From local trailblazer to global benchmark, Tanglin Spirits—Singapore’s first craft distillery—has once again rewritten the rulebook. At the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Tanglin clinched two Double Gold Medals, marking six consecutive wins for its flagship Black Powder Gin and officially crowning it the most awarded Navy Strength Gin in the world.
Founded in 2018 by explorers with a passion for flavour and innovation, Tanglin has evolved into a creative powerhouse—crafting gins, liqueurs, bitters, and experimental spirits that challenge conventions and elevate cocktails worldwide. This milestone cements not just Tanglin’s place in the spirits world, but also Singapore’s growing influence in the global craft movement. Because the future of craft doesn’t come from tradition alone, it comes from transformation.
We caught up with the Tanglin team’s esteemed General Manager, Tyler Hendrie, to unpack what it means for the craft distillery, behind this historic moment.
Popspoken: What does it mean for Singapore, and Asia, to have the world’s most awarded Navy Strength gin?
Tyler Hendrie: It’s a powerful moment of pride – not just for Tanglin, but for Singapore and Asia more broadly. Traditionally, premium gin has been associated globally elsewhere, but this recognition flips the script. It shows that Asia is not just a consumer of global spirits trends – we’re creators, innovators, and part of the conversation at the highest level.
For Singapore, a place known for innovation and multiculturalism, this award affirms that our botanicals and our craftsmanship can compete at the very top level. Our Navy Strength Gin is a reflection of Southeast Asia in a bottle – bold, layered, unapologetically original. And for Asia, it’s a signal to the world: this region is ready to lead the next wave of craft distilling. We hope Tanglin’s success inspires more distillers across Asia to express their unique identities and flavors with the same global ambition.
Popspoken: Tanglin Spirits has now won Double Gold six years in a row, what’s the secret to maintaining that level of consistency and excellence?
Tyler Hendrie: The secret is obsession. We don’t compromise – on sourcing, on process, or on quality. Every bottle of Tanglin is made with the kind of discipline and care that comes from a deep respect for the craft. We source botanicals from trusted partners across the region, and our distillery team treats every distillation like it’s going into the world’s spotlight. But beyond the technical side, it’s also cultural. Singapore’s DNA – its emphasis on excellence, systems, and precision – is in everything we do. Winning once is a milestone. Winning six years in a row is a mindset.
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