SOCraft is a Singapore-based independent awards body that spotlights those pushing the frontiers of the global craft spirits industry. It is also the first awards body that includes “sustainability footprint” as a core judging criterion.

Through a well-regarded panel of experts and enthusiasts from Asia's vibrant bar community, the awards serve as an Asian-centric lens, providing craft spirit makers with an immediate gateway to the region’s thriving bar industry.

In its second year now, SOCraft judges will be evaluating craft spirits based on aroma and bouquet, mouth-feel, taste, finish, overall impression and sustainability footprint. Out of a total 120 points, Aroma and Bouquet, Mouthfeel, Taste, Finish and Overall Impression carry 20 points each.

For sustainability efforts, (5 points each) the categories are Choice of Production Materials, Waste Management, Emission Management and Support for Local Community.

The SOCraft Festival that follows the judging is a fun-filled week for experts and enthusiasts to discover the world of craft spirits. The festival serves as a consumer fronting arm to drive greater awareness for the winning craft spirits. It encompasses signature cocktails, tasting sessions and master classes.

Star walk

Earning a 3-star rating means the product is a world-class creme de la creme spirit, scoring in the top 5%. A 2-star rating is given to an excellent spirit scoring over 90 quality points.

The single star defines a superior spirit scoring over 80 quality points; and a Green Ring is awarded to a sustainable spirit scoring over 15 Green Points. Last year’s (2024) winners were:

1 Star: Maya Pistola Agavepura Anejo

2 Stars: Stranger & Sons Gin, Maya Pistola Agavepura Reposado, Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin and Maya Pistola Agavepura Joven.

3 Stars: Isle of Raasay Single Malt, Scotland. Launceston Distillery Single Malt Tawny Cask Matured, Australia.

Entry criteria

SOCraft Awards are open to craft spirit distillers from any part of the world, provided the distillers are already marketing themselves as such. The craft spirit distillers must be majority independently owned, and producing no more than 750,000 gallons annually. Each competing product must be accompanied by a non-refundable entry fee of Singapore $ 380.

While the deadline for Early Birds submissions ended on 15^th February, normal submissions close on 31^st March. By 1^st April, all shipments of craft spirit bottles for judging must be complete. The jury sits in Singapore in May this year, with the official announcement of results slated for 1^st June.

For more details, visit https://www.spiritofcraftawards.com/contact-1.