At the Australian International Vodka Awards (AIVA), judging is about more than just preference — it’s about precision, integrity, and respect for the craft. Every entry is blind-tasted and assessed by a panel of experienced professionals to ensure that the results reflect true excellence.
We don’t believe in handing out medals for the sake of it. But when a vodka earns one — it truly deserves it.
At the Australian International Vodka Awards (AIVA), we uphold the highest standards of evaluation to ensure that every medal awarded represents genuine excellence in vodka craftsmanship.
All entries are judged in a controlled, unbiased environment through a blind tasting process, supported by a scoring system that balances both objectivity and expert sensory assessment.
Our judging panel is made up of experienced industry professionals, including:
Each product is judged blind — meaning the judges do not know the brand, producer, or country of origin during the tasting. This ensures complete impartiality and fairness.
Before any scores are assigned, each vodka is assessed in the context of its category — from unflavoured to flavoured to overproof — to ensure fairness.
Each entry is then evaluated across four key areas:
Scoring is out of 100 points. Judges work independently during the initial round, then confer to determine consensus for top-tier entries.
Judges are chosen for their experience, industry reputation, and ability to evaluate without bias. All tastings are blind. All discussions are confidential. And all scores are earned — not given.
We’re not here to gatekeep based on personal taste. We’re here to celebrate vodka as a craft — and ensure that what’s awarded reflects what consumers and connoisseurs expect from the best in the world.
Trophies are awarded to the highest scoring vodka in each major category — but only if the product has earned Gold or higher. These are the pinnacle submissions of the entire competition.
Awarded to vodkas that receive a Gold rating from every judge on the panel — a rare and unanimous endorsement.
Exceptional vodkas that set the benchmark for their category. Balanced, complex, and memorable.
Vodkas that demonstrate finesse, refinement, and clear technical quality.
Well-crafted vodkas that are sound examples of their category and commercially ready.
Trophies are awarded to the highest scoring vodka in each major category — but only if the product has earned Gold or higher. These are the pinnacle submissions of the entire competition.
Whether you’re a vodka producer looking for global recognition, a brand seeking industry credibility, or an innovator redefining what vodka can be — this is your moment. Enter your vodka entries now.
