Global gin icon joins 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards
05 May 2025
Leading one of the world’s most iconic brands and transforming its distillery into a zero-waste operation, Dr Anne Brock has redefined gin on a global scale.
A PhD chemist from Oxford University and a 2023 Gin Hall of Fame inductee, she leads the global production of Bombay Sapphire - her signature even appears on the back of every bottle, a mark of trust and craftsmanship recognised worldwide.
As a powerhouse in global spirits, Dr Brock now brings her unique fusion of scientific expertise, innovation and industry leadership to the esteemed judging panel of the 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards.
“I’ve always loved the craft and creativity behind distilling, and judging at the Awards is a wonderful way to celebrate that,” she said.
“It’s such a brilliant opportunity to connect with other people who are just as passionate about spirits as I am and to recognise the hard work, skill and innovation that goes into every bottle.”
Dr Anne Brock and the Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards
The Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards is regarded as a benchmark of excellence, showcasing the best local and international producers.
Dr Brock’s presence underscores the event’s growing global significance - the 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards will elevate its global standing by accepting international entries for the first time.
With 17 major trophies and 31 category awards, including the newly introduced Champion International Distiller, the event will celebrate the finest spirits from both boutique and large-scale distillers.
Dr Brock said winning an Award is powerful recognition more than just an accolade.
“It lifts team morale and can open doors for the brand,” she said.
“My distillers are so proud of the work they do, and any recognition for what happens behind the scenes at the distillery means the world to them.”
Dr Brock’s said her background in science helps her bring structure and critical thinking to the judging process.
“Even with all that scientific training, judging ultimately comes down to trusting your senses - your nose and palate do the real work detecting nuance, balance and character,” she said.
Looking ahead to the 2025 entries, she predicts a return to classic styles of gin, alongside uniquely Australian expressions.
“Call me biased, but Bombay Sapphire is a great example of a classic style,” she jokes.
“That said, Australia always brings its own twist - local botanicals, a strong sense of place, and incredible biodiversity. There’s also growing attention to sustainability, so it will be interesting to see how that’s shaping production choices.”
Why enter the 2025 Australian International Spirits Awards?
Melbourne Royal Food and Beverage Awards Senior Manager Kirrily Waldhorn said the Awards remain a symbol of trust and excellence.
“Winning an Award is considered a hallmark of quality, assuring consumers and trade that a spirit has been rigorously evaluated by Melbourne Royal’s most esteemed judging panel,” she said.
“By extending our invitation to international distillers, we are creating a truly global platform for recognising and celebrating the world’s finest spirits.”
About the Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards
The Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards is a prestigious global
competition recognising excellence in distilling. Formerly the Australian Distilled Spirits
Awards, it welcomes international entries for the first time in 2025 and features 17
major trophies and 31 category awards, including Champion International Distiller.