Manila: Filipino brand Tanduay continued to reinforce its standing among the world's leading makers of premium rums as two of its products were awarded gold medals at the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards in Chicago, USA. Tanduay Double Rum and Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years both scored 95 points to earn the much-coveted honors in the contest that evaluates spirits based on how they perform in real-world hospitality settings.
According to Philippines News Agency, 'The awards Tanduay has received throughout the years show that Philippine rums can truly compete with the world's best,' Roy Kristoffer Sumang, Tanduay International Business Development manager, said in a statement. 'And what makes our latest wins at the Bartender Spirits Awards even more special is that it was judged by a panel composed exclusively of bartenders and hospitality professionals. These are the people who know what spirits truly shine from shelf to glass.'
Tanduay Double Rum is made from a blend of rums aged 16 and five years, which are then combined in ex-bourbon barrels for another two years. The aging process contributes to the award-winning rum's harmony of flavors. The 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards tasting notes said Tanduay Double Rum's 'aromas of honeysuckle, marzipan, and nutmeg lead to a palate of toasted toffee and cacao, culminating in a soft, long, and very pleasant finish.'
Another internationally recognized product, Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years, is a bold blend of rums aged in oak barrels for a decade. It is an overproof rum with a 50.5 percent alcohol by volume. The awards tasting notes said the product's 'aromas of honey, dried fruit, and spice' lead to a "smooth, approachable palate with evolving candied fruit notes and a balanced, lingering finish.'
Scores are awarded to spirits based on their mixability or how well they are blended or combined in cocktails; balance and versatility or their flavor and aroma; and taste, mouthfeel, and finish. They are also judged on their packaging, creative design, label quality, label details, back-bar appeal and functionality (including shape, size, weight, and ease of pouring), as well as their value or how they are priced and what value they offer.
The Bartender Spirits Awards is focused on identifying products that perform successfully in the US on-premise market, helping bars, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality venues discover spirits with strong commercial potential. The competition is judged exclusively by professionals actively working in the hospitality sector. Winning spirits are recognized not only for quality but also for their practical value in real-world beverage programs.
'These international awards reflect Tanduay's commitment to Filipino craftsmanship and innovation, and they inspire us to continue showcasing the best of the Philippines on the global stage,' Sumang said.
