Australian owned and distilled vodka, LongLeaf Tea Vodka has been named best tea vodka in the world and best flavoured vodka in Asia Pacific region at the 2014 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The annual competition attracted over 1,474 entries across 63 countries this year, with LongLeaf Tea Vodka rating higher than similar offerings from global brands such as Absolut and Belvedere in respective categories.
The vodka, which launched in Sydney in 2013, is distilled in NSW Hunter Valley region using certified organic vodka, pure Australian rainwater and handpicked tea leaves.
LongLeaf was created by Sydney resident Ram Krish, who was inspired by his Sri Lankan roots to create the tea infused spirit. Krish says that his family has been growing tea for three generations, and that the creation of LongLeaf came from his desire to combine a premium spirit with the intricate character of Ceylon tea.
“It feels amazing for a brand as young as ours to be recognised on a global platform at the largest spirits awards in the world, by some of the most respected connoisseurs in the industry," said Krish.
"LongLeaf was born out of my desire to create a premium drink with an everyday flavour reflective of both the intricate character of world-renowned Ceylon tea and the unparalleled spirit of Australia. It evokes nostalgia, celebrates life’s little joys and encourages consumers to take pause and relax – just like your everyday cuppa,” he said.