CRAFT WONDER's Premium Strawberry Liqueur Wins 'Gold' at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2026

Small Giants Studio, Inc. (Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Hiroaki Nakagawa) announces that its premium alcohol brand 'CRAFT WONDER,' crafted in collaboration with Japanese artisan distilleries, has won a Gold award at the 'International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2026,' held in London, UK—the world’s most historic and authoritative spirits competition.

This accolade affirms the brand’s mission to reframe Japanese craftsmanship and elevate the value of domestically produced alcoholic beverages on the global stage.

Award Details and Judge Feedback

・Award: International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2026

・Rank: Gold

・Product: STRAWBERRY WONDER

・Official IWSC Tasting Note

https://iwsc.net/results/detail/173231/strawberry-wonder-liqueur

● Original

Dark, rich balsamic and ripe strawberries lead seamlessly to a wonderfully complex palate bursting with sweet molasses and umami depth. The vibrant tartness keeps it fresh and lively, while a long, mouth-watering finish leaves you craving more. Utterly delicious.

● Translation

Deep, rich balsamic and ripe strawberry aromas flow seamlessly into a wonderfully complex palate filled with sweet molasses and deep umami. Vibrant tartness keeps the experience fresh and lively, while a long, mouthwatering finish leaves you wanting more. Absolutely delicious.

About IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition)

Established in 1969 in London, UK, the IWSC is one of the world’s most historic and respected competitions for wines and spirits. Each year, thousands of entries from around the globe are evaluated through rigorous blind tastings by world-class judges and scientific analysis. The results are highly trusted by producers, distributors, and consumers worldwide and are widely recognized as one of the highest benchmarks in the global spirits industry.

About STRAWBERRY WONDER

A premium strawberry liqueur crafted by CRAFT WONDER, using the luxurious 'Kokuka' strawberry variety. This rich, seasonal liqueur captures the essence of peak harvest. Thanks to Kokuka’s superior aroma, sweetness, and depth—exceeding standard strawberries—this adult fruit liqueur delivers a balanced profile of vibrant color, floral aroma, intense sweetness, and refreshing acidity.

Official Online Store: https://craftwonder.jp/shop/products/SW200

● Key Features

Kokuka strawberries are slowly steeped whole, while additional juice and purée are blended in to balance richness with freshness.

Through extensive research and experimentation, the team achieved a sensory experience that surpasses even eating fresh strawberries—using only three simple ingredients: Kokuka strawberries, beet sugar, and alcohol.

No artificial flavors or colorings are used, allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to shine through in its purest form.

● Tasting Notes

Appearance & Palate

Deep, glossy red hue. A smooth, rich texture coats the tongue, delivering the refined sweetness and fresh aroma of carefully concentrated Kokuka strawberries. Subtle tartness and a hint of astringency create a pleasant, lingering finish.

Aroma

Floral and vibrant aroma of Kokuka strawberries, complemented by earthy undertones and a touch of vanilla-like sweetness, creating an elegant and layered olfactory experience.

● Strawberry Production Partner: Tanaka Farm

Founded in 2023, Tanaka Farm transitioned from zero farming experience or land to becoming a premium 'Kokuka' strawberry producer. Viewing agriculture as 'the ultimate retail business,' they committed to farming with integrity. Through dedicated effort, their first harvest was adopted by renowned department stores, and they have since expanded overseas. Each delicate Kokuka plant is nurtured like a child, aiming for rich aroma and deep flavor.

● Manufacturing Partner: K.S.P. Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2021, K.S.P. leverages the founder’s experience as a bartender skilled in herbal and botanical cocktails. In Kinshaki Town, Iwate Prefecture—a region rich in nature—they established 'Kinshaki Yakkusoshu,' a domestic herbal liqueur distillery. They are committed to creating international brands using Japan’s unique botanicals (such as shiso, sansho pepper, and wasabi), fruits, and citrus.

About CRAFT WONDER

CRAFT WONDER is a free-spirited, premium alcohol brand that partners with small and medium-sized distilleries across Japan. It unlocks their hidden craftsmanship and passion to develop and launch diverse alcoholic products.

About Small Giants Studio, Inc.

Mission: 'Creating more “small giants” from Japan.' The company runs a business production service that enhances the value of passionate, skilled small manufacturers in alcohol, food & agriculture, and traditional crafts—driving sustainable revenue and profitability.