Texas-Based Dietz Distillery’s Five Judges Gin Wins Silver At San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Five Judges Gin, a small-batch spirit crafted by Dietz Distillery in Fredericksburg, Texas, has been awarded a Silver Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), one of the most respected events in the global spirits industry.

Produced in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Five Judges Gin is a juniper-forward, London dry-style gin that blends traditional distilling techniques with regional ingredients. Its citrus notes come from fruit grown in the Rio Grande Valley, giving the gin a distinct Texan profile.

“We’ve always believed in honoring tradition while capturing the bold spirit of Texas,” said Dietz Fischer, owner and distiller at Dietz Distillery. “To see our Five Judges Gin recognized on a global stage is a tremendous honor. This award affirms our commitment to slow, intentional distilling and to producing something truly special right here in Fredericksburg.”

The name “Five Judges” reflects the family history of the Wieser farm, where the distillery is located. Over the past century, five judges have called the property home — three generations of the Wieser family, along with two early Texas justices. They include J.B. Wieser, Jarvis Wieser, Mark Wieser, M.A. Dooley, and Julius Schuchard.

Known for its rigorous blind tasting format, the SFWSC recognizes top-tier spirits from around the world. With this award, Five Judges Gin now claims a place among the most celebrated in its category.

Founded by Dietz Fischer in 2021, Dietz Distillery specializes in handcrafted premium spirits. Drawing on his background at Fischer & Wieser Specialty Foods and training with Austrian master distiller Markus Wieser, Fischer brings a blend of Old World technique and local tradition to the distillerys offerings. In addition to gin, Dietz Distillery produces fruit brandies and specialty spirits using ingredients sourced from the surrounding farmstead and Texas producers.

Five Judges Gin is available exclusively at the Dietz Distillery tasting room, located at the Fischer & Wieser Farmstead in Fredericksburg. Visitors to the distillery can sample its spirits in a relaxed Hill Country setting that celebrates the regions German-Texan roots.