We were mighty bummed when we didn’t get a chance to skip down to San Francisco and attend the SF International Wine Competition or  Spirits Competition this year. It’s a chance to try the best the world has to offer up in our industry, and we imagine it to be a bit like a grown up version of FAO Schwarz for booze lovers.

But we missed it. Then, about a month ago, we got an email from Tasting Panel Magazine saying that they were taking the Double Gold winners on the road, and would be in Seattle. Needless to say, we were there last week at Vessel, glass in hand and salivating, ready to try the winners.

While all the winners weren’t represented, there was a smattering of liquor selections from almost every group. (The one notable exception was whiskey, not a drop to be found!) We tasted them all, but these were the ones that stood out:

Wembley Gin – Romania (12$) This gin was interesting mostly because it’s a Romanian vodka, something we have never seen before. It’s sweeter than a traditional London Dry style, although not as sweet as an Old Tom, and it’s got a heavier mouthfeel. At a very reasonable price point, we weren’t surprised that it made the list, even if we were surprised at its classification. For gin drinkers who find themselves between Tom and London, give this one a try.

There were a lot of tequilas. Perhaps that is a reflection of the popularity of tequila up here in the Northwest, or perhaps there was just a great showing this year.  Corrido Reposasdo ($35) was our favorite, hands down. Smooth, spicy, and the only tequila we know of that is double-barrel aged, this one should be on your short list.  (For a full breakdown of the new Corrido line of tequilas, click here.)

Also in the line up: Seattle Mariner Edgar Martinez’s spirit, called El Zacatecano Anejo Mezcal ($42). We were surprised to find that it took best Meszcal in the Competition, as it doesn’t have the smokey, burnt rubber characteristics that is typical of Mezcal. Nevertheless, it was a tasty Mezcal, even if it tastes more like a tequila. For those who haven’t tried Mezcal, this one is a great introduction to an otherwise unforgiving spirit!

Ron Abuelo had an amazing showing (the only rums) at this event, with a total of three: 7 year, 12 year, and Anejo, respectively. Our pick? The Ron Abuelo 7 year ($24).  The 7 year was well-balanced with the perfect amount of oak, just a hint of spice. And at such a reasonable price point, if you need to choose a sipping rim for your shelf, we highly recommend this one.

And finally, we found the Pere Magloire Calvados VSOP ($40) to lovely and very deserving of its acclaim. At a very reasonable price point, it’s tastier, more apple-y than its more expensive counterpart, the Pere Magloire Calvados XO ($75) . A good Calvados is an essential bottle to have for those who want a fully stocked bar, and this one is rich and flavor yet not syrupy or alcohol heavy.

Many thanks to both Vessel and Tasting Panel Magazine for this amazing event!

For a full listing of winners, visit www.sfspiritscomp.com. For the wine winners, visit www.sfwinecomp.com.