What’s happening?
Nil Desperandum Rum won at the 2025 Royal Queensland Awards (RQA) Distilled Spirits Competition, supported by King Street. Its standout release, The Vintner’s Barrel, was crowned Grand Champion Distilled Spirit, claiming the title of Australia’s best. The distillery took home a total of four champion trophies, solidifying its place at the top of the country’s premium spirits scene.
Why it matters
The win positions Nil Desperandum Rum among Australia’s elite producers and showcases the strength of Queensland-based distilling on a national platform. It signals the ability of Queensland distilleries to lead in both innovation and quality. The RQA continues to provide an important benchmark for the nation’s distillers.
Local Impact
The awards also shine a light on Queensland agriculture. Nil Desperandum’s production relies entirely on Queensland sugarcane and molasses, supporting local growers and millers. Founder Matt Hobson said the national recognition affirms the quality of what the team has built.
“To have industry experts judge that our rum is just as incredible as we think it is — we’re absolutely thrilled.”
By the numbers:
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4 champion titles won by Nil Desperandum Rum
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116 entries submitted to the 2025 RQA
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36 distilleries from across Australia participated
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Judging took place over 2 days by a panel of 7 expert judges
Zoom In
The Vintner’s Barrel distinguishes itself through a traditional and terroir-driven process. The rum is wild fermented, sub-tropically barrel aged, and made using Queensland-grown ingredients. Its certified organic status marks a rare level of production commitment, setting it apart in a competitive field.
Zoom Out
Chief Judge Dave Withers praised both the winning spirit and the overall calibre of the competition.
“The Vintner’s Barrel is an excellent expression of rum, showcasing a seamless integration of nose and palate.”
“The quality of entries was fantastic especially those that took out the champion trophies.”
Withers led a team that included six additional industry judges, who evaluated entries over two days. Their assessment reinforced the growing sophistication and creativity in Australian craft spirits.
What to look for next?
With the RQA Distilled Spirits Competition now in its second year, interest from distilleries nationwide is expected to increase. Nil Desperandum’s success raises the bar for future entrants, as Queensland’s distilling industry continues to earn national recognition.
