Australian distillers dominated the spirits categories at the 28th Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA) in Sydney.

First held in 1994, the ALIAs is hosted by leading drinks industry publications TheShout, Australian Hotelier, BARS&clubs and National Liquor News.

The expert panel of 50 industry judges voted up Cape Byron Distillery and Four Pillars for major awards that were contested by brewers, winemakers and global spirits brands.

Cape Byron claimed Best New Product for its Cape Byron The Original Australian Single Malt Whisky, while Four Pillars was named Best Liquor Brand.

Archie Rose Distilling Co was runner up for both of these major awards, also claiming the prize for Best Australian Distillery.

Local distillers further claimed four out of a possible seven off-premise awards for spirits, in addition to several other commendations.

Australian Distillers Association CEO Paul McLeay said it was an unprecedented showing for local spirits at the drinks industry’s benchmark awards.

“It was a proud night for our distillers, whose awards stretched across the full gamut of light and dark spirits, liqueurs, RTDs and innovation,” he said.

“This demonstrates the continued market penetration of Australian spirits, which are clearly resonating with trade and consumers alike.

“On behalf of the ADA, I congratulate all the successful distillers.”

Australian spirits honoured at ALIA 2023:

BEST LIGHT SPIRIT

Winner Never Never Triple Juniper Gin

Highly Commended Archie Rose Straight Dry Gin

BEST LUXURY DARK SPIRIT

Winner Archie Rose Single Malt

Highly Commended Lark Classic Cask Single Malt Australian Whisky

BEST LUXURY LIGHT SPIRIT

Winner Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin

Highly Commended Archie Rose Signature Dry Gin, Hickson Road Harbour Strength Gin

BEST LIQUEUR

Winner Aperol

Winner Sheep Dog

Highly Commended Mr Black

BEST DARK RTD/RTS

Winner Starward (New) Old Fashioned

Highly Commended Jack Daniels Double Jack

BEST LIGHT RTD/RTS

Winner -196

Highly Commended Brookvale Union

BEST AUSTRALIAN DISTILLERY

Winner Archie Rose Distilling Co.

Highly Commended Four Pillars

BEST NEW PRODUCT

Winner Cape Byron The Original Australian Single Malt Whisky

Highly Commended Archie Rose Fundamentals

BEST LIQUOR BRAND

Winner Four Pillars

Highly Commended Archie Rose Distilling Co.

BEST ON-PREMISE SPIRIT

Winner 1800 Tequila

Highly Commended Never Never Triple Juniper Gin