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25 June, 2026
Fettercairn Vanguard 1st Release wins Gold at prestigious IWSC tasting awards
The IWSC (International Wine and Spirit Competition) is one of the world’s oldest and most respected competitions, often referred to as the “Olympics of the drinks industry".
All entries are tasted double-blind, with samples poured behind screens to ensure complete anonymity, with all gold medal winners re-tasted by the Judging Committee to ensure only the best of the best are awarded the top prizes.
Following this rigorous process, Fettercairn Vanguard 1st Release was awarded 95 points and the top prize of a gold.
This unique small-batch release began its journey in ex-bourbon barrels, developing for 14 years before a finishing period in hybrid casks composed of American oak staves and robust, toasted Scottish oak heads.
The Scottish oak used was sourced from naturally wind-felled Highland trees and crafted in partnership with the Speyside Cooperage. The result is an exceptional whisky that balances Fettercairn’s signature tropical notes with subtle, warming wood spice.
