Jamaica has once again reaffirmed its dominance in the global rum arena, as two of its iconic distilleries—Worthy Park Estate and Monymusk (National Rums of Jamaica)—secured top accolades at the 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), one of the most prestigious global stages for alcoholic beverages.
Worthy Park 109: A Pot Still Masterpiece
Often referred to as the “soul of the Caribbean,” rum has undergone a remarkable transformation from its fiery 17th-century origins to a globally celebrated spirit admired for its craftsmanship and complexity. This year’s IWSC results further cement the Caribbean—and Jamaica in particular—as a powerhouse in rum production and innovation.
Out of hundreds of entries from around the world, only six rums earned the IWSC’s highest honour: the Gold Outstanding medal, awarded exclusively to spirits that achieve a score between 98 and 100 points. Remarkably, two of these six hailed from Jamaica, showcasing the island’s unmatched ability to balance tradition with excellence.
Distilled in the heart of St. Catherine, Worthy Park 109 impressed the IWSC judges with its bold, high-proof profile crafted entirely from pot stills. Aged for three years in ex-bourbon barrels, this robust rum delivers a rich, full-bodied taste with a deep connection to Jamaica’s rum heritage.
Judges praised its “intensely expressive nose, full-bodied character, and complex, lingering finish.”
Produced by National Rums of Jamaica, Monymusk’s Classic Gold Rum took home similar praise. Created using a column still, this golden spirit offers smooth vanilla, toffee, and tropical fruit notes—reflecting both refinement and innovation.
The judges applauded its balance and smoothness, showcasing Jamaican rum-making at its finest.
These dual wins not only highlight Jamaica’s depth of talent and technique in rum production but also reinforce the Caribbean’s central role in the spirit’s global story. As the IWSC results affirm, the Caribbean is not only where rum began—it’s where it continues to thrive, evolve, and inspire.
