Rok 2026

In 2026, the town of Stará Ľubovňa and the village of Hniezdne once again became a meeting point for experts, producers, and enthusiasts of high-quality spirits. The 4th edition of the international Carpathian Quality competition, organised by the Spiš Association in cooperation with the Slovak Order of Knights of Distillates (Slovenský Rád rytierov destilátov SK, o. z.), brought together commercial distilleries, small-scale fruit distilleries, fruit growers, and spirits producers from Slovakia and abroad.
The fourth edition recorded the highest number of entries in the competition’s history. An international tasting jury evaluated a total of 992 spirit samples, representing a significant increase compared to the previous year, when 794 samples were entered. Of the total number, 148 samples came from commercial distilleries, while 844 were submitted by small-scale fruit distilleries and individual growers.
The professional evaluation was carried out by 53 expert tasters, who formed the international tasting jury. Each sample underwent a blind tasting, during which the judges assessed the characteristics of the spirits without knowing their producer or brand. Particular emphasis was placed on production quality, purity, aroma, taste, balance, and overall impression.
As in previous years, the competition was divided into two main groups. The first consisted of spirits produced by small-scale fruit distilleries and private individuals, while the second featured products from commercial distilleries. This division made it possible to compare the results of traditional fruit distillation with professional commercial production and recognise the finest spirits in their respective categories.
The title of Champion in the Commercial Distilleries Category for 2026 was awarded to Duranzia Plum Spirit from Pálenica Bučkovi.
In the category of small-scale fruit distilleries and private individuals, the champion title went to Plum Brandy produced by Marek Blesák from Leopoldov, which achieved the highest score in a highly competitive field.
One of the competition’s most significant awards, Best of Carpathian Quality, was presented to Cornelian Cherry Spirit from Castle Distillery.
The prestigious Carpathian Quality Trophy went to Slovenia, where it was awarded to Tomato London Dry Gin produced by HEAVEN and HELL.
Other outstanding products were also recognised in their respective categories, including Sour Cherry Spirit from Lechmann, Whisky from Nestville Distillery, and Raspberry Spirit from Plynroz. The results once again highlighted the diversity of the competing spirits and the high standards achieved by individual producers.
With each successive edition, Carpathian Quality continues to strengthen its position among leading professional spirits competitions. The record-breaking 992 entries and 53 expert tasters demonstrate the growing interest among producers, fruit growers, and industry professionals in objective quality assessment and the international comparison of spirits.
The competition also provides a valuable platform for connecting traditional distillation methods with modern production techniques, exchanging knowledge and experience, and showcasing the craftsmanship of those behind each spirit. Every submitted sample represents the dedication and expertise of its producer or grower, from selecting the finest raw materials to processing and creating the final product.
The organisers would like to express their sincere gratitude to all participating producers, small-scale fruit distilleries, fruit growers, expert tasters, and partners who contributed to the success of the fourth edition. Congratulations go to all award winners, along with recognition for everyone who presented their products for evaluation by the international expert jury.
Carpathian Quality 2026 once again brought together tradition, expertise, experience, and quality, creating a unique platform to showcase the very best of the world of spirits.
Follow our website and social media channels for the latest news and updates on the landmark 5th anniversary edition of Carpathian Quality 2027.