The Best Brandy In The World 2015
Have you ever wondered what the best brandy in the world tastes like? If you have—or even if you haven't—you can now find out by drinking Jaime I by Bodegas Torres. It was recently declared "Best Brandy in the World" at the World Drinks Awards 2015, held in London in March.
The World Drinks Awards have been running since 2007, judged by esteemed individuals from the food and drinks industry. The brandy category is divided into two awards: one for best packaging design and one for the best-tasting spirit. You’ll be pleased to know that Jaime I won the latter—after all, you can’t drink the bottle!
This brandy also gained recognition across the Atlantic at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, winning a double gold in the "Best Spanish Brandy" category. This is the highest accolade available, as it requires all judges to reach a unanimous decision. That’s quite the achievement, considering the competition’s volume and quality.
The Torres name has been associated with brandy for more than three centuries, dating back to when the family planted their first vines in Penedès. Since its founding in 1870, Bodegas Torres has successfully combined tradition and innovation, aiming to lead the premium wine and brandy sector while maintaining the utmost respect for the environment. This family tradition has been scrupulously preserved, passed down from father to son.
Torres owns 2,432 hectares of vineyards—2,000 in Spain, 400 in Chile, and 32 in California. The company employs more than 1,300 people, and Torres wines can be found in over 150 countries worldwide.
Jaime I is a homage to the visionary work of Gaudí and the winery’s founder, Don Jaime Torres, celebrating his innovative spirit and dedication to craftsmanship. The brandy undergoes double distillation in a copper still using the traditional Charentais method before aging in the solera system—similar to methods used for rums like Atlantico and Ron Zacapa.
The result is a rich and flavourful brandy with notes of sweet raisin molasses and added spices. Vanilla, caramel, and a prominent oak influence dominate the finish, accompanied by lingering raisin.