Yorkshire whisky distillery named as one of the Top 50 spirits producers in the world

The team at a North Yorkshire whisky distillery is celebrating after being named one of the top 50 spirits producers in the world.

Hunmanby Single Estate, single malt whisky distillery, Spirit of Yorkshire, was awarded the accolade by the IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition) on account of its consistent quality, excellence and success in the last three competitions.

Commenting on the Top 50 results, Christelle Guibert, CEO of Fine Wine & Spirits, the parent company of the IWSC, said: “The IWSC Top 50 Producers celebrates the outstanding achievements of the most consistent and high-performing producers across wine and spirits. The initiative was inspired by a desire to spotlight those who demonstrate excellence across their portfolio — not just through one standout product. By analysing results across all categories and global competitions, the Top 50 recognises the people and passion behind the bottles.

“These producers distinguish themselves through their commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity. Many are pioneers driving new trends in production, sustainability, and style, while others continue to uphold generations of craftsmanship with remarkable consistency. Whether a boutique producer or an international name, each has impressed the IWSC’s expert judges with exceptional quality and a strong, unmistakable identity.”

Spirit of Yorkshire whisky director, Joe Clark, said: “For our family-run, Single Estate distillery, farming our barley from field to bottle right here on the Yorkshire coast, this is a great achievement, especially given we’ve only been producing whisky for nine years and are competing with distilleries that have been producing whisky for centuries.

“We’ve earned many significant medals and awards over the years, but the IWSC Top 50 award is different. It very clearly places Spirit Of Yorkshire among the world's very best distilleries and distilling companies. The IWSC began in 1969 and carries immense prestige, and this is a monumental, team-wide achievement we will absolutely celebrate.”

Filey Bay whiskies have won 14 IWSC awards over the last three years, including gold for Flagship, STR Finish and Moscatel Finish, plus silver for Sherry Cask Reserve, IPA Finish, Peated Finish and Yorkshire Day. In 2024, Spirit of Yorkshire was the most awarded English distillery.

Other producers in the Top 50 list include Glenfiddich, Glenmorangie, Diageo and Bacardi.

Spirit of Yorkshire is one of only a handful of distilleries worldwide that use 100% homegrown, regeneratively farmed barley to produce its single malt whisky.