ZestFest 2022: The Golden Chile

ZestFest is the Super Bowl of hot sauce competitions. Hundreds of brands from across the country bring their best. In 2022, Komodo Black walked away with the Golden Chile Award.

The Competition

ZestFest attracts everything from garage operations to major brands. Categories range from mild to extreme. The judging is blind — no brand names, no stories, just flavor.

What the Judges Said

Komodo Black stood out for its unique flavor profile. In a sea of vinegar-based and cayenne-forward sauces, the Indonesian soy base was unlike anything else on the table. Judges noted:

Exceptional balance of sweet and heat
Complex flavor that evolved on the palate
Unique ingredient combination
Professional consistency and texture

Why It Matters

Awards validate what customers already know — but they also open doors. The Golden Chile Award put Komodo Sauces on the map for retailers, distributors, and hot sauce enthusiasts who follow competition results.

The Flavor of Georgia

The same year, Komodo Black also won the Flavor of Georgia Award — a statewide competition celebrating the best food products made in Georgia. Two major awards in one year cemented Komodo's position as a serious player.

What's Next

These awards were just the beginning. With three sauces now in the lineup and growing demand, Komodo Sauces is positioned to compete at even higher levels in upcoming competitions.

Award: 2022 Golden Chile Award | Event: ZestFest, Texas | Category: Hot Sauce

ZestFest 2022: How Komodo Black Won the Golden Chile Award