Sydney, Australia — 24 April 2025
At the 8th London Spirits Competition, held in London on 25 & 26 March 2025, Lume Gin won a Bronze medal, considered the ultimate seal of approval in the global spirits industry. To achieve this distinction, Lume Gin needed high scores in three categories: Quality, Value, and Packaging.
In contrast to other spirits competitions that often prioritise distilling ability and technical expertise over drinkability, the London Spirits Competition aims to recognise and celebrate the spirits that consumers actually want to buy, whether from a retail store or off a menu at a London restaurant.
What sets the London Spirits Competition apart is its judging process. It goes beyond blind tasting to determine medal winners — judges also evaluate each spirit's label, design, and packaging, assigning a portion of the score based on visual appeal, storytelling effectiveness, and how well the brand's overall presentation aligns with its price point and perceived value for money.
Judging criteria
Winning a London Spirits Competition award requires high scores across all three judging areas. Exceptional quality spirits might not be considered winners if the price and packaging don't resonate with consumers — the competition recognises spirits that excel in both quality and marketability.
A 95-point spirit wouldn't guarantee success if it lacks visual appeal or offers poor value for money. Such a spirit might be well-respected within the industry, but struggle to find buyers on shelves or restaurant menus.
Scoring system
- Quality ScoreOut of 100
- Value ScoreOut of 100
- Package ScoreOut of 100
Each judging category receives a separate weighted score. These are then combined to produce a final score that determines individual awards.
Who are our judges?
The London Spirits Competition is judged by a panel of leading spirits buyers with current commercial buying experience, or spirits consultants and experts directly involved in developing new spirit brands or purchasing spirits for resale. Judges represent a diverse range of channels and disciplines, including multiple retailers, convenience stores, distributors, on-trade groups, casual and fine dining establishments, hospitality, and the travel industry.
"The authority of a London Spirits Competition award comes from the power of being judged across quality, value, and appearance, the high caliber of the judges, and the intensely competitive product set. We are thrilled that our Lume Gin performed so well. This Bronze medal demonstrates that we are creating the types of spirits that bar managers and mixologists want to use, and spirits that drinkers enjoy choosing and consuming."
Cal Paterson, Head Distiller, Lume Gin
About Lume Gin
Founded by Aloke, Jay, Kinjal and Ammit, Lume Gin is a Sydney-based craft distillery redefining premium Australian spirits. With Cal Paterson as Head Distiller, Lume crafts small-batch gins that reflect precision, creativity, and passion. Known for their bold Botanical Gin and award-winning Handcrafted Gin, Lume is a tribute to quality and innovation in every drop.
Contact
Email: hello@lumedistilling.com
Website: www.lumegin.com
About the London Spirits Competition
The London Spirits Competition is unique in its evaluation of spirits based on quality, value, and packaging. The event is organised by Beverage Trade Network, which hosts industry events worldwide.
For more information: www.londonspiritscompetition.com
Congratulations to Lume Gin
Amazing work in such a short period of time