has received the American Distilling Institute’s 2020 Best of Class – Vodka award! The American Distilling Institute (ADI) is the oldest and largest trade association dedicated to craft distilling in the world. Since 2007, ADI has recognized craft distillers and blenders that produce the finest quality artisan spirits. A “Best of Class” designation is awarded to a spirit identified by the ADI panel of judges as being the best example of its particular spirit class, such as Best Whiskey, Best Brandy, Best Vodka, etc.

JT Meleck Handcrafted Rice Vodka, winner of the 2020 Best of Class Vodka award.

Spirits entered into the competition are judged by 45 top experts in the field over the course of three days. Judging days are divided into morning and afternoon sessions; during each session, flights are organized into lighter spirits, which include clear spirits with lighter aromas and tastes and heavier spirits, which include oak-matured, flavored, spiced, smoked, and hopped or sweetened spirits. Each flight is blind judged by a panel of at least four judges and generally consists of experts including distillers, wholesalers, importers, and bartenders which represent a wide variety of different background experience in the industry and allows ADI to provide the best possible feedback to entrants.

The American Distilling Institute seeks to run a professional and rigorous judging process. To this end, ADI has developed strict protocols to ensure a successful competition. Judges provide feedback regarding the best qualities of each spirit and how each can be improved. Once all spirits for a particular class have been judged, the "Best of Class" designation is awarded to both a US and an International spirit in each class. Before a spirit can be eligible for a "Best of Class" award, it must first be awarded both a gold or double-gold medal and must be recognized as a "Best of Category" spirit.

Have you ever considered being a spirits judge? Pick up a bottle of JT Meleck and judge our spirit for yourself today. Leave us feedback and let us know how we’re doing!