The world’s best single malt whisky this year comes not from Scotland or Ireland but from Israel.

The Tel Aviv M&H (Milk and Honey) Distillery won the accolade for its Element Sherry Cask malt at the World Whiskies Awards 2023, held in London last week.

The Israeli distillery, founded only in 2013, also won the Craft Producer of the Year and Distiller of the Year awards.

Its Elements Sherry malt is matured in kosher sherry casks from Jerez, southern Spain.

“We are truly delighted to receive this accolade, and this recognition is a real testament to our ongoing hard work,” said Gal Kalkshtein, M&H founder and CEO.

“We pride ourselves in creating whiskies to the highest possible standard, using a creative mindset to challenge traditional industry methods and leveraging on Israel’s five unique distinct climate zones.

“For us, this is just the beginning.”

A panel of judges selected winners for each category following blind tastings of some 6,000 different types of whiskies from around the world.

M&H spirits, all of which are kosher, are sold in 40 countries.