Golden Blue International said on the 18th that last year's domestic sales volume of Taiwan's premium single malt whisky "Kavalan" in Korea rose 91.6% from a year earlier.
Kavalan is Taiwan's representative single malt whisky that broke the prejudice that "the subtropics make whisky production difficult." Golden Blue International has exclusively imported and distributed Kavalan since 2017.
Among the major product lines, "Kavalan Triple Sherry" posted a 145.8% increase in sales volume compared to 2024. Sales of "Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique" also rose 123.1% from a year earlier. The steady seller lineup "Kavalan Distillery Select No. 1" recorded a 111.7% year-over-year sales growth rate.
Golden Blue International said the secret behind this growth is Kavalan's unique maturation method that takes advantage of Taiwan's hot and humid climate and the rich, full flavors it produces. Owing to Taiwan's distinctive climate, Kavalan matures faster than typical whisky, drawing out deep oak cask character in a short period.
An aggressive marketing strategy to expand consumer touchpoints is also cited as a key driver behind the latest increase in Kavalan's sales volume. To broaden consumers' brand experience, Golden Blue International ran the "Team Kavalan" campaign in 2024. Korea's leading bartenders earned praise from consumers with signature cocktails that interpreted Kavalan in their own ways. Buoyed by this popularity, the company launched the second class of "Team Kavalan" in May last year.
In particular, Kavalan has continued to raise brand awareness as it wins favor with multiple celebrities. After appearing in director Park Chan-wook's film "Decision to Leave," Kavalan drew buzz as the "Park Chan-wook whisky." Famous entertainers including BTS member RM and Davichi's Kang Min-kyung have also named it their "favorite whisky," boosting its popularity among younger generations.
Park So-young, CEO of Golden Blue International, said, "Kavalan's growth is a meaningful result created by outstanding quality and a differentiated marketing strategy amid fierce competition in the domestic whisky market," adding, "We will further strengthen Kavalan's brand power through a variety of activities that can expand Kavalan's brand experience."