Robert Barrett and Rebel City Distillery: Cork Spirits on the World Stage
Rebel City Distillery is proud to celebrate an incredible moment for Cork and Irish distilling. Our Co-Founder and Master Distiller, Robert Barrett, has been shortlisted for Distiller of the Year at The Spirits Business Awards 2026, placing him among just four distillers shortlisted from around the world.This recognition adds to a growing list of awards for Rebel City Distillery and our range of Irish spirits.
Award-Winning Spirits from Cork
Maharani Gin
Our flagship Maharani Gin is a multi-award-winning Irish gin, crafted in Cork with botanicals sourced from Kerala, India.Maharani Gin has won five titles, including Gold at The Gin Masters, Silver at the London Spirits Awards, Bronze at Craft Spirits Berlin, Bronze at the IWSC and Silver at Blas na hÉireann.
Maharani Pomelo Vodka
Maharani Pomelo Vodka brings together Irish craftsmanship and South Indian inspiration, distilled in Cork with pomelo.In 2026, Maharani Pomelo Vodka was named Best Irish Vodka at the World Drinks Awards — another major achievement for Rebel City Distillery.
Rebel City Absinthe
Our small-batch Rebel City Absinthe is crafted by Robert Barrett from a historic French recipe and is a bold expression of our experimental approach to distilling.It has been awarded Gold at the Irish Whiskey Awards 2023 and Silver at the World Drinks Awards 2023.
From Cork to the World
From award-winning Maharani Gin and Best Irish Vodka to our internationally recognised Absinthe, Rebel City Distillery continues to put Cork on the global spirits map.Now, with Robert Barrett shortlisted among the world’s Top 4 distillers for Distiller of the Year, we’re incredibly proud of how far our small Cork distillery has come.Every award represents the passion, creativity and craftsmanship behind our spirits.
From Cork to the world, this is just the beginning.
Sláinte! 🥃
This recognition puts Cork and independent Irish distilling firmly on the global spirits stage. We couldn’t be prouder.
Join us in raising a glass to Robert Barrett — one of the world’s Top 4 distillers! 🥃
Sláinte!