E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario Rum Named 'Best in Show' at 2026 Favorite Sipping Rum Competition

Burdekin Rum Virgin Cane Spirit wins Best Unaged Rum category

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The 2026 Ultimate Awards – Favorite Sipping Rum Competition, presented in partnership with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), concluded on February 5, 2026 at Total Wine & More South Beach during the Miami Rum Congress. E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario Rum was awarded the Gold Medal and named Best in Show, while Burdekin Rum Virgin Cane Spirit took home the Gold Medal and was named Best Unaged Rum.

Why it matters

The Ultimate Awards Favorite Sipping Rum Competition is a prestigious event that recognizes excellence in premium rum production. The competition's results highlight the top sipping rums from around the world, providing valuable industry recognition and consumer awareness for the winning brands.

The details

The competition evaluated exceptional sipping rums through blind tastings conducted by a distinguished panel of WSET-certified judges and internationally respected guest experts. Entries were assessed on balance, complexity, aroma, flavor, and finish, with top honors awarded to expressions that best exemplified excellence and craftsmanship within their respective categories.

  • The 2026 Ultimate Awards – Favorite Sipping Rum Competition concluded on February 5, 2026.

The players

E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario Rum

The rum that was awarded the Gold Medal and named Best in Show.

Burdekin Rum Virgin Cane Spirit

The rum that was awarded the Gold Medal and named Best Unaged Rum.

Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET)

The prestigious organization that partnered with the Ultimate Awards to present the Favorite Sipping Rum Competition.

Total Wine & More South Beach

The venue where the competition was held during the Miami Rum Congress.

Miami Rum Congress

The official event during which the Ultimate Awards Favorite Sipping Rum Competition took place.

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What they’re saying

“The Ultimate Awards are dedicated to recognizing excellence in premium spirits through blind judging, technical evaluation, and professional tasting standards. The Favorite Sipping Rum Competition highlights rums intended to be enjoyed neat or with minimal dilution, showcasing balance, complexity, and craftsmanship.”

— Federico Hernandez, The Rum Lab (EINPresswire.com)

The takeaway

The Ultimate Awards Favorite Sipping Rum Competition has become a respected industry event that celebrates the art of premium rum production, recognizing the top sipping rums from around the world and providing valuable exposure for the winning brands.