Launched in 2007, the World Drinks Awards is a prestigious competition that selects and celebrates the best products across all major recognized styles of drinks. After years of featuring regional categories like “France, the organization behind the event launched a dedicated standalone competition: The French Drinks Award!
The inaugural event took place on September 26th, during a ceremony at the Villette amphitheater in Paris. A panel of French experts in the industry - including media professionals, distributors, sommeliers, and distillers - gathered to honor spirits ranging from internationally recognized categories like vodka and gin to distinctly French specialties such as Calvados and Armagnac.
While Pastis didn’t receive its own dedicated category, it was included within the broader “Anise”. Each category features four levels of recognition: Diamond (best in category), Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
It’s worth noting that since Pastis is a subcategory of Anise, the Diamond medal can be awarded to another anise-based spirit rather than a Pastis specifically.
Here are all the Pastis that received awards at this inaugural ceremony!
Képi Blanc - Silver
If you ever looked for a more refined Pastis, you probably already know about Maison Ferroni. With its range of vintage pastis, the distillerie from Aubagne has nothing left to prove. And yet, Guillaume Ferroni, head of the house, is always looking to innovate.
Earlier this year, they released a new Pastis: Képi Blanc. And what a story! This pastis is a collaboration between Ferroni and the Foreign Legion, a French Army corps composed exclusively of foreign nationals. Maison Ferroni handles the maceration and distillation, while the Legion harvests the required ingredients for the liquid. Proud of their history, this pastis features two unique ingredients: Mexican tarragon and plants from Cambodia, both associated with two major events in the Legion’s history. The name “Képi Blanc” is also inspired by the traditional white cap hat by the Legion.
They submitted a bottle to the French Drinks Awards ceremony this year in hopes of recognition, and they were right to do so! They won the silver medal, the highest award received by a Pastis this year.
Pastis Martinat - Bronze
The Distillerie des Alpilles was founded earlier this year in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the heart of Provence. Its first pastis, in its full name Pastis Martinat – Le Tranquille, is a reflection of its Provençal origins; its many ingredients include verbena, thyme, savory, mugwort, and many others. It is also very light in sugar, with only 15 grams per liter.
Even though still very new to the scene, Pastis Martinat makes a strong impression, and wins the bronze medal this year!
Pastis Garagaï - Bronze
Also winning the bronze medal this year is Pastis Garagai, from the Distillery Garagai, making all winners this year based in Provence! While the distillery was originally launched in Puyloubier, it is now located in Aix-en-Provence.
Pastis Garagaï is a vintage pastis, which means each bottle is associated with its harvest year, with subtle taste variations reflecting each season.
What’s next
It is exciting that France now has its own Drinks Awards event, celebrating even more pastis and other anise-based spirits made in France. I’m thrilled and will be closely following future editions.
In the meantime, don’t miss the upcoming World Drinks Awards 2026, entries just opened and will feature a whole “Pastis” category!
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