In the ADI International Spirits Competition, Wohlfert’s TAIL PIPE Is Awarded Double Gold and Best of Category
May 28, 2026 (Snohomish, WA) — The American Distilling Institute (ADI) annually hosts one of the most competitive spirits challenges, attracting over 1000 entrants globally. It is one hotly contested competition, and only the best rise to the top. The ADI International Craft Spirits Competition is widely regarded as one of the premier blind-judged competitions for craft distillers.
John Wohlfert, distiller and owner of Wohlfert Craft Distilling, was thrilled to receive the news that, for the second time in four years, his small distillery has taken Best of Category Honors in two different categories. “This is incredibly meaningful for us. Of the many flavored vodkas available, it is great to be distinguished as the top flavored vodka producer internationally,” said John. “To have a new product like TAIL PIPE recognized at this level—and to follow up our earlier success with TORQUE for the Best Bottled & Blended Fruit Liqueur, and our CLUTCH coffee liqueur as the best in the USA. You may notice a pattern here; In a culture increasingly driven by experiential dining, craft mixology, and elevated social gatherings, Wohlfert Craft Distilling is carving out a unique identity by creating spirits designed not only to be tasted but also talked about – reinforcng what we’re building here: bold, distinctive spirits that stand out in a crowded field.”
A unique feature of the prestigious ADI International Spirits Competition is the feedback distillers get from judges and, in the case of 2026 Best of Category Flavored Vodka, TAIL PIPE, judges were effusive:
“94 points. Well-defined jalapeno nose. Green, fresh, and invigorating. Chili here is delicate and well-managed. The underlying vodka is mellow and carries the flavor well; alcohol is integrated.”
“95 points. Pronounced Jalapeno and green peppers. Ample flavor intensity, creamy, and well-structured. Controlled jalapeno spice. Well balanced.”
While often remembered for the rise of speakeasies and the illicit alcohol trade, the Prohibition era significantly impacted the whole country’s drinking habits and social customs. The time also saw a rise in creative cocktails. Karen Wohlfert, John’s wife, celebrates recipes handed down from her great-grandpa, who perfected a specialty cocktail of his own, mixing rich coffee flavors to make the prohibited liquor more drinkable. He called it “A Spider,” – “Dark with a helluva bite.”
The Wohlferts shifted gears on the old family recipe to honor their 100-year heritage when they crafted Wohlfert CLUTCH Coffee Liqueur. All the memories are still dark and tantalizing, but with a delicious taste that lingers. John added a touch of TAIL PIPE Jalapeno vodka to the mix for the bite… “I think Grandpa would have loved it. We even tried it with the TORQUE Apple Liqueur for a spicy apple “Spider” cocktail.”
Helluva Cocktail (Spider)
1 oz CLUTCH Coffee Liqueur
1 oz TAIL PIPE Jalapeño Vodka
3 oz Espresso (Regular or Decaf)
Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
Ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)
Cayenne sugar mix (for rimming the glass, optional)
Check out our website for recipes. Wohlfert is a one-stop distiller for all kinds of martinis!
Experience TAILPIPE Flavored Vodka at Wohlfert Craft Distilling’s tasting room in the charming Clearview area of Snohomish, where they are open to the public every weekend or by appointment. Fun fact: A distillery on personal property is very rare in the U.S. but Wohlfert sits 70 feet off the porch of John and Karen ’s house. They are never far from distilling! Also available at select fine bars, restaurants, and retail partners.
About Wohlfert Craft Distilling
Wohlfert Craft Distilling is an independent, craft distillery based in Snohomish, Washington, known for producing premium small-batch liqueurs and spirits with a focus on innovation, flavor, and quality. Visit www.WohlfertCraftDistilling.com for information and to place an order.
