A DISTILLER in south Warwickshire is celebrating its biggest international success to date.
Shakespeare Distillery’s Jester Rum Cask Strength Sherry Expression was crowned World’s Best at the prestigious World Rum Awards 2026.
Following last year’s Bronze Medal success, the Stratford-based distillery has gone one step further, with its latest limited-edition release progressing through every stage of the competition to claim the highest accolade in its category.
Crafted from scratch using the distillery’s award-winning Jester White Rum, the expression has spent five years maturing in carefully selected ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks before being bottled at natural cask strength. The result is a rich and complex British rum showcasing exceptional depth of flavour and character.
The World Rum Awards are among the most respected global accolades in the spirits industry, judged by an expert panel that assembles some of the world’s leading rum authorities.
Distillery director Simon Picken said: “Having our rum recognised by our peers on the world stage is a huge testament to the dedication and skill of our distillery team. To be named World’s Best among entries from across the globe is an achievement we’re immensely proud of and one that reflects the passion, patience and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle we produce.”
The Jester name takes its inspiration from Shakespeare’s numerous iconic Fools – bold, playful and often scene-stealing.
