Penderyn Distillery, Wales’ leading single malt whisky producer, has been named “Wales Food and Drink Exporter of the Year” at the 2026 Wales Food and Drink Awards, held at the Swansea Building Society Arena.
The Wales Food and Drink Exporter of the Year category recognises Welsh food and drink producers that are successfully trading overseas and delivering strong, strategic growth across international markets. Penderyn was honoured for its continued expansion into key export territories and its role in putting Welsh whisky on the global map.
Stephen Davies, CEO of Penderyn Distillery, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to be named Exporter of the Year at the Wales Food and Drink Awards 2026. This award is a fantastic recognition of our team’s hard work and the ambition that has driven Penderyn from a pioneering Welsh distillery to a brand enjoyed in markets all over the world. Our focus has always been on crafting distinctive, high-quality Welsh whisky, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that commitment reflected in our export success. Wales has a powerful story to tell on the global food and drink stage, and we are proud that Penderyn can play a part in that.”
Since launching its first whisky in 2004, Penderyn has become a standard-bearer for Welsh whisky, evolving from an ambitious start-up into a globally recognised premium spirits brand. Today, the distillery exports to dozens of countries worldwide, including key markets such as China, the USA, France, Germany and India, and has amassed well over 100 international awards for quality and innovation.
The Exporter of the Year accolade follows a series of recent international successes for Penderyn, reaffirming its reputation as one of the fastest‑growing whisky brands in the UK and a leading ambassador for Welsh food and drink overseas.
The Wales Food and Drink Awards 2026 brought together hundreds of producers and industry leaders to celebrate excellence across the Welsh food and drink sector, from established names to innovative new businesses. The Exporter of the Year category, sponsored by Azets, looks for evidence of a robust internationalisation strategy, strong overseas growth and a clear commitment to building sustainable export performance.
Penderyn’s win underlines the distillery’s track record in:
- Expanding into new markets and deepening distribution in existing territories
- Building a strong Welsh brand identity that resonates with international consumers
- Maintaining premium quality and innovation across its whisky portfolio