Drinksbiz Magazine December 2021 January 2022

DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 DRINKSBIZ.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

e t a r b e l e C alian!

It

AKAROA CRAFT DISTILLERY

TALES OF THE HARBOUR TOLD IN GIN

This is my story first The story of a place. Whangaroa. Hakaroa. Akaroa.

But my tale begins millions of years before names, when two mighty volcanoes rose from the sea.

Flows of lava spilled down their flanks, forming land.

Over time my fire ceased. Wind and water ground down my vast volcanoes. The rising ocean flooded my extinct calderas, forming the harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton. My island became a peninsula, connected to Te Wai Pounamu by rocks and sands washed down from the Southern Alps.

The land and the sea

HECTOR’S LONG HARBOUR OCEAN WASH GIN

My slopes became green and thickly forested.

My hills rang with the songs of kiwi, kākāpō, parakeets and tūī. Moa roamed. My oceans thronged with dolphins, whales, penguins and kai moana in abundance.

Gods & people I sat with Maui as he fished up Te Ika a Maui.

He buried a troublesome giant under my mountains. I feel him stir from time to time.

I was here when the first humans came.

The Waitaha paddling their waka from Polynesia.

Ngāti Māmoe and Ngāi Tahu built their pā and planted their gardens. I was here when Te Rauparaha bought fire and blood to the harbour. I watched the Ngāi Tahu chiefs Iwikau and Tikao sign Te Tiriti o Waitangi at Ōnuku Marae. I saw the British plant their flags and the disappointment on Capitaine Langlois’s face as he returned too late to claim me for the French crown.

The essence of Akaroa Many have told my story. But only one has distilled the essence of this place to make poems that run over your tongue. Songs that sing in your mouth.

Ever y bottle is a taste of Akaroa .

Our gins are a true evocation of this beautiful part of Aotearoa .

Every bottle is a taste of this place. Kawakawa gathered in Little River, mānuka from Hinewai, kelp from Wainui, rosehips from Little Akaloa. Locally grown grapes, lemons, and honey, for gins that are a true evocation of this beautiful place.

Akaroa Craft Distillery.

Tales of the harbour told in gin.

B E V E R A G E B R OT H E R S . C O. N Z

@akaroacraftdistillery

MODERN CLASSICS.

ALL THE TASTE.

NONE OF THE

SUGAR.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. JACK DANIEL’S IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK. ©2021 JACK DANIEL’S. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. HANCOCKS WINE, SPIRIT & BEER MERCHANTS, 1-78 TIDAL ROAD, MANGERE, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND.

FROM THE EDITOR

Victoria Wells

Editor – Drinksbiz victoria@drinksbiz.co.nz

A summer to remember OUR DECEMBER-JANUARY issue is usually when we talk to key figures in the drinks industry about the year’s highlights and challenges, how they see the next 12 months shaping up, and their pick of the upcoming trends.

However, given the shifting sands around everything at the moment, it seemed a big ask for anyone to talk with any real certainty about what might be ahead. Instead, we thought we’d let the dust settle on 2021 first, because, as we all know, there's quite a bit of it.

As I write, we are just getting details around the COVID-19 Protection Framework rollout, employment law and vaccine mandates, and everything

in-between. While it might feel like much is still unclear, what we do all know is that the hospitality industry in Auckland is desperate to open its doors and join the rest of New Zealand. And that the rest of New Zealand is looking forward to Aucklanders being able to move around again, bringing their discretionary dollars with them.

Which brings me to summer. It's going to be a different sort of summer, that's for sure. The optimism we might have felt this time last year has been tempered by the reality of Delta – living in the shadow of a rampant virus has affected us all much more than we might realise, but the good news is that we are on a path forward.

Vaccination and vaccine passes mean life can go on, businesses will re-open, and friends and family around the country can finally reconnect.

Vaccination and vaccine passes mean life can go on, businesses will re-open, and friends and family around the country can finally reconnect.

For so many, the past few months have been so hard. And there will still be trying times ahead as we get used to living and working under the traffic light system – but now we have more certainty.

We know also, from past experience, that after so long in various stages of lockdown Kiwis will be more than ready to dine out at restaurants, meet up at bars, and fill the chilly bin to entertain at home.

So, let's make it a summer to remember and welcome in 2022 with a glass of something delicious – whether you're making it, selling it, or serving it (or all three).

Best wishes from all of us here at Drinksbiz for a safe, happy and very successful festive season.

Enjoy the issue, Victoria.

My picks 2018 Nautilus Vintage Rosé A deliciously pretty bubbly from winemaker Clive Jones – this feels like the ideal way to toast with friends and family this festive season. (Page 36) McLeod’s Wicker Basket Tropical Sour Because it’s summer, and this beer is full of tropical fruit flavours wrapped up with just the right hit of tartness. Perfect for watching the sun go down. (Page 51) Mucha Liga Blanco This bottle! I'm a sucker for great packaging and couldn't go past this Mexican wrestling-inspired example. It also helps that the excellent tequila inside is smooth, fresh and crisp. (Page 65)

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 5

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

PUBLISHER

Karen Boult karen@boult.co.nz +64 21 320 663 EDITOR

Victoria Wells victoria@drinksbiz.co.nz +64 27 575 9021 DESIGNER

Lewis Hurst lewis@hurstmedia.nz +64 21 146 6404 hurstmedia.nz

26

A DV E R T I S I N G

Roger Pierce advertising@drinksbiz.co.nz +64 274 335 354

BEER & CIDER

REGULARS

Diary Dates

10

Cover story

12

Industry News

14

International News

25

Feature: Ready for summer 26 RTD News

28

Legal Notes

30

Non-Alcoholic News

31

drinksbiz.co.nz

48 Beer & Cider Report

48

Opinion: Michael Donaldson 54 Beer & Cider News

56

SPIRITS

Associate Member (NZ) Drinksbiz is published every second month by Trade Media Limited, 300 Richmond Road,

32

Grey Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand.

WINE

Wine Report: Bubbles

32

Top Picks: Rosé

38

Opinion: Joelle Thomson

42

Wine News

44

The contents of Drinksbiz

60 Spirits Report: Tequila & Mezcal

are copyright and may

60

Opinion: Dominic Roskrow 74 Spirits News

77

not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher.

Please address all editorial, subscription and advertising enquiries to Trade Media

LAST ORDERS

6 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Limited, P O Box 37745,

Distributors

84

Last Orders: Melanie Kees

86

Parnell, Auckland.

MEET YOUR NEW PAL

Proudly distributed by Federal Merchants & Co

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Honesty and empathy After another tough year all round, Drinksbiz publisher Karen Boult says it’s important to acknowledge what we’re all going through.

IN NOVEMBER of each year, I’m asked to write the ‘Letter from the Publisher’ as we head towards Christmas. This is always a challenging undertaking. When writing it, there’s an underlying expectation that it will be cheery and uplifting.

I mean, this does make sense. Whether you celebrate Christmas or simply gather family together, the holiday period in December is implicitly a time of gratitude as we give thanks for the blessings we’ve received that year. Optimism is almost a condition of this time of year. Think of your favourite Christmas movies and songs: Love Actually, Home Alone and Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You (objectively, the best carol). They wouldn’t be very good Christmas tales if they weren’t dripping in gratitude.

With this in mind, I sat down to write this letter. As my fingers hovered above the keyboard, searching for uplifting inspiration, I couldn’t help but think: “Wow. This has been an incredibly tough year.”

In 2020, the global pandemic hit.

Millions of lives were lost; millions more lost jobs, houses and livelihoods.

Bush fires destroyed swathes of our neighbouring Australia. There were violent protests, locust swarms, Brexit and Megxit. And that was only overseas.

When many of us cheered in the New Year, we prophesied a better horizon: a more prosperous 2021. Boy, were we wrong.

2021 opened with violent protestors storming the Capitol Building in Washington. That really set the tone for the rest of the year. A more deadly Delta strain penetrated the New Zealand border, locking down Aucklanders for months on end. Families were torn apart, businesses 8 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

When someone asks me how my year was, I pledge to answer: “Honestly, it was pretty difficult.” shut down and, most horrifyingly of all, our country has been thrown into an ideological civil war, separated by pandemic philosophies.

Personally, I have found the past few months difficult. I have been separated from my son and his partner for months, along with many of our Auckland friends.

Other whānau are stuck overseas, unable to get an MIQ spot. Running a business during lockdown is never easy. And every day, there is the underlying – almost subconscious – stress that plagues me: the realisation that we are living in strange and uncertain times. Of course, I am blessed in so many ways. But, it’s been tough.

There is a concept known as “toxic positivity”. This is when someone “dismisses negative emotions and responds to distress with false reassurances, rather than empathy.” When someone expresses discomfort, trauma or even a simple “I’m not having a good day”, a toxic optimist will reply “Chin up,” “It’s fine” or the dreaded “It could be worse”. This philosophy has become a pandemic of its own, particularly in corporate environments.

Gratitude, perspective and optimism are incredibly important. But if we go without acknowledging the strife that many of us have faced this year and adopt a toxically positive mindset, we risk alienating and invalidating those who are struggling in the fallout of the pandemic. We risk stigmatising those with mental health issues, which have affected so many of us during lockdown. In the pursuit of gratitude, we sacrifice empathy.

So as 2021 draws to a close, I challenge the Love Actuallys, the Mariah Careys and the eternal optimists of the world to acknowledge the good and bad that the year has bestowed upon us.

I’m approaching the holidays with a sense of measured positivity. As I (hopefully) gather my whānau around the dining table for Christmas dinner, I will share all the things I am thankful for.

However, when someone asks me how my year was, I pledge to answer: “Honestly, it was pretty difficult.” And when someone responds with that same sentiment, I’ll listen, empathise, validate and then remind them: “Things will get better. It might just take a while.”

From the team at Drinksbiz, we wish you a safe summer, filled to the brim with measured optimism.

WHAT’S ON

Diary Dates DECEMBER

Saturday 18 December

Gindulgence – Nelson A showcase of New Zealand craft gins and international gins at Trafalgar Centre.

(There is a back-up date of 9 April, 2022.) gindulgence.co.nz JANUARY

Sunday 16 January

Toast Martinborough The iconic wine festival returns with its popular one day multi-vineyard event.

Ticket information and programme details are available on the website. toastmartinborough.co.nz 28 January – 6 February

Summer F.A.W.C – Hawke’s Bay Hawke’s Bay’s signature culinary festival returns with two weeks of unique gourmet events. fawc.co.nz Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 January

Gindulgence – Wellington A showcase of New Zealand craft gins and international gins at Frank Kitts Park. gindulgence.co.nz Saturday 29 January

The Great Kiwi Beer Festival – Chch Craft breweries from around the country will showcase their top brews at North Hagley Park with street food and live music. greatkiwibeerfestival.co.nz FEBRUARY

Friday 4 – Saturday 5 February

Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival Craft beer, local food and live music over two days at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Includes a homebrew competition and tasting room sessions. dunedinbeerfest.co.nz Saturday 5 February

South Island Wine Festival – Chch More than 40 South Island wineries will showcase their wines alongside local food, wine seminars, cooking demos and live music. winefestival.co.nz 10 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Saturday 12 February

Marlborough Wine & Food Festival

MARCH

New Zealand’s longest running wine festival is shifting to Renwick Domain for 2022 but as always will feature top wineries, local food and live music.

Exhibitor registrations and tickets at marlboroughwinefestival.co.nz

Saturday 5 March

Saturday 12 February

Saturday 5 March

NZ Cider Festival – Hawke’s Bay

Beers in the Park – Akld A day of craft breweries, local wineries, street food and live music at Victoria Park in Auckland’s CBD. beersinthepark.co.nz

Gincredible – Tauranga

This annual event has shifted to Hawke’s Bay and will be hosted in Nelson in alternate years. nzciderfestival.com

A boutique festival of craft gin, masterclasses, food and live music. bopginfestival.co.nz

Saturday 12 February

North Canterbury Wine & Food Festival – Waipara

Wellington Wine and Food Festival A wine, food and craft beer festival in Waitangi Park with live music. wineandfoodfestival.co.nz

Sunday 6 March

A boutique wine and food festival showcasing the wine and produce of North Canterbury. ncwineandfood.co.nz

Saturday 19 February

Gindulgence – Napier

Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 March

A showcase of New Zealand craft gins and international gins to be held in front of The National Tobacco Company Building in Ahuriri. gindulgence.co.nz

Gindulgence – Christchurch A showcase of New Zealand craft gins and international gins to be held at Ilam Homestead. gindulgence.co.nz

Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 February

Saturday 26 March

DramFest – Chch – SOLD OUT Whisky Galore will host its 8th biennial whisky festival at the brand-new Te Pae Christchurch Convention & Exhibition Centre. Rum will be the guest spirit and there will be more than 300 different whisky and rum expressions available to sample. Whisky and rum experts from New Zealand and overseas will host tasting sessions, both in person and virtually. dramfest.co.nz

Marchfest – Nelson This popular craft beer and music festival returns to Founders Heritage Park in Nelson, with breweries sampling beers created especially for the event. marchfest.com

Note: Events may be subject to change due to shifting COVID-19 restrictions around New Zealand.

While details were correct at time of print, we recommend checking individual event websites for the latest updates.

COVER STORY – LINDAUER PROSECCO

A taste of la dolce vita with Lindauer’s new Proseccos NEW ZEALAND’S most recognised sparkling winemaker*, Lindauer, has launched two authentic D.O.C Proseccos with Italy’s famed Zonin1821 in time for summer celebrations.

The two very special new wines have been crafted in Italy in a collaboration led by Lindauer’s long-standing and highly awarded winemaker, Jane De Witt, working with Zonin1821, a top Italian wine producer and one of the largest family-owned Prosecco companies in Italy.

“Bringing together the expertise of two winemaking regions from opposite sides of the globe to create something fresh,

What is Prosecco?

• Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine made in northern Italy from the Glera grape.

• ‘Prosecco’ is the legally protected name for this wine in the EU, and this is indicated by D.O.C, which means ‘Denominazione di Origine Controllata’ or ‘Denomination of Controlled Origin’.

• Prosecco has a delicate but lively mousse and traditionally has a fruit-forward flavour profile thanks to its tank fermentation and features notes of pear, apple, honeysuckle and other florals.

12 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

yet authentic has been an adventure,” says De Witt.

Made with Kiwi consumers in mind, the wines’ release comes as award-winning Lindauer marks its 40th anniversary.

Launching in 1981, Lindauer became synonymous with celebration in New Zealand by producing wines inspired by French traditions, delivering a uniquely approachable style, and wallet-friendly price points.

The Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C and Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C Rosé join the Lindauer Special Reserve collection, which includes Lindauer’s premium sparkling wines: Brut Cuvée, Rosé, Cuvée Riche, and Blanc de Blancs.

The new wines each bear the D.O.C signature (‘Denominazione di Origine Controllata’); an official stamp of authenticity so you know it’s from the exclusive region in Italy famous for Prosecco and made in line with their stringent procedures to protect the quality.

Dedicated to great-tasting New Zealand-made bubbles, De Witt says that Lindauer is excited to add Prosecco to the family, from this amazing winemaking region in Italy. “The partnership marks the coming together of 40 years of New Zealand winemaking heritage and seven generations of Italian Prosecco-making experience to deliver the quality for which the Lindauer Special Reserve range has become famous.

“Our Prosecco will build on a range that champions tradition – the existing Special Reserve Chardonnay and Pinot Noir based wines are aged in bottle on lees for up to two years, producing the creaminess and biscuity character known in methode-style wines.

“It’s this quality and taste that has seen these wines take out over 20 Gold and Silver awards in the last two years alone, including Champion Sparkling Wine at the New World Wine Awards 2021, Champion Sparkling Wine at the Sydney International Wine Show 2020, and Gold at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2021, ranked higher than many champagne houses.”

Francesco Zonin, Vice President of Zonin1821, is full of praise for the collaboration. “It is a great pleasure to partner with Lindauer and to have worked with an exceptional wine professional like Jane.

“This launch falls under a particularly good star for our family, as this year we celebrate the 200th anniversary of our

COVER STORY – LINDAUER PROSECCO

“Lindauer’s extended Special Reserve collection should be a go-to for Kiwi retailers who understand a product’s quality isn’t always capped by its shelf price. These are world-class wines that over deliver and deserve to be recognised for that.”

– Leila McCracken, Lindauer Senior Brand Manager

New from Lindauer - a taste of Italy Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C RRP $18.99 - available now

company; two centuries dedicated to sharing Italian traditions and bringing moments of joy to people around the world with our quality brands.”

Leila McCracken, Lindauer Senior Brand Manager, says: “Lindauer’s extended Special Reserve collection should be a go-to for Kiwi retailers who understand a product’s quality isn’t always capped by its shelf price. These are world-class wines that over deliver, and deserve to be recognised for that.

“Launching just in time for the warmer weather, Lindauer Prosecco DOC will be there for Kiwis to taste la dolce vita, Lindauer-style.”

With a straw-like colour, this classic Prosecco has a pleasantly intense flavour: fruity with hints of wisteria flowers and rennet apple.

An ideal match for fresh shellfish, risotto, or grilled fish.

Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C Rosé RRP $18.99 - available now

This pale pink Prosecco has notes of apple, red berries and wild strawberries. The perfect pairing for summer hors d’oeuvres and fragrant foods.

Lindauer is distributed by Lion.

Contact your Lion representative for details.

*KANTAR: BRAND AWARENESS (SEPT 2021, 12MMR)

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 13

INDUSTRY NEWS

Good Spirits Hospitality to buy Nourish Group GOOD SPIRITS Hospitality has announced plans to buy Nourish Group, which owns 10 hospitality venues around New Zealand including Soul Bar & Bistro, Shed 5 and Pravda Café and Grill.

The acquisition would more than double the size and earnings of GSH, which already owns 10 venues, including Danny Doolans and The Cav, and make it one of New Zealand’s largest hospitality operators.

GSH’s wholly owned subsidiary Good Spirits Hospitality No.2 Limited has entered into the conditional agreement to acquire all of the shares in Nourish Group Limited, which owns Soul Bar & Bistro, Talulah, The Chamberlain, The Brit, Andiamo, Shed 5, The Crab Shack (Wellington), Pravda Café and Grill, Jervois Steak House (Auckland and Queenstown) and also provides advisory services to Bistro Lago. It will also take the ownership rights to the brand The Crab Shack. Once complete, GSH will employ more than 450 people.

The deal – worth $21.3 million with up to an additional $5.9 million payable 12 to 24 months after settlement based on

DB shouts vaxxed employees $250 each

Richard Sigley, Nourish Group (left) and Geoff Tuttle, CEO, Good Spirits Hospitality.

venue outperformance – includes Nourish Group founder Richard Sigley joining the GSH board and executive team.

“This is a transformational growth opportunity for GSH,” said Good Spirits Hospitality’s Chair Duncan Makeig. “We are excited about the opportunity to leverage Nourish Group’s industry-leading expertise in the restaurant and social dining segments. The combined group will provide a platform for further growth and innovation.

“We look forward to welcoming Nourish Group’s founder Richard Sigley, who will join the GSH Board and executive to lead our creative and growth agenda, along with his executive team and all the Nourish staff and patrons to the GSH group,” said Makeig.

“GSH is delighted for the staff in both

DB IS giving each of its fully vaccinated employees a $250 ‘DB Shout’ fund to spend on drinks and eating out.

The company says the initiative is to demonstrate support for its customers and the hospitality industry, and also provides an incentive for DB staff to protect themselves and their communities by being fully vaccinated.

Paul Millward, Sales Director at DB Breweries, says: “We know our friends in hospitality are preparing for a busy December as people will look to reconnect and celebrate the festive season. We also know they’ve got lost time to make up for, so this is our way of showing our support and getting feet back through the doors of bars and restaurants.

“The ‘DB Shout’ fund is our way of showing direct support for our customers and the wider hospitality industry. We know it will bring life, smiles and cash into bars and restaurants,” says Millward.

14 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

companies and is committed to being the employer of choice in the on-premise hospitality sector,” said Geoff Tuttle, CEO of GSH. “Both GSH and Nourish have dedicated, strong teams of talented hospitality professionals. We also each hold a number of long-standing, trusted partnerships with suppliers and industry players that we look forward to jointly leveraging with our new scale and geographic reach.”

The owners of Nourish Group will retain The Crab Shack (Auckland).

Completion of the acquisition is subject to several conditions, including GSH’s shareholder approvals, which will be sought at a special shareholders’ meeting anticipated to be held in the first quarter of 2022.

Paul Millward

INDUSTRY NEWS

NEW ZEALAND Winegrowers says that international demand for New Zealand wine shows no sign of slowing, with export value reaching $599 million in the first quarter of the new export year, up 9% on the previous year. The demand for New Zealand wine is also reflected in an increase in price per litre, with the September quarter 2021 average value up 4% from September 2020.

But it says that while the quality of the 2021 vintage was exceptional throughout New Zealand’s wine regions, the fact the overall harvest was down 19% on last year’s crop and the resulting reduced supply is reflected in the decrease in volume of exports, with YTD September 2021 exports down 3% on the previous year.

“Successfully managing the market impacts of the resulting supply constraints is a key focus for many in the New Zealand wine industry. Wineries are having to make tough decisions over who they can supply in their key markets,” says Philip Gregan, CEO of New Zealand Winegrowers.

In addition, increasing production costs, the on-going effects of COVID-19 on the border and markets, and strained supply chains, have continued to impact growers and wineries.

The projected labour shortage and unavailability of skilled workers due to the ongoing closure of New Zealand’s borders remains a key concern, as these workers play a vital role in enabling the industry to meet the critical seasonal work peaks.

“With ongoing uncertainty at New Zealand’s borders, our industry is working hard to attract new people to our sector, to ensure we have the personnel in place to bring in the 2022 crop, to make our premium wine, and complete winter pruning. The recent decision to allow quarantine free travel for RSE workers is positive, and we continue to work with government to ensure that they are aware of the impact labour shortages will have on our members if they are not able to attract the workforce they need,” says Gregan.

He says that wine businesses that sell predominantly through the on-premise and tourism sector continue to experience significant challenges.

“Domestically, restrictions on operations of hospitality businesses are a major stress point for wineries dependent on that sector. Cellar doors have been hit hard by the collapse in international tourist numbers, as well as the impact of current restrictions on regional travel. Positively, we have seen more New Zealanders visiting cellar doors, but there are long, lean periods outside of the traditional Kiwi holiday period.”

COVID-19 has also greatly impacted the supply chain over the past year, with the ability to ship products to market becoming an ever-increasing concern.

“Like every industry dependent on sea-freight, the ability for New Zealand wineries to ship products to market has been greatly impacted, as transport costs more than double and shipping reliability plunges. Unfortunately, this is a worldwide problem without any quick fix.”

16 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

IMAGE COURTESY F.A.W.C – MANGAPAPA HOTEL

NZ wine demand up, exports down

Sally Duncan joins Laithwaites WINE INDUSTRY figure Sally Duncan has been appointed as New Zealand Country Manager for Laithwaites, a global direct-to-consumer wine company. Duncan, who is chair of Hawke’s Bay Winegrowers and sits on the New Zealand Wine Marketing Board, has made the move after 14 years as Sales and Marketing Manager at Te Mata Estate.

She says she’s relishing the new role. “Working for Laithwaites gives me some great exposure to an international network of wine brands – something to explore and extend my knowledge of wine. I’m so excited about the opportunities that Laithwaites can bring to New Zealand wineries too, with the potential opportunity to sell to a global network.

As Chair of Hawke’s Bay Winegrowers and on the New Zealand Wine Marketing Board I’m perfectly placed to champion New Zealand wine!”

New Managing Director for DB DB BREWERIES has announced the appointment of a new Managing Director. Matt Wilson, currently Corporate Affairs Director and Transformation Lead at DB, will step into the role on January 1, 2022.

DB’s current Managing Director, Peter Simons, is moving on to a new role within The Heineken Company that is yet to be announced.

Simons has spent 30 years with Heineken in different roles around the world. DB says he leaves the New Zealand business in good shape following numerous successful innovations, a focus on growth and value creation, and bold ambitions in the sustainability space. The company says it has experienced steady positive financial growth across all metrics under Simons’ leadership.

Matt Wilson has been with the company for 12 years in a variety of senior management roles. Since joining DB in 2009 as Legal Counsel, he has served as the Corporate Relations & Legal Director at DB and Corporate Affairs Director at Heineken Vietnam, before moving back to New Zealand in 2020 as Corporate Affairs Director and Transformation Lead at DB. Prior to joining DB, Wilson worked in the legal and banking sectors in New Zealand, France and the UK. DB says that Peter Simons’ new Heineken role and Matthew Wilson’s replacement will both be announced in the coming months.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Tom Robinson

Aidan Collins

Andrew Dufty

Jo Jalfon

New appointments at Asahi Beverages NZ ASAHI BEVERAGES NZ has made several new senior appointments across supply chain, sales and communications.

“We’re excited to be welcoming new people to our team who bring with them outstanding, and in several cases, global experience to drive future growth,” says CEO Andrew Campbell.

Tom Robinson has been appointed to the newly-created role of GM Supply Chain based at Asahi Beverage’s Papakura manufacturing site. British-born Robinson has been Plant Manager at Asahi

Beverages’ Yatala Brewery on the Gold Coast, which is Australia’s largest brewery, for the last 11 years. He was previously a Head of Manufacturing for Heineken based in the UK for four years.

He has commenced his new role remotely and will move to Auckland when the travel bubble between Queensland and Auckland reopens.

Mark McGuire has taken up the new role of NZ Capital Projects Manager, responsible for the businesses’ supply chain function.

McGuire has been with Asahi Beverages

NZ for over 12 years and was previously Manufacturing Operations Manager.

Aidan Collins is the new Head of On-Premise while Andrew Dufty has taken on the newly-created role of Head of Field Sales for the company’s alcohol beverages sales team.

Jo Jalfon has been appointed to the newly-created position of Manager, Corporate Communications and is responsible for internal and external communications for the growing beverage business.

pioneering US craft brewer and both companies share a deep commitment to their co-workers, communities and customers.

We’re thrilled to be taking this next step in the United States and bringing these two great names in craft brewing together.

Founded in 1985 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Bell’s has grown to become one of the largest craft brewers in the country, with distribution across 43 states as well as the

District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Its flagship beers are national brands, and many have developed cult followings, including the Two Hearted Ale, voted the best beer in America on four consecutive occasions by members of the American Homebrewers Association.

Lion says that the transaction will close upon receipt of all regulatory consents, which is expected in the coming months.

Lion acquires U.S. craft brewer Bell’s LION HAS announced its acquisition of Michigan’s Bell’s Brewery, which will come together with its existing New Belgium Brewing subsidiary to position the Australasian company as a major player in the U.S. craft beer market.

Lion says that the combination of Bell’s and New Belgium (which Lion acquired in 2019) places it at the top of the U.S. craft beer market in sales volume and growth, with a line-up of brands that includes the #1 IPA brand in the U.S., Voodoo Ranger, along with Fat Tire, Two Hearted Ale, and Oberon Ale. Managing Director of Lion’s global craft beverages business, Matt Tapper, said that Bell’s history, outstanding brewing credentials and brand appeal would complement New Belgium and support the expansion of Lion’s US operations.

“In terms of quality, capability and reputation, Bell’s is a standout in the American craft brewing scene. They’re a great match for New Belgium, another

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18 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

INDUSTRY NEWS

CCEP NZ named best Coca-Cola bottler in the world

Kiwi eateries named in World’s Best Wine Lists 2021 TWO NEW Zealand eateries have been awarded in The World of Fine Wine ‘World’s Best Wine Lists Awards 2021’.

Cocoro in Auckland’s Ponsonby and Wellington’s Ortega Fish Shack were named in the global awards, alongside some of the leading lights in the world of wine and food.

Cocoro received the award for ‘Best Short Wine List in the World 2021’, while Ortega Fish Shack was awarded ‘Best By-the-Glass Wine List (Without Coravin®) in the World 2021’.

The World’s Best Wine Lists is a global awards program created in 2014 by The World of Fine Wine. With over 20 global categories, it is the first awards program to acknowledge the importance of wine selection – regardless of size – in the modern dining experience around the world.

The judging panel of wine industry experts selected winners from over 100 shortlisted establishments.

COCA-COLA EUROPACIFIC Partners New Zealand (CCEP NZ) has been named the winner of the 2020 Candler Cup, a competition to find the best Coca-Cola bottler in the world.

The competition is designed to recognise the Coca-Cola bottler that best demonstrates executional excellence including investment in people, capability, and culture. With over 220 bottling partners globally, there are qualifying criteria to gain entry into the competition. Following

this, regional competitions are held until nine bottlers head into the global finals.

While nowhere near the biggest in the world by size, CCEP NZ stood out in other significant areas such as consistent sustainable growth, record employee engagement, and leading customer support all set against the backdrop of a global pandemic.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand had made it to the top three in 2017 and 2018, but this is the first time the company has won.

World’s Best Wine Lists Awards 2021 - Champion’s League Winners Champions’ League Best Overall Wine List 2021: Eleven Madison Park (USA) Champions’ League Best By-the-Glass Wine List 2021: P ark Hotel, Vossevangen (Norway) Champions’ League Best Champagne & Sparkling Wine List 2021: Pix Pâtisserie (USA) Champions’ League Best Dessert & Fortified Wine List 2021 : Robuchon au Dôme, Grand Lisboa Hotel (Macau) Champions’ League Best Spirits List 2021: The Barn at Blackberry Farm (USA) Full results are at: awards-wbwla.worldoffinewine.com

Boom in no-alc beers a turning point says NZABC THE NZ Alcohol Beverages Council (NZABC) says a turning point in Kiwi’s attitudes toward balance and moderation has seen no- and low-alcohol drinks become more socially acceptable, as evidenced by the recent boom in no-alcohol beers. It points to a 322% increase in the availability of no-alcohol beer (less than 1.15% ABV) in New Zealand in the span of a year (June 2020-June 2021)1.

“Kiwis are making better decisions about alcohol, and our behaviours are changing, particularly how we drink and socialise and our purchasing decisions,” says Bridget MacDonald, NZABC’s executive director.

“It’s being driven by a shift in positive social attitudes toward no- and lowalcohol beverages, which are now seen as socially acceptable. Forty per cent of Kiwis

consumed low-alcohol drinks last year2. They are choosing drink options that better suit their lifestyle or personal situation.

“Research earlier this year found 91% of Kiwi males wouldn’t care if a friend chose not to drink alcohol on a night out, and 65% of Kiwis say they feel comfortable not drinking alcohol on a night out. This suggests that Kiwis’ current attitudes and behaviours are more focused on moderation and being sociable, and the social pressures to drink are becoming less acceptable,” she says.3 “This is a positive story – one of moderation, innovation and consumer choice. Around 80% of Kiwis say they would like to alternate more between drinking non-alcohol and alcohol-based drinks when socialising with their friends – so it’s important people have choices

whether they are out with friends in a bar or at a family BBQ. With increasing consumer demand for lower-alcohol drinks, we are seeing a rapid expansion of no/low category products,” says MacDonald. 4 Endnotes 1 StatsNZ Infoshare, Alcohol available for consumption to June 2021 (published 24 August 2021), http://infoshare.stats.govt.nz/ See Industry sectors: Alcohol available for consumption: Litres of Beverages: Annual to June (June 2020: 0.508 million L; June 2021: 2.147 million L of beer <1.15% alc by volume). No-alcohol definition: Less than 1.15% ethanol by volume. https://www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/key-initiatives/ sale-and-supply-of-alcohol/key-points-for-businesses/new-rules/ 2 NZ Alcohol Beverages Council, New Zealander’s attitudes to alcohol, December 2020, poll of 1000 New Zealanders. They were asked: Do you drink low-alcohol beverages, and if so have you consumed more or less in the past year compared to 12 months ago? 40% of respondents say they drink low-alcohol beverages. 25% say they are drinking the same amount of low-alcohol beverages, 8% more and 8% less than a year ago.

The most common reasons for drinking low-alcohol beverages were: they prefer low-alcohol (22%), health and wellbeing (18%) and driving (17%), to be social (12%), avoid being intoxicated (5%), and looking for a lower calorie drink (5%).

3 Consumer research by 3Gem on behalf of Lion NZ, August 2021, sample size 1,000 New Zealanders aged 18-65 years.

4 Consumer research by 3Gem on behalf of Lion NZ, August 2021, sample size 1,000 New Zealanders aged 18-65 years.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 19

INDUSTRY NEWS

Lyre’s valued at $514 million NON-ALCOHOLIC SPIRITS brand Lyre’s has completed a $38 million (£20 million) funding round in the UK, valuing the business at $514 million (£270 million) and extending its position as the most valuable brand in the no/low alcohol category worldwide.

Since its founding in 2019, Lyre’s has entered more than 60 countries and secured partnerships with the world’s leading spirits distributors and listings with over 50 major retailers.

Lyre’s was created to replicate the world’s most popular spirits in a nonalcoholic format. Its portfolio of 14 premium non-alcoholic spirits expanded recently with a range of ready-to-drink pre-mixed non-alcoholic cocktails.

“Millennials and older Gen Zs are drinking less alcohol than any generation before them, but the mindful drinking

movement transcends generations and cultural borders. We’re not only growing our business – we’re expanding the whole category, entering territories like the Middle East and Far East virtually uncontested,” said Mark Livings, Lyre’s co-founder and CEO. “The pace of growth we’re seeing is exceptional. We sold our first bottle in 2019 and today we’re selling one at least every 30 seconds. On our current trajectory, Lyre’s is set to become the fastest independent beverage brand to reach Unicorn status.”

Lyre’s says that funds will be used predominantly for marketing, as well as to significantly grow headcount, creating more than 50 new jobs in sales and marketing, production, logistics, finance and e-commerce. Lyre’s will also continue to co-invest with several manufacturing partners to expand production capacity to meet demand across its facilities in the UK, Germany, Australia, and the US. Lyre’s has also established an R&D division in partnership with beverage technology giant Döhler.

New digital gift card for hospo venues A DIGITAL gift card for use in hospitality venues around the country has been launched by Hospitality New Zealand with hopes it will help to boost businesses over summer.

The KOHA Card can be purchased online, sent to any cellphone number,

20

stored digitally in a smartphone wallet, and redeemed at any participating hospitality venue on food, drink, activities and accommodation.

A purchaser buys a card online, nominates a value, and provides the recipient’s phone number.

The recipient receives a text with a personalised message and a link to the digital card with its value.

The card can be saved into a smartphone wallet ready for use at Eftpos terminals in participating venues. Balances can be checked online or at the redeeming venue. Online sales websites include KOHAcard.co.nz and giftstation.co.nz.

Registering as a participating business is free with no fixed term contract. There is a flat fee of $0.25c per transaction but no ongoing charge to have KOHA Card redemption available on terminals.

Hospitality New Zealand Chief Executive Julie White says the card is

one for the times as KOHA is digital and contactless, meaning it can be used anywhere in the country, whatever the Alert Level.

“It takes the guesswork out of choosing a gift, letting the recipient choose what he or she wants from their favourite business or venue.

“Being digital and contactless means you can shout friends or family a gift of a coffee, a meal, or a staycation of any value you want and it doesn’t matter where you live or if you’re at different alert levels.

“This is game-changing technology the industry has been waiting for. Users get something that’s mobile and flexible and everyone will be helping our industry of largely family-owned small businesses at a time when they’re on their knees and struggling due to COVID.” hospitality.org.nz/s/koha-card

GIN AS IT SHOULD BE. WE DON’T CUT CORNERS. IT TOOK US FIVE YEARS TO PERFECT OUR GIN, AND TEN YEARS ON, I STILL HAND ZEST THE YEN BEN LEMONS AND NAVEL ORANGES TO COAX THE DELICATE OILS FROM THEIR SKINS. I STILL COLLECT PURE, NATURAL SPRING WATER THAT HAS TAKEN YEARS TO FILTER THROUGH THE REMUTAKA RANGES. I STILL TWICE-DISTIL AND TASTE EVERY BATCH FOR THAT HALLMARK LIGHTHOUSE STYLE – A REMARKABLY CLEAN, SMOOTH, CITRUSY GIN THAT’S TRUE TO ITS LONDON DRY STYLE. AND WHEN THE GLOBAL GIN MASTERS COMPETITION AWARDS US THEIR HIGHEST ACCOLADE – ‘MASTER’ – I SMILE AND SIT BACK WITH THE PERFECT GIN & TONIC.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Young wine industry talent looks to 2022 Our wine industry up and comers are preparing for big things, with the Young Winemaker of the Year and the Young Horticulturist of the Year scheduled for February.

Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year WITH THE regional competitions completed, the three winners from these are now preparing to compete for the title of the Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year 2021.

The National Final will take place at Amisfield Winery, Pisa Ranges in Central Otago on 3 February 2022 (pushed out due to recent COVID restrictions). The Awards Dinner will be held the same evening at The Canyon at Tarras Vineyard in Bendigo.

The 2021 finalists are:

Jordan Moores, 26, is representing Central Otago. He is Assistant Winemaker at Valli Wine and is inspired by working with the different subregions of Otago, which are expressed in the wines. He is excited about competing on his home ground and looks forward to doing the supportive locals proud.

Peter Russell, 30, is representing Marlborough. He is a Winemaker at Matua and as well as producing high volume wines for the international market, he loves experimenting with small batches of Sauvignon Blanc. He and his partner also own their own vineyard with a focus on sustainability and soil health.

Good luck to all contestants in this year’s competitions.

22 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Ben McNab, 29, is representing Wairarapa.

He is Assistant Winemaker at Palliser and enjoys working with quality fruit from Palliser’s six single vineyards. He is particularly excited about Chardonnay. Ben has also produced his own wine under the Collaboration Label with Braden Crosby at On Giants Shoulders.

Young Vit Rhys Hall heads to Young Hort of the Year Each year the winner of the Young Viticulturist of the Year goes through to represent the wine industry in the Young Hort competition. This year, Rhys Hall, Assistant Vineyard Manager at Indevin, is stepping up to the challenge, proudly representing Viticulture.

He was the 2020 Corteva Young Viticulturist of the Year, but Young Hort was cancelled last year due to COVID, so he is delighted to now have the opportunity to compete. He is already working on his business innovation project as well as studying hard for the competition itself, which will be held on 22 and 23 February 2022 in Auckland.

The 2018 and 2019 Young Horticulturist competitions were won by Young Vits Annabel Bulk and Simon Gourley.

The Young Vit 2021 National Final is due to be held on 27 January 2022 at Bankhouse Vineyard in Marlborough.

For more information see nzwine.com/en/initiatives/

Distributed by Federal Merchants & Co

SHOWCASE

Presenting ‘The Free Spirit Collection’ FRENCH SPECIALIST glass company Saverglass offers its Free Spirit Collection for both the traditional spirit range and the no- and low-alcohol beverages becoming so popular.

its carnette finish allow for truly unique customization.

ICONIC SPRING

Gorgeous and dazzling, the ICONIC SPRING bottle stands out for its soft contours. It features a minimalist, subdued, rounded design and a stylish neck, topped with a small, vibrant carnette finish. Light as a feather, it has a quintessentially Saverglass flat and discreet punt. Its inverted conical body offers an infinite array of variations. A bottle full of promises — a future must!

and contemporary design codes with aplomb. Its lighter weight of 620g (700ml) makes it attractive for both economics and sustainability.

TSAR

SUMMER CHIC

A compact and tapered bottle, featuring slightly rounded edges, TSAR sports an immediately recognisable profile with a simple style that astutely combines functionality and ergonomics. Featuring a short neck, the ultra-modern, inverted and tapered design is available in 700ml, 750ml and 500ml. While reminiscent of a flask, the modern lines bridge historical

Summer Chic

Tsar

Iconic Spring

Lightweight, SUMMER CHIC is captivating for its unusual, vibrant and majestic look.

The soft purity of its lines and the strength of its elegant yet discreet charm give it a unique and immediately identifiable presence. SUMMER CHIC will enhance all your spirits, from the simplest to the most prestigious. Its ceremonious shape, the subtlety of its punt and the finesse of

ICONIC SPRING

If freedom were a fragrance, it would be an elaborate composition of vitaminrich fruits, refreshing aromatic herbs and nostalgic spices, just like the alcohol-free cocktails that are shaking up the world of mixology.

These new spirit-free concoctions are flavourful, fruity, colourful and cheery.

They quench a thirst for simple, authentic pleasures. Inspired by this wave of alternative thinking, the FREE SPIRIT collection from Saverglass exudes an exhilarating breath of fresh air. Three shapes, delicate and full of zing, to re-enchant a gustatory, sensory and celebratory universe.

More elaborate than they might at first appear, these new bottles with an inverted conical shape are sure to impress.

View the Free Spirit Collection at: www.saverglass.com/en/inspirations/ new-products/free-spirit 09 522 2990 saverglass.com

LET YOUR SPIRIT SWELL

Gorgeous and dazzling, the ICONIC SPRING bottle stands out for its soft contours. It features a minimalist, subdued, rounded design and a stylish neck, topped with a small, vibrant carnette finish.

Light as a feather, it has a flat and discreet punt, which is, after all, the charm of Saverglass. Its inverted conical body offers an infinite array of variation. A bottle full of promises — a future must!

Saverglass (NZ) Limited | www.saverglass.com Haute Couture Glass | Tel +64 9 522 2990

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Brits turned to wine and spirits in 2020 lockdowns BRITS DRANK more wine and spirits – but less beer – during the 2020 lockdowns, according to new data from The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

The trade association says that total beer sales fell by 14.2% in 2020 in Britain due to pandemic and lockdowns, pointing to data published in its latest 2021 Statistical Handbook.

It says that during the lockdowns of 2020, the percentage share of alcohol consumed through wine and spirits in the UK each increased by two percentage

points compared with 2019.

Over the same period, the percentage share of alcohol consumed through beer decreased by four percentage points.

According to the BBPA, the key reason behind the shift in drinking habits during the pandemic was due to the forced closure of pubs, which led to Brits consuming wine and spirits bought from supermarkets and shops instead of draught beer bought over the pub bar. It says that typically, seven in 10 alcoholic drinks served in a pub are beer.

The trade association says the data shows how crucial pubs are to encouraging moderate consumption of alcohol through draught beer, which is on average 4.2% ABV. It also said the numbers demonstrated the damage of lockdowns to brewers, who lost a key route to market when pubs were forced to close during the lockdowns of 2020.

At the recent Budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled changes to the alcohol duty regime in the UK to better incentivise the consumption of lowerstrength drinks such as lower alcohol beer. However, craft brewers have raised concerns over the effects this will have on the viability of brewing beer styles higher in alcohol.

Pernod Ricard opens malt whisky distillery in China

Carlsberg recognised for world-leading water efficiency CARLSBERG GROUP has been named as recipients of the 2021 Lighthouse Awards for a revolutionary water recycling plant inaugurated in 2021, which will make the Fredericia brewery in Denmark the most water efficient brewery in the world.

The winning Lighthouse organisations, named so because they are shining a light for others to follow, have developed new ways of using technology, finance or partnerships, including circularity in their practice, to reduce their impact in water-stressed regions, or build resilience in their local water systems.

The Lighthouse Awards were launched by not-forprofit Brave Blue World Foundation in 2020 to recognise those creating solutions for environmental sustainability.

The technology at Fredericia Brewery recycles 90% of the process water, and will halve water use from 2.9hl per hl of beer to just 1.4 hl/hl, saving around 500 million litres a year. By processing the water to generate biogas and recirculating hot water, the plant is also expected to cut brewery energy consumption by around 10%. The learnings will support Carlsberg to reach its target to virtually eliminate water waste globally by 2030.

PERNOD RICARD has become the first international spirits and wines group to establish a fully operational malt whisky distillery in China, unveiling The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery in Emeishan, Sichuan Province.

The USD$150 million project has been ten years in the making and Pernod Ricard says it reflects the company’s commitment to China with an ambition to bring new iconic products and experiences to its consumers and contribute to the sustainable growth of the economy and society.

“We consider it our mission to bring to life the most iconic malt whisky made in China with pride, leveraging the expertise we have as a market leader,” said Philippe Guettat, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard Asia. “Our master distiller, Yang Tao has been working with our heritage master distillers in Scotland to bring the most authentic whisky making know-how into China, while leveraging the pristine water source of Emei, renowned for its utmost quality.”

The distillery contributes to carbon neutrality by sourcing 100% renewable electricity, minimising the use of natural gas, and offsetting remaining emissions in a Sichuan biogas programme. 100% of wastewater on site will be processed and the distillery takes on a local preservation approach in using mostly recycled and local materials in its construction to reduce carbon footprint.

The distillery will also feature a visitor centre, set to open in 2023, which Pernod Ricard says aims to draw two million tourists in its first decade.

Diageo breaks ground on China malt whisky distillery Diageo broke ground in November on the site of its first malt whisky distillery in China. Located in Eryuan County in Yunnan Province, the Diageo Eryuan Malt Whisky Distillery is a US$75 million investment that will produce Diageo’s first China-origin, single malt whisky. Construction is expected to begin in early 2022.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 25

FEATURE – COVID-19 UPDATE

Ready for summer…

A round-up of useful resources and information around operating and working under COVID-19 rules this summer.

My Vaccine Pass This is an official record of a person’s COVID19 vaccination status. It can be downloaded and stored in digital form (on a phone) or printed out, and will provide access to places within New Zealand that require proof of vaccination under the new COVID-19 Protection Framework.

My Vaccine Pass looks the same for both vaccinated individuals and those who are medically exempt. This is to ensure that those who are medically unable to be vaccinated won’t be discriminated against and the privacy of their personal information is protected.

My Vaccine Pass is free and available through mycovidrecord.health.nz or call 0800 222 478.

Where is My Vaccine Pass required?

Under the COVID Protection Framework, people will have to show their My Vaccine Pass as proof of vaccination status to enter hospitality venues (bars, restaurants etc) and other higher-risk public settings around New Zealand, such as events, community, sport, and faith-based gatherings.

Retailers can decide (opt-in) whether to require My Vaccine Pass.

However, proof of vaccination is not required at essential services such as supermarkets, pharmacies, health and disability services, food banks, or petrol stations.

Businesses, events, organisations, community, and a range of sectors may legally choose to implement a vaccination entry requirement for customers.

If a business, organisation or service does not wish to request proof of vaccine, they will have to operate with strict limits on capacity and space requirements. For example, a hospitality venue that decides against requiring proof of vaccination for customers can offer only contactless service under Orange/Red levels and must operate under number and spacing restrictions under Green.

Children under the age of 12 are not required to provide proof of vaccination.

NZ Pass Verifier This is the free Ministry of Health app that businesses use to verify a customer’s My Vaccine Pass if required. Businesses can download the verifier app onto a smartphone or tablet to use on entry to their premises.

Download the NZ Pass Verifier at the Apple App Store and on Google Play.

More information about how it works is at health.govt.nz/nz-pass-verifier 26 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Vaccination and the workplace The Government has mandated vaccination for anyone who works at a business where customers are required to show their My Vaccine Pass for entry, such as hospitality, events and large gatherings.

• Unvaccinated workers covered by this mandate need to have had their first dose by 3 December and be fully vaccinated by 17 January, 2022.

Legislation to clarify the employment law around requiring staff to be vaccinated was still being passed as Drinksbiz went to print, however, the Government had indicated it will cover the following: • provisions for paid time off for employees to get vaccinated • four weeks’ paid notice for any employee who has their job terminated because they are not vaccinated, and whose job requires it.

Employers and employees are encouraged to have good faith conversations about the vaccination requirement.

For businesses where a Government vaccine mandate is not in place, the Government is creating a vaccination assessment tool that businesses can follow when deciding whether they can require vaccination for different types of work.

The tool is likely to include the following four factors. If at least three of them are met, it would be reasonable to require vaccination for that work. The factors are: • work is done indoors, in a space smaller than 100m2 • work is done less than 1 metre apart from other people • work is done in proximity to other people for more than 15 minutes • work involves providing services to people who are vulnerable to COVID-19.

The Government says the tool will provide a clear, legal framework to help businesses make decisions about vaccinations in the workplace. It will be available for businesses to use once regulations are made in mid-December under the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020.

It will be optional for businesses to use the tool and the tool will not override any risk assessments that have already been done.

Find the latest about vaccine mandates and the employment law changes at • employment.govt.nz •b usiness.govt.nz/news/getting-readyfor-the-covid-19-protection-framework/

FEATURE – COVID-19 UPDATE

Financial help for businesses COVID-19 Business Helpline

A helpline for questions about government support, the wage subsidy, the Small Business Cashflow Loan Scheme, business cashflow and tax measures, or business debt. There is also help available around restructuring, health and safety, business continuity and planning for the future.

• North Island – call 0800 500 362 • South Island – call 0800 505 096 Xero offers free counselling to Akld small businesses

Xero is offering free and confidential professional counselling to all 200,000+ small business owners in Auckland (whether a Xero customer or not) through its Xero Assistance Programme (XAP) until the end of the year.

The XAP is facilitated through wellbeing provider Benestar and offers confidential and free access to three telephone, live chat, or online counselling sessions. (Terms apply.)

To access, message xap@xero.com with the name of your business.

#Help for hospo Financial help for hospitality workers in need during the COVID outbreak is available through helpforhospo.co.nz.

The fund was started by Red+White Cellar Managing Director, Blair Duncan, after he heard stories from within the industry of people needing assistance as COVID forced the ongoing closure or reduced activities of hospitality businesses – particularly those people trying to support dependents.

His initial donation of $10,000 has been matched by others and individuals and businesses continue to donate. Those in the industry can apply for financial assistance via the website at helpforhospo.co.nz

Useful websites covid19.govt.nz – explanations of the COVID-19 Protection Framework (traffic light system), vaccines, working and doing business under COVD-19. business.govt.nz – the government’s central resource for business information with COVID-19 guidance and details of financial help available. employment.govt.nz – information on your rights and responsibilities as an employer or employee. ird.govt.nz/covid-19 – information on tax relief and income assistance if you’re affected by COVID-19.

Govt to back summer festivals The drinks industry can take some heart from news the government is getting behind large summer festivals by shouldering the lion’s share of risk during planning.

Under the new Events Transition Support Scheme the government will cover 90% of unrecoverable costs for paid, ticketed events with audiences of more than 5,000 vaccinated people, if organisers are forced to cancel or postpone due to COVID-19 public health measures.

Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash says the scheme is designed to give festival organisers greater confidence to plan and incur costs in the face of public health risks from COVID-19. “Events typically only generate revenue on the day or weekend they take place, yet incur significant costs in advance. Organisers of large-scale summer festivals have to make decisions now about whether to proceed as their risk window is closing. There aren’t insurance options in the market to cover this so the government is stepping up as a type of underwriter,” said Nash.

Event organisers can apply via the MBIE website to check their eligibility.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 27

RTD NEWS

Honest cans it for summer HOT ON the heels of its botanically infused rum, local company Honest Rum has added a canned cocktail to its portfolio in time for summer. Honest Six Spiced Ginger Beer, Wild Mint & Fresh Lime (5% ABV) is available in a home compostable 6-pack box of 330ml cans for RRP $24.99.

“Six Spiced & Ginger cocktails have always been a personal and fan favourite,” says Dave Lincoln, co-founder of Honest Rum. “It’s also more unique than the current market offering, with a very strong natural ginger flavour profile, plus it’s the only locally made canned rum around.”

Distributed by Mineral

A Kiwi twist on sangria A SPANISH classic gets a Kiwi makeover with the launch of new Zangria – a blend of Rosé, natural watermelon and berry juice, and sparkling water. It’s the creation of Bonnie Shum and Mitch Wiffin, who spent 15 years working in advertising and marketing before launching their own small business with Zangria. Zangria is is 4.8% ABV and classified as a “fruit wine”, so can be sold in supermarkets. It is batch brewed and contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Zangria is available in 330ml can 10-packs for RRP $27.99 Contact info@zangria.co.nz 28 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Cocktail Collusion from The Bond Store AWARD-WINNING KAPITI Coast distillery The Bond Store has released a new ‘ready-todrink’ cocktail range called Cocktail Collusion, made in collaboration with popular Waikatobased mobile bar The Cocktail Cart.

Available in 250ml cans, the first two cocktails in the range are the Kapiiti Mule featuring Koakoa Vodka, and The Magician, featuring Bond Store Kawakawa Gin and Koakoa Limoncello. The cocktails were created by Dorothy Whitham, owner of The Cocktail Cart, and are made at the Bond Store’s Kapiti Distillery. There are plans to to add two more cocktails to the range before Christmas.

Cocktail Collusion (6.9% ABV), 250ml 4-pack RRP $23.

Order through thebondstore.co.nz

New from Odd Company TWO NEW flavours are now available in the Odd Company range with the arrival of ‘The Tropical One’ (vodka and tropical with sparkling water) and The Newbie (vodka, pear and apple with sparkling water). Both are 5% ABV. The Tropical One is in 330ml can 10-pack for RRP $26.99, and The Newbie is in 330ml bottle 12-pack for RRP $28.99.

Distributed by DB

Canned cocktails from Sundown BAY OF Plenty-based gin brand Sundown has launched three canned cocktails. The new range is available in Pink Gin with Soda, Raspberry, Rose and Rhubarb; Blood Orange Gin & Tonic; and Gin with Grapefruit, Elderflower and Soda. Each is made using only natural flavours and low sugar and the cans feature artwork by local artist, Kallola Brown.

Sundown cans (5% ABV), 330ml 10-pack RRP $27.99.

Distributed by The Premium Liquor Co.

RTD NEWS

Meet Terry…

TERRY IS a new addition to the premix category that has been designed to fill the gap between single cans and 10-packs. Terry founders, Emily Fischer and Madeleine Murray, wanted to create a gin that combined tonic and sparkling water, like the mix that they and many of their friends were enjoying at home, and to create a mixed drink that could be shared.

“We decided there was a real gap in the market for a drink that fits with how we were currently consuming alcohol,” says Fischer.

Terry comes in 750ml glass bottles with screw tops and has launched with a Vodka and Soda, and a Gin and Tonic.

Terry (7% ABV), 750ml RRP $16.99 Contact info@bringterry.co.nz

Hard kombucha by Beach Booch KIWI-MADE BEACH Booch is a 5% ABV “hard kombucha” that blends live kombucha with organic fruits and flavours.

The range is organic and vegan, with no artificial flavours or preservatives. The three launch flavours are 90 Mile Booch (Grapefruit & Ginger), Ocean Booch (Peach & Chilli) and Raglan Booch (Berry, Lemon & Sage).

Beach Booch 5% ABV, 330ml cans RRP $5.49.

Order at beachbooch.co.nz

THIS SUMMER WE’LL ALL NEED A LITTLE ISLAND TIME.

Island Gin with its lush botanical profile, featuring local Manuka Bush honey, is packaged and produced sustainably on Great Barrier Island. We’d be happy to share a little island time with you.

Email us at wholesale@islandgin.com

LEGAL NOTES

Pervinder Kaur

Associate at Harkness Henry specialising in alcohol licensing and resource management law pervinder.kaur@harkness.co.nz harknesshenry.co.nz

A suitable candidate Thinking of applying for an alcohol licence? There are some important criteria you’ll need to fulfil – the first being “suitability”, as alcohol licensing lawyer Pervinder Kaur explains…

THE CRITERIA for assessing alcohol licence applications is set out in the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 (Act). Decision-makers (district licensing committees or the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority) must take into account a range of matters, including the suitability of the applicant, when considering an application.

There is no statutory definition of suitability. As a result, various matters have been identified in the case law as relevant, including an applicant’s experience in the hospitality industry, their management ability, and personal integrity.

To refuse an application for an offlicence on grounds of suitability, the Committee has to be satisfied on the balance of probabilities that the character of the Applicant has been shown to be such that they are not likely to carry out properly the responsibilities that go with the holding of a licence.1 More recently, in Two Brothers Wholesale Ltd decision, the Authority stated that suitability is not to be considered in a vacuum and should not be construed narrowly. Any determination on suitability includes assessment of the character and reputation of the applicant, their honesty as well as consideration of the operation of the premises. Suitability is not restricted to whether the grant of 1 See variously Police v Casino Bar (No 3) Ltd [2013] NZAR 267 (HC), Re Jays LLA 994/94 (15 July 1994), Re Sheard [1996] 1 NZLR 751 (HC), and Re Nishchay’s Enterprises Ltd [2013] NZARLA 837.

30 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

It is important to keep in mind that a licence is a privilege, not a right.

a licence will result in the reduction or an increase in alcohol harm, although these issues will be relevant.

What is required is a positive finding.

That implies an onus upon the applicant to demonstrate suitability, for example, putting your best foot forward. Although, the Authority has confirmed in Two Brothers Wholesale Ltd, there is no onus on an applicant to prove their suitability at renewal.

It is important to keep in mind that a licence is a privilege, not a right. The privilege comes with obligations: to uphold the Act and the conditions of any licence. Therefore, it is essential that the applicant is honest, and of good character and reputation.

Decision-makers nowadays also require applicants for new licences to demonstrate a knowledge of the locality in which the proposed premises are situated, and any potential problems related or likely to be related with those premises. It also requires applicants to

explain how they plan to address those potential problems.

Suitability is interpreted much more widely now than it has been in the past. Where a community is vulnerable, the threshold to establish suitability is harder. It requires an applicant to demonstrate an understanding of the vulnerabilities; engaging with the agencies and community on how to address vulnerability having regard to the object of the Act, which is that the sale and supply of alcohol is undertaken safely and responsibly so the harm caused by the excessive or inappropriate consumption of alcohol is minimised.

It is not sufficient to simply set up a company and apply for a licence.

Companies are often the alter ego of their directors. It is the suitability of the directors and shareholders that is under assessment when decision-makers are evaluating an application for an alcohol licence and considering matters set out under s 105 of the Act.

NON-ALCOHOLIC NEWS

Summer with Common Good Coffee KIWI COFFEE company Common Good Coffee has launched its new Summer blend.

Founded by the folk behind Crave and Kind cafés in Auckland, Addington Coffee Co-op in Christchurch, and the Common Ground Coffee pop-up in Whanganui, Common Good Coffee supplies its range of coffees to hospitality, retail, corporates and consumers. Made with beans from Peru, Guatemala, and Mexico, the new Summer release has notes of honeysuckle and nectarine. CGC uses certifed Fairtrade organic green beans, its pricing includes a Fairtrade premium and it contributes $5 for every kilo of coffee sold to initiatives in India that work to improve healthcare, education, employment and human rights.

Retail and trade orders at commongoodcoffee.nz

Bundaberg launches new minis in NZ BUNDABERG BREWED Drinks (BBD) has launched a new Mini Can range to include their top three brews: Passionfruit, Lemon Lime & Bitters, and Pink Grapefruit.

BBD says it has extended its 200ml offering due to high consumer demand and strong sales growth in its original Ginger Beer Mini Cans.

Bundaberg Mini Cans 200ml are available now. neillcropper.com

New addition to Alchemy & Tonic NEW ZEALAND beverage company Premium Liquor has added a new flavour to its popular Alchemy & Tonic mixer range, with Rhubarb and Smashed Mandarin Tonic now available.

It joins the existing flavours: Hibiscus Pink Lemonade, Spiced Ginger Orange with Cassia, Indian Tonic Water with Kawakawa, and Blood Orange & Bitters Soda.

Alchemy & Tonic 250ml 4-pack RRP $7.99.

Distributed by The Premium Liquor Co.

The A-Series from Good Buzz TAURANGA COMPANY Good Buzz has launched a new collection of artisan kombuchas, dubbed “A-Series”. The premium range is inspired by New Zealand botanicals and uses locally-sourced fruits and native shrubs and herbs known for their wellbeing properties.

Good Buzz A-Series has launched with Hawke’s Bay Peach & Kawakawa, and Gisborne Lemon & Manuka Leaf and both are raw, unpasteurised, gluten-free and vegan.

Good Buzz founder and A-Series Brew Master, Amber Campbell, says she has been working on the new range for six months. “Our new range aims to celebrate some of the best fruit-growing regions of New Zealand. We’ve taken lemons from Gisborne and peaches from Hawke’s Bay and paired them with the uniquely Kiwi herbs of kawakawa and manuka. These unusual flavour combinations deliver two very different kombucha profiles that are slightly dryer on the palate compared to our wider range.”

Good Buzz A-Series (375ml) RRP $5.99.

Retail and trade orders at goodbuzz.nz

Red Bull sees Red THE NEW limited edition flavour from Red Bull – Red Bull® Red Edition – has launched across New Zealand.

The watermelon flavour has proved hugely popular in Australia and the United States and Red Bull recommends it for summer mocktails. Red Bull Red Edition will be available for a limited time only.

Distributed by Hancocks DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 31

WINE REPORT – SPARKLING

sparkle

A touch of

Catch-ups and celebrations will be top of mind for many Kiwis in the coming months. Make sure you’re ready, with Joelle Thomson’s guide to classic bubbles, newer arrivals and more pink options than ever before…

32 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

WINE REPORT – BUBBLES

RRP $15 – $29.99 Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C RRP $18.99 Lion

Prosecco is a new addition to the Lindauer brand and this wine is made in collaboration with Zonin1821 winery in Italy. It tastes like a glass of fresh sunshine with fruity aromas and a crisp, ripe red apple flavour. It is off dry but so well balanced by bright citrusy acidity that it finishes on a crisp dry taste. Each bottle bears the D.O.C signature (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), offering reassurance that this wine is made from grapes from the region of Veneto in north east Italy, the home of Prosecco. 17.5/20

Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C Rosé

Zardetto Prosecco D.O.C Brut

RRP $18.99 Lion

RRP $22.99 Giesen Group

Here’s a sparkling wine that’s new in more ways than one. Pink Prosecco is a new category in Italy, where it was launched just this year and it combines two of the wine world’s favourite things: pink wine and bubbles. This pink Prosecco is also one of two new additions to the famous Lindauer range, made in collaboration with Zonin1821 winery in Italy. Most Prosecco tastes fresh, fruity and light with just a hint of grapey sweet flavour and this wine is all that and more. It looks pretty, is lively in style and has a lovely dry finish with frothy, fizzy appeal. 17.5/20

Zardetto Prosecco is a new arrival to New Zealand thanks to the Giesen Group. This Italian Prosecco is light-bodied, refreshing and fruity with a dry finish. Ideal for brunch, lunch or a late afternoon glass or two. 16.5/20

Saint Clair Vicar’s Choice Sauvignon Blanc Bubbles RRP $19 Negociants

Saint Clair Family Estate is one of the pioneers of this innovative style of wine, which brings together Sauvignon Blanc and bubbles. It is a light-bodied, intensely fruity and flavoursome wine with fresh purity from the tropical fruit vibes and the lively acidity. 16.5/20

Lindauer Prosecco D.O.C Rosé is one of two new additions to the famous Lindauer range, made in collaboration with Zonin1821 winery in Italy.

2019 Sartori Rosé Prosecco RRP $23.99 Dhall & Nash

Pink Prosecco is a new category that Satori has nailed ahead of many of its competitors and this pink bubbly delivers very good value for money. It’s a lighter-bodied style of sparkling wine made in a fresh and super tasty style. Light skin contact with Pinot Noir provides the pretty pale pink colour to this dry wine, with its flavours of fresh red berries and crisp apply finish. 17.5/20 Brilla Prosecco D.O.C NV RRP $25.99 Procure

A fresh arrival on New Zealand shores, this Prosecco comes with an impressive string of awards to its name (including Gold Medal & Best Value at the China Wine & Spirits Awards, and Gold at the Catavinum World Wine and Spirits Competition) and is packaged in a beautifully decorated bottle. It’s not only pretty in packaging, but refreshingly dry and crisp in flavour too. This Prosecco is well worth the extra dollars spent. 17.5/20

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 33

WINE REPORT – BUBBLES

Zardetto Prosecco D.O.C Rosé Extra Dry

RRP $30 - $39.99

RRP $26.99 Giesen Group

Privat Brut Nature Cava Rosé

This is the second wine in the newly imported Zardetto Prosecco range. It gets its pink hue from the Pinot Noir grape, which also adds a refreshingly fruity flavour. The words ‘extra dry’ mean that the wine is medium sweet. The word ‘extra’ denotes sweetness in the wine, which is nicely balanced by the fresh crispness and acidity that the Glera grape creates in Prosecco. 16.5/20 Hunter’s MiruMiru RRP $28.99 EuroVintage

The name “MiruMiru” translates to “bubbles” in te reo Māori and has been trademarked as the name of Jane Hunter’s sparkling wines. This wine spends 12-18 months on yeast lees following its second fermentation in bottle, providing the wine with fresh brioche and sweet pastry aromas that are balanced beautifully by a full body and dry flavours. This is a delicious sparkling wine that expresses another string to Marlborough’s incredibly successful wine bow. 17.5/20

34 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

RRP $30.99 St Vincent’s Cave

This tasty pink sparkling Spanish wine comes from Bodegas Alta Alella, which uses the full-bodied red grape, Mataró, to add colour. All the grapes in this bubbly were grown organically and hand harvested and the finished wine was aged 15 months on lees after the second fermentation. That’s the same time as most champagnes, but this lovely, dry sparkling wine comes to us at a mere fraction of the price. It is bone dry in taste and bursting with delicious red berry flavours, a medium body, refreshing style and long finish. 17.5/20 Allan Scott Cecilia NV RRP $32.99 Hancocks

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes are blended into this fresh, dry sparkling wine, which is made the same way as champagne by Allan Scott in Marlborough.

Fermentation is with wild yeasts and the wine is aged for 18 months on lees in bottle where it gains depth of flavour and aromas of fresh sourdough while retaining freshness and vibrancy. 17.5/20

Quartz Reef Brut is one of New Zealand’s best bubblies and is surprisingly modestly priced, given its consistent deliciousness.

Quartz Reef Brut NV RRP $33 to $34 Vintners NZ

Quartz Reef Brut is one of New Zealand’s best bubblies and is surprisingly modestly priced, given its consistent deliciousness.

This lovely bubbly was first created by Central Otago winemaker Rudi Bauer and French winemaker Clothilde Chauvet (daughter of champagne maker Marc Chauvet). It is now owned entirely by Bauer, who expresses Central’s biggest wine strength by making this bubbly mostly from Pinot Noir (typically at least 70% of the blend) with the balance being Chardonnay. The wine is usually aged for two years on lees in bottle following its second fermentation, which adds depth, weight and delicious toasty aromas to this outstanding sparkling wine. 19/20

WINE REPORT – BUBBLES

Hunter’s MiruMiru NV Rosé RRP $37.99 EuroVintage

Jane Hunter is a big fan of pink bubbles and her winemaking team produce this one from 55% Pinot Noir, 42% Chardonnay and just 3% Pinot Meunier. This trio is the classic combination used in the Champagne region, where wines must be aged for at least 18 months prior to release, which is also the exact timeframe that Hunter’s winemaking team uses to age this lively, dry pink bubbles. It contains 6.4 grams of residual sugar per litre, which makes it dry. It’s a deliciously full-bodied expression of sparkling Pinot, with the Chardonnay adding crispness and balance. 18.5/20 Cloudy Bay Pelorus Methodé NV

Cloudy Bay Pelorus Methodé Rose NV

Nautilus Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV

RRP $38.99 Moët Hennessy

RRP $43 Negociants

This lovely, lively bubbly is made mostly from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the central Wairau Valley, which were given a short time on skins to provide a pale pink colour.

Fermentation in stainless steel preserves Pinot Noir’s signature red fruit flavours and the wine then went through its second ferment with two years of lees ageing in bottle, adding rich yeasty aromas and full bodied appeal. It is great value for money for a wine made in a classic style from a relatively young wine region. 18.5/20

Winemaker Clive Jones of Nautilus takes this bubbly extremely seriously, modelling it on Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée by ageing it for three years on yeast lees in bottle. This sees it develop rich, yeasty flavours of fresh pastry and sourdough, with developed savoury aromas and a lingering finish, thanks to balanced acidity that adds purity and length to each complex sip. This is a top-notch sparkling wine. 19/20

RRP $40 - $49.99

RRP $45 Negociants

RRP $38.99 Moët Hennessy

Quartz Reef Rosé

This wine offers outstanding value for money for a dry, full-bodied, creamy, rich, flavoursome bubbly from Marlborough.

It’s a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, both of which bring body and citrus appeal to the table in a wine that punches well above its price weight. Pelorus is typically aged on lees for two years before the bubbly is disgorged, corked and labelled.

It contains eight grams of dosage per litre, which makes it taste dry with the balance of fresh acidity adding purity and length to every sip. 18.5/20

This is full-bodied, flavoursome sparkling wine from the southernmost wine region in the world, Central Otago, where Pinot Noir rules the vineyard area and wine thinking.

This sparkling wine is 100% Pinot Noir and was made using the traditional method of sparkling winemaking with the second fermentation in the bottle. This wine is dry with a full body and lively red berry flavours. 17.5/20

RRP $41.99 Vintners NZ

2017 Huia Blanc de Blancs The 2017 Huia Blanc de Blancs is a blend of Chardonnay grapes, including the highly regarded Clone 95 and the Hawkesbury Vineyard Clone One. All grapes were handpicked, whole bunch pressed and fermented in small neutral French oak barrels where they evolved into a smooth, full-bodied and soft wine, which was matured for 14 months prior to its second fermentation in bottle. This wine is big, bold and the use of 100% Chardonnay adds both the fresh citrusy appeal and the creamy full body. It is certified organic.

17.5/20

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 35

WINE REPORT – BUBBLES

No. 1 Family Estate Rosé RRP $47 No. 1 Family Estate

Daniel le Brun has done more than most to highlight the potential in New Zealand to make outstanding sparkling wine and this tasty little pink number is one of his best.

It’s made entirely from Pinot Noir grapes which were fermented to 12.5% ABV with 7.5 grams of residual sugar per litre. The wine tastes dry and has a beautiful balance of red fruit flavours. It was aged for 18 months on lees prior to release, which has added complexity and depth to this great expression of Pinot Noir bubbly. 19/20 2018 Nautilus Vintage Rosé RRP $49 Negociants

Winemaker Clive Jones launched Nautilus Winery’s sparkling wine programme and is on a constant mission to refine the already outstanding bubbles he produces. This full-bodied but delicately impressive Rosé always comes from a single vintage and expresses the depth and richness of Pinot Noir that spends a lengthy three years on lees in bottle. This wine is super fresh with a rich body and beautiful depth of red fruit flavour, followed by zesty but subtle acidity and a long finish. One of the best bubbles made in this country. 19/20

36 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

RRP $50 and above 2018 Huia Brut Rosé RRP $54 Negociants

Winemakers Mike and Clare Allan met at Roseworthy College in South Australia and went on to found their brand, Huia Vineyards, in Marlborough. Their winery specialises in 100% organically certified wines, and bubbles fashioned after champagne. This sparkling dry Rosé is made entirely from grapes they grow. They are all hand-picked, whole bunch pressed and fermented in small neutral French oak barrels with ageing in puncheons (450 to 500 litre oak barrels) with full malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 19 months in bottle where it gains richness and depth of savoury flavour. It’s dry, medium-bodied and 100% Pinot Noir. It is certified organic. 17.5/20 Palliser Estate Griffin Methode Traditionnelle 2018 RRP $55 Negociants

Big, bold, creamy and delicious. This fullbodied sparkling wine is made the same way as champagne, using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes as its raw ingredients, both entirely hand harvested prior to fermentation. The Chardonnay component adds creamy appeal thanks to partial malolactic fermentation and the finished wine was aged for two years on lees in bottle and given six grams of dosage at disgorgement, which makes it dry, fresh and long on flavour. 18.5/20

Champagne Lallier R016 RRP $59.99 Regional Wines & Spirits

Lallier R016 tastes like hot toast with cultured butter, green apple purée and a fresh je ne sais quoi. Like all great champagnes, this wine is full-bodied and deliciously lingering in taste. It’s a blend of 56% Pinot Noir and 44% Chardonnay, fermented with Lallier yeasts and given partial malolactic fermentation. It’s a blend of 86% of wines from the 2016 vintage with 14% of wines from 2010, 2012 and 2014. This wine is dry, with 7 grams dosage per litre and, because the 2016 harvest was a significantly smaller one than usual, the concentration and richness of flavour is pronounced and over delivers on value for money, given the high quality of this bubbly. 19/20 Champagne André Clouet RRP $62.99 Dhall & Nash

André Clouet Champagne is an outstanding full-bodied, dry and characterful bubbly from the Champagne region in France and a producer that dates back to 1741. It’s a rich and flavoursome style made entirely with the Pinot Noir grape, grown in the villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay and aged on lees for four years before release. This ageing is significantly longer than the minimum 18 months that’s stipulated in the Champagne region.

It’s dry, toasty and savoury with a long, refreshingly crisp finish. Also available in half bottles. 18.5/20

WINE REPORT – BUBBLES

This timely new Cuvée Adele from No. 1 Family Estate was released in November this year and is an exceptional wine.

Champagne Ayala Brut Majeur NV RRP $95 Negociants

Ayala Brut Majeur Champagne is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. This wine spends an average of three years on lees, which lends body and a brioche character to the palate. It has a light golden colour, with fine bubbles. The nose is open and expressive, with delicate yet complex notes of citrus, white flowers and apple. The palate is elegant and precise, with fine citrus notes, good acidity and a long finish. 17.5/20 Champagne Lallier Les Sous Grand Cru RRP $105.99 Regional Wines & Spirits

Champagne Lallier Les Sous is a sensational 100% Pinot Noir from a single Grand Cru vineyard in the village of Aÿ in the Champagne region. It’s planted on a sloping hillside of chalk soils where the altitude provides cool nights to retain freshness and also ensures plentiful sunshine to aid ripeness during the day.

Like most top champagnes, this bubbly is aged for longer than the minimum 18 months. In this case, it spends over three years in the bottle. It is totally dry with four grams dosage per litre, which is balanced beautifully by the weight and body that Pinot Noir brings to this gorgeously complex blend. 19/20

Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée NV RRP $125 Negociants

Champagne Bollinger’s Special Cuvée more than lives up its reputation as being absolutely fabulous. Its richness of flavour is supported by the depth that Pinot Noir (the majority grape in the blend) brings, adding structure, a full body and depth of toasty richness to every sip. The Chardonnay in this blend adds length and crispness with citrusy complexity. The wine is impeccably balanced, thanks to both grapes and the extra care and attention to detail in the winemaking process, which includes a portion of barrel fermentation (always in older oak). This encourages a gentle, slow oxidative fermentation. The finished wine also spends three years ageing in bottle, which is double the minimum legal ageing time for the Champagne region – and ensures that every bottle lives up to being a special cuvée. Bollinger’s Special Cuvée is dry, toasty, savoury and rich with elegance to burn. 19/20

2016 Cuvée Adele RRP $270 No. 1 Family Estate

This timely new Cuvée Adele was released in November this year and is an exceptional wine, as the price tag indicates. ‘Adele’ was first made by Daniel le Brun in 2014 as a tribute to his wife. It’s a blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, fermented to dryness with 3.14 grams of residual sugar and an impressive 42 months ageing on lees, which provides a smooth, fresh and creamy bubbly. Lively bakery aromas, full-bodied depth and a long finish are all part of the beautiful balance in this refreshingly complex bubbly. 18.5/20

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 84.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 37

TOP PICKS – ROSÉ

Raise a glass to Rosé It’s the pink drink that Kiwis can’t get enough of – Joelle Thomson rounds up some excellent Rosés to add to shelves and lists this summer…

2021 Palliser Martinborough Rosé

2021 Whitehaven Rosé

2021 Moy Hall Rosé

RRP $29.99 Negociants

RRP $23.99 Whitehaven

RRP $26.99 Moy Hall

Palliser Estate is a modestly sized winery making a big splash with its incredibly popular Rosé. Made 100% from Pinot Noir, it tastes intensely fruity with flavours of strawberry, raspberry and a creamy note on the finish. It’s a dry wine with a light body and crisp acidity thanks to the Pinot grape, which adds freshness and length to every sip. 17.5/20

Bone dry, medium body, super fresh, 100% Pinot Noir. This is one of the most popular wines in the Whitehaven stable and for good reason. It builds on its successful style each year with a continuing evolution of dryness (this vintage contains 2.5 grams of residual sugar, putting it firmly in the dry camp) and with a cool temperature ferment, the fruit freshness and purity shine in each sip of summer berry-like flavours. Pristine acidity adds length and depth. 17.5/20

Moy Hall is an eight-hectare vineyard in Martinborough with a restaurant and cellar door on site, which is where most of the wine produced is sold by owneroperators Phil and Carolyn McArthur on incredibly busy weekends. Winemaker Phil has blended two grapes to make this dry Rosé: 88% Pinot Noir (all handpicked, gently crushed, and cool pressed) and 12% Syrah (also handpicked and wholebunch pressed). The flavours here are dry, fresh red summer berries and cranberries with a layer of spice on the finish. 17.5/20

2020 Greystone Organic Rosé

2021 Redmetal Vineyards Cabernet Franc Rosé

2020 Ata Rangi Rosé

RRP $23.99 Red+White Cellars

Greystone is one of North Canterbury’s great wineries, situated on the slopes of the limestone-rich hills in Omihi. All grapes in Greystone wines are 100% certified organic with BioGro NZ and all are estate grown: two incredibly important steps in Greystone’s high quality wines. This pretty, pale pink Rosé is made from 100% organic Pinot Noir, which provides flavours of ripe red berries, plum, cream and brioche and has lingering, focused acidity that adds freshness. 18.5/20 38 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

RRP $25 Red + White Cellar

Here’s one for lovers of dry Rosés.

Winemaker Grant Edmonds makes this wine from Cabernet Franc grapes, which are given four hours of skins contact to provide a light pick-up of colour. The wine is fermented to full dryness in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruit flavours and freshness and then aged on lees for four months to provide depth and build texture in the wine. A lively, youthful wine with savoury red berry flavours. 17.5/20

RRP $25.99 EuroVintage

An interesting pink wine made using grapes from Martinborough (64%) and Hawke’s Bay (36%), with each region bringing structure, fruity appeal and power to the wine. It’s also a blend of grape varieties with 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 16% Pinot Noir, 16% Syrah and 4% Cabernet Franc.

It is dry, fresh and medium-bodied with distinctive spicy notes from the quirky blend of varieties. 18.5/20

TOP PICKS – ROSÉ

2021 Ara Single Estate Rosé

2020 Mission Estate Rosé

2021 Main Divide Rosé

RRP $18.99 Giesen Group

RRP $17 Mission Estate

RRP $20.99 EuroVintage

Red fruit flavours of strawberry and raspberry combine with peachy notes in this dry Marlborough Rosé, which is made from 100% Pinot Noir. Its fruity flavours make it accessibly appealing to a wide audience. 16.5/20

This lively, refreshing and smooth pink wine from New Zealand’s oldest winery is light-bodied, off dry in flavour and tastes of blackcurrant leaf and nectarine. It’s made to drink now or within the next two to three years. 16.5/20

This is the third release of Main Divide’s delicious dry Rosé from North Canterbury, where warm days and cool nights add bright fruit flavour balanced by refreshing acidity. A pale salmon colour, this wine is full of peach, summer berries and red plums all mingling in a tasty fruit salad.

Love the dry style. 17.5/20

2021 Trinity Hill Molly’s Block Rosé RRP $39 Lion

This dry, refreshing Rosé is a brand new addition to the Trinity Hill wine stable.

It’s made from 100% Syrah grapes grown in Moteo Pa, a sub-region of Hawke’s Bay, where vines grow on stony soils.

The grapes were pressed gently for a brief time to capture a pretty, light-pink colour and add depth of fruit flavour. Each sip tastes like a reminder of a warm, freshly picked red-fleshed plums. 17.5/20

Pink wine continues to grow in leaps and bounds, not just in New Zealand but around the world.

Prosecco is now allowed to be pink (more in our Bubbles Report on pg 32) and overall Rosé sales now outstrip white wine sales in France.

2021 Grant Burge Ink

2021 Wairau River Estate Rosé

2021 Giesen Blush Riesling

RRP $18.99 Hancocks

RRP $20 Federal Merchants

RRP $15.99 Giesen Group

This Australian pinkie reflects our transTasman neighbour’s highly skilled abilities with Shiraz and Cabernet. These two grapes are blended in Grant Burge Barossa Ink pink wine, which is bright in colour, fruity in flavour and a reminder of all the deliciousness of summer berries with a peachy appeal on the finish. It’s off dry and refreshing. 17/20

Dry, refreshing and full of flavour. This Marlborough Rosé is made entirely from Pinot Noir, which was harvested in the cool morning hours to preserve fruit flavour and freshness. The grapes were gently pressed to extract minimal colour and the flavours here are all about summer berries with a twist – it has a definite and delicious taste of fresh watermelon on the finish. 17.5/20

Riesling provides the delicious, fresh flavours of Granny Smith apples, lime juice and honey in this clever blend while Syrah provides the colour. It’s medium dry in taste with super succulent flavours and an intensely aromatic finish that lingers sensationally. This is a superb off-beat pale pink wine that tastes incredibly refreshing year round, but is excellent on a sunny day. 17.5/20

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 39

TOP PICKS – ROSÉ

2020 Villa Maria Single Vineyard The Attorney Rosé is a brand new addition to the Villa Maria stable and superbly dry in style.

2020 Zephyr MKI

2021 Astrolabe Marlborough Rosé

2021 Coal Pit Rosé

RRP $28 Hancocks

RRP $28 Astrolabe Wines

RRP $34 Coal Pit Wine

This stunning Rosé rates on all counts.

Flavours of watermelon, redcurrant, cranberry and freshly crushed macadamia add layers to a wine that tastes dry, lingers with every sip and makes for a memorable summer pink drop. It is made from certified organic grapes that were grown on the Brink Block Vineyard, which is Marlborough’s oldest certified organic vineyard. This wine is pale salmon in colour and incredibly refreshing. 19/20

Two popular grapes go into this bone dry Rosé: Pinot Noir (55%) and Pinot Gris (45%). Together, these two Pinots were lightly pressed to extract a pretty pink hue for a fully dry wine with flavours of candied strawberries and crisp red apples in a light-bodied style. The grapes were grown in the Awatere Valley and the Kekerengu Coast, both south of Blenheim, in a climate that is a little cooler, which provides fresh acidity to balance the purity of fruit flavours. 17.5/20

Aromas of wild strawberries, concentrated raspberries and watermelon all lead to a wine that tastes like a glass full of ripe, fresh summer berries. The purity of pristine southern acidity adds depth to each flavoursome sip. All grapes in this wine were handpicked from the small Coal Pit Vineyard in the Gibbston Valley – a beautiful, elevated site that is planted mostly in Pinot Noir with a small amount of Sauvignon Blanc. Volumes are small, all wines are made on site and this Rosé shows pink wine in a great light. 19/20

2020 Villa Maria Single Vineyard The Attorney Rosé

2021 Astrolabe Comelybank Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé

2020 Clearview Black Reef Blush Rosé

RRP $29.99 Villa Maria

RRP $32 Astrolabe Wines

RRP $21.99 Clearview Estate

A brand new addition to the Villa Maria stable and superbly dry in style. This wine hails from The Attorney Vineyard in Marlborough, which was converted and fully Biogro certified as organic in 2012.

It highlights Rosé at a higher quality level with more body, more depth of flavour and a multi-layered spectrum of tastes ranging from dried cranberry to fresh Omega plums with their depth of flavour and lively freshness. Medium-bodied and has great length with every sip. 17.5/20

Comelybank Vineyard Rosé is made from grapes grown by Jeff and Vanessa Hammond in the Waihopai Valley. This wine blends Pinot Noir (85%) with Pinot Gris (15%), which both contribute great balance and complexity to a dry style of Rosé. Its flavours include fresh almonds, dried cranberries, an earthy note and a hint of creaminess in texture, which comes from time spent on lees post fermentation. This wine is bone dry and refreshing. 17.5/20

This is one of the most popular Rosés in New Zealand and bucks the trend of pale Rosés as it is made from a blend of grapes with thicker skins, which provide its deep ruby colour. The main grape here is Chambourcin, an old French grape variety that is unusual to find in New Zealand but has proven so popular that Clearview Estate has planted more to meet the demand of Black Reef Blush fans. This wine is just off dry with around five grams of residual sugar and tastes super refreshing and fruity with a tasty tannic grip that balances its finish. 18.5/20

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 84.

40 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

OPINION – WINE

Joelle Thomson

Journalist, wine writer and author joellethomson.com

On stony soil Gimblett Gravels is one of New Zealand’s most coveted wine growing sites, and the latest Annual Vintage Selection is a showcase of the district’s strengths, as Joelle Thomson explains.

IT’S BEEN 12 years since the Gimblett Gravels Winegrowers Association first released an Annual Vintage Selection and it’s been a fascinating ride, as every year of top 12 wines reveals different strengths to this region in Hawke’s Bay. There are 800 hectares of grapes planted in Gimblett Gravels Wine Growing District, give or take a hectare or two, which makes it more than worthy of being called a region. It may not compare in size to Marlborough with its tens of thousands of hectares of Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s fair to say that winemakers with plantings on “the Gravels” have little to no aspiration to make high volumes of wine from their stony vineyards.

Instead, they look to some of the world’s greatest and smallest wine regions, such as Saint Joseph with its 600 hectares, nearly all Syrah, in France’s northern Rhône Valley; or to Barbaresco with its 682 hectares devoted entirely to Nebbiolo in north-west Italy.

The region has also marketed itself impressively by branding its wines as grown on gravelly land that bears more than a passing resemblance to many of the world’s great red wine appellations, most notably in the Rhône Valley and Bordeaux.

Gimblett Gravels sits on the base of a meandering old riverbed and is named after an early settler, William John Gimblett, who emigrated to New Zealand in 1878 and later bought the land that now forms a large part of the district.

42 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

First planted with red grapes in 1981, the Gimblett Gravels has become synonymous with impressive reds.

Of its roughly 800 hectares, 90% is planted in red grapes today. Merlot leads, making up 35% of the region, followed by Syrah with 20%, Cabernet Sauvignon with 15%, Malbec with 7%, Cabernet Franc with 4% and smaller plantings of Grenache, Montepulciano and Tempranillo.

Interestingly, the grape varieties planted on the Gimblett Gravels have evolved away from the great red hope of Cabernet Sauvignon; it remains important but has declined massively.

These days, Syrah has filled its shoes with slow but steady growth and incredibly impressive results.

As always, where classic blended reds are concerned, Cabernet remains enormously respected but nearly always as an ingredient rather than a solo performer. The wines are all the better for it. The best winemakers are adventurously using more Cabernet Franc, Malbec and even, on occasion, a little Tempranillo, all of which add depth of colour, smoothness to the palate and impressive approachability.

The wines in this year’s Annual Vintage Selection are just that: approachable.

While they can and will undoubtedly age well, they also drink beautifully now – which is no mean feat for such powerful big reds. If investing in a bottle or a case appeals, now’s the time to do it.

The Gimblett Gravels 2019 Annual Vintage Selection Blended reds

2019 Elephant Hill Hieronymus RRP $125 2019 Esk Valley Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot RRP $19.99 2019 Esk Valley Great Dirt River Gravels Merlot Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon RRP $70 2019 Mission Estate Jewelstone Antoine RRP $50 2019 Pask Declaration Merlot RRP $50 2019 Squawking Magpie The Nest RRP $49.95 2019 Trinity Hill The Gimblett RRP $40 Syrah

2019 Craggy Range Le Sol RRP $150 2019 Craggy Range Syrah Gimblett Gravels RRP $39.95 2019 Mission Estate Jewelstone Syrah RRP $50 2019 Smith & Sheth Cru Heretaunga Syrah RRP $40 2019 Squawking Magpie Stoned Crow Syrah RRP $49.95 Notes: The wines were independently selected

by Andrew Caillard MW. All are released with the exception of the Elephant Hill Hieronymus, which will be out in May 2022.

WINE NEWS

Vintage 2021 shines at Marlborough Wine Show NEARLY HALF of the 18 trophies awarded at this year’s Marlborough Wine Show went to wines produced this year, highlighting the quality of the region’s 2021 vintage.

Among the seven trophies won by 2021 wines, Saint Clair’s Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021 was named QuayConnect Champion Wine of the Show.

More than 540 wines were judged by a panel of 10 in October, with Chief Judge Ben Glover describing the line-up of wines as exceptional. “The 2021 and 2020 wines were stunning. It was an exceptional show to judge. The Pinots out of 2020 were just beautiful and the 2021 Sauvignon Blancs were out of this world. The concentration, the poise, precision and depth of styles showed the quality of this year’s vintage,” he said.

This year’s Marlborough Wine Show also saw the highest ever number of gold medals, with 53 awarded several weeks earlier.

The Marlborough Museum Legacy Award is awarded to the wine producer with the highest scores from three vintages within a 10-year period and this went to Framingham Select Riesling, 2011, 2016 and 2019. Ben Glover says this was an exceptional category to judge and the winning wine was a special example of Marlborough Riesling.

Due to COVID restrictions, the planned Celebration Lunch was cancelled and trophy winners were instead informed and visited personally by Wine Marlborough. The Board of Wine Marlborough says a Lifetime Achievement Award will be announced at a suitable occasion in the future.

Full results at marlboroughwineshow.com Trophy Winning Wines – Marlborough Wine Show 2021

Champion Wine of the Show Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021 Champion Sparkling Wine Tohu Rewa Methode Traditionnelle Blancs de Blancs 2015 Champion Sauvignon Blanc Saint Clair Wairau Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021 Champion Alternate Style Sauvignon Blanc Sound of White ‘Barrel Fermented’ Sauvignon Blanc 2019 Champion Chardonnay Isabel Estate Marlborough Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2020 Champion Chardonnay 2019 & Older Mount Riley 17 Valley Chardonnay 2019 Champion Pinot Gris S toneleigh Latitude Pinot Gris 2021 Champion Riesling W airau River Estate Summer Riesling 2021

Champion Gewürztraminer Lawson’s Dry Hills Gewürztraminer 2019 Champion Sweet Wine Forrest Botrytised Riesling 2018 Champion Other White Varietal Wairau River Reserve Grüner Veltliner 2021 Champion Pinot Noir Saint Clair Pioneer Block 15 Strip Block Pinot Noir 2020 Champion Pinot Noir 2019 & older Marisco Vineyards The King’s Wrath Pinot Noir 2019 Champion Other Red Varietal Wairau River Reserve Syrah 2020 Champion Rosé Riverby Estate Rosé 2021 Best Organic Wine G iesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Pinot Noir 2017 Wine of Provenance Brancott Estate Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Villa Maria fine wines released as Single Vineyard Collection VILLA MARIA has released its new vintage fine wine range with 12 wines that the winery says represent the best vineyards of the Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne, Auckland, and Marlborough.

“The Single Vineyard collection represents the most regionally and stylistically diverse fine wine portfolio in the country,” says Matthew Deller MW, Villa Maria’s Chief Global Sales and Marketing Officer. “The collection takes wine lovers on a journey through New Zealand, and with small quantities of these exceptional wines produced, demand is expected to be strong locally and internationally.”

Last year’s release of Villa Maria’s Keltern and Ihumatao 2019 Chardonnays sold out in record time and Villa Maria says that with the collection destined for premium fine wine shops and luxury restaurants around the world, global demand is again predicted to outweigh supply. The iconic Villa Maria Ngakirikiri 2018 also joins this year’s Single Vineyard collection and is made from the very best vineyards of the Gimblett Gravels appellation.

In previous years, Villa Maria has launched its Single Vineyard wines as each is bottled and matured, however all Single Vineyard wines will now be launched collectively on an annual basis on 1 November.

The 2021 collection includes:

• Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Seaspray Sauvignon Blanc 2021, RRP $29.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Taylors Pass Sauvignon Blanc 2021, RRP $29.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Southern Clays Sauvignon Blanc 2020, RRP $29.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Seddon Pinot Gris 2020, RRP $29.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Hawkes Bay Keltern Chardonnay 2020, RRP $79.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Gisborne McDiarmid Hill Chardonnay 2020, RRP $49.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Auckland Ihumatao Chardonnay 2020, RRP $49.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Taylors Pass Chardonnay 2020, RRP $49.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough The Attorney Pinot Noir Rosé 2020, RRP $29.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Taylors Pass Pinot Noir 2019, RRP $59.99 • Villa Maria Single Vineyard Marlborough Seddon Pinot Noir 2019, RRP $59.99 • Villa Maria Gimblett Gravels Ngakirikiri 2018, RRP $150 Distributed by Villa Maria

44 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

WINE NEWS

Mission Estate launches Gaia Project MISSION ESTATE has launched a new sustainable wine range under the label The Gaia Project, celebrating its 170-year commitment to the environment.

The Hawke’s Bay winery is a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand and says it is 63% more water efficient and 58% more energy efficient than other wineries of the same size in 2021, making it one of the country’s most energy and water efficient wineries.

The wine packaging uses labels that are made with 30% recycled content, environmentally friendly printing techniques, and bottles made from lightweight glass. The glass also contains a portion of recycled content and the cartons contain 73% recycled content, which is sourced from local sustainably managed forestry suppliers. Transport emissions are minimised as wines are bottled, labelled and stored at Mission.

The Gaia Project wines include Rosé, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Syrah.

Mission Estate Marketing Manager, Jo Pearson, says they help to tell Mission Estate’s environmental story. “With these wines, we’re telling consumers about our sustainability journey so far, and hope to encourage everyone to do their part for the environment. We’ve used icons on the

front label to tell consumers what we’re doing to play our role, helping them make a better choice.”

Mission Estate The Gaia Project wines are RRP $22.

Distributed by Mission Estate

SHOWCASE

Zardetto Prosecco – the new game changer ITALIAN WINE company Zardetto was among the first to specialise in Prosecco – the world-famous Italian wine. Now, these unique wines from this acclaimed producer in Italy’s north-east are available in New Zealand through distributor Giesen Group.

Glera grapes thrive in the most historical Prosecco area: the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG. Zardetto is located in the heart of this magic terroir and has been a cornerstone of this excellence for many decades.

Zardetto’s new range expresses a special liveliness, extraordinary freshness and full aroma that truly brings the authentic Italian taste to life.

Zardetto D.O.C Brut

A straw-yellow wine with greenish reflections. Rich, fine and persistent perlage.

Crafted from Glera grapes (85%) and Pinot Blanc– Chardonnay grapes (15%) grown in the provinces of Venice and Treviso.

Aroma: Fresh, floral, fruity with hints of acacia flowers, apricot and green apple.

Taste: Fresh and intense.

Pleasantly acidic thanks to the citrus note enhanced by the flavour of green apple.

Ideal pairing: Perfect as an aperitif, it is also excellent throughout the whole meal.

Also available in 200ml bottles.

Zardetto Sparkling Rosé Extra Dry

A soft pink wine with delicate purple nuances, made from Raboso Veronese grapes grown in selected Veneto vineyards.

Aroma: Fresh and fruity with hints of violets, marasca cherry and blackberry.

Taste: Soft and delicately fruity. Good acidity and intense flavours of cherry, blackcurrant and blackberry. Velvety mouthfeel due to the tannic component.

Rich, fine and persistent perlage.

Ideal pairing: Great as an aperitif and excellent in cocktails. Enjoy with a wide variety of foods.

Zardetto D.O.C Prosecco Rosé Extra Dry

A pale, delicate pink wine with violet hues. Made from the Glera grape, with up to 15% Pinot Noir sourced from various vineyards in the Prosecco D.O.C region, in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Aroma: Fruity nose of golden apple, white peach and small berries, intermingled with floral notes of spring flowers.

Taste: Exuberant, lively and fragrant on the palate. Refreshing acidity well balanced with fruitiness to create full, enveloping and almost creamy sensations.

A modern trendy aperitif for discerning palates and a versatile companion to a variety of foods.

Ideal pairing: Perfect with avocado and prawn salad, cream cheese tarts and raw shellfish.

Zardetto is available through Giesen Group on 03 344 6270 or giesen.co.nz

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 45

WINE NEWS

NZIWS judging postponed to Feb 2022 JUDGING FOR the New Zealand International Wine Show has been postponed until February 2-4, 2022 due to the ongoing COVID restrictions in Auckland and neighbouring regions.

The NZIWS, now in its 17th year, has been the biggest wine competition in the country since its inception. Judging was due to take place in Auckland from 13-15 September, led by Chief Judge Bob Campbell MW and had been rescheduled twice due to the effects of the current Delta outbreak.

With many of the 24 senior judges being winemakers, organisers say they are hoping for a normal vintage (which usually commences later in February or in early March), allowing a full complement to attend the re-scheduled event.

Wine Show Convenor Kingsley Wood says that they are committed to completing the 2021 NZ International Wine Show and have received a record number of international entries. He says most of the overseas judging samples have been received and are safely stored for the February event.

All the new dates are online at nziws. co.nz and Wood says that there are now opportunities to enter wines that may not have been available on the original dates.

The Trophy Awards Event was yet to be confirmed when Drinksbiz went to print.

Entry details at nziws.co.nz

Penfolds Chief Winemaker Peter Gago

The Penfolds 2021 Australia Collection available now THE 2021 release of The Penfolds Australia Collection is now available and marks the 70th anniversary of Penfolds flagship Grange.

After 70 years of unbroken vintage releases, the South Australian wine has become a heritage icon renowned by collectors the world over for its unique Australian identity, consistency, and proven ageing potential.

“The original aspiration for Grange was to create a red wine ‘capable of staying alive for a minimum of 20 years’,” says Penfolds Chief Winemaker, Peter Gago.

“Tell that to sexagenarian vintages such as ’52, ’53, ’55 and ’62! Stunningly drinkable in 2021! And modern Grange vintages such as ’08, ’10 and ’16 patiently await judgement in 2071!”

Beyond Grange, the wines within the 2021 Collection offer multi-region and multi-vineyard blends, single-region wines and a single-vineyard wine.

SHOWCASE

Quartz Reef’s new look for summer FROM OUR inception Quartz Reef have championed a philosophy of biodynamics and organics. As a team we work in harmony with nature to create sensory wines and experiences that capture the purest expressions of our place. Combining old world traditions with the insight and innovation of the new to realise the beauty and potential of our single vineyard estate in the sub-region of Bendigo.

“For us the highest priority is being good custodians of the land and growing grapes and making wine in a responsible manner. We want to show that you can look after the land and ensure it is in better shape for the next generation while making great wine at the same time,” says winemaker Rudi Bauer.

We are delighted to release the first of our fresh look labels in time for summer.

Depicting our unique vineyard home and landscape of Bendigo, overlooking the beauty of Mt Pisa and beyond to the Southern Alps, we acknowledge and honour our kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga for land and people.

For distribution inquiries contact lianne@quartzreef.co.nz

46 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

The Penfolds Australia Collection 2021 includes:

• 2017 Grange, RRP $979.99 • 2019 Yattarna, RRP $169.99 • 2019 RWT Bin 798 Barossa Valley Shiraz, RRP $249.99 • 2018 St Henri Shiraz RRP $139.99 • 2019 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz RRP $99.99 • 2019 Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon RRP $99.99 • 2019 Bin 150 Marananga Shiraz RRP $99.99 • 2019 Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz RRP $49.99 • 2019 Bin 138 Barossa Valley Shiraz Grenache Mataro RRP $49.99 • 2021 Bin 51 Eden Valley Riesling RRP $42.99 • 2019 Bin 28 Shiraz RRP $41.99 Distributed by Asahi Beverages NZ

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TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

GET THE

LOWDOWN There’s more choice than ever this summer, with a wave of new zero and non-alc beers on the market alongside the ever popular hazies, sours and everything in-between…

48 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

B EER & CIDER REPORT

Note: Beers and ciders are listed in order of % ABV

BEER Mack Freeze Alc-Free Pilsner 0.0% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $14.99 Q Liquid

Norwegian brewery Isbjorn is the northernmost brewery in the world and knows a thing or two about brewing clean beers. Their Mack Freeze is a gluten-free, alcohol-free, super pale lager that tastes like one of the glaciers that surround the brewery: pure and clear. A crisp beer with a good balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness.

Steinlager Zero 0.0%* ABV, 330ml 12-pack RRP $21.99 (available for on-premise now, for retail from 17 Jan) Lion

Local brand Steinlager has entered the 0% category with a zero alcohol beer that is still distinctly a Steinlager. The same crisp hops and easy-drinking balance are there, but the absence of alcohol has given it an almost Japanese-style flavour. (*contains less than 0.05% alc/vol) Bach Brewing All Day Non-Alc IPA <0.5% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $19.99 Bach Brewing

Brewed to less than 0.5% alc/vol, Bach Brewing's excellent non-alcoholic IPA is light on the palate, full of tropical hop character and has the long-lasting flavour you’d expect from an IPA. ZERO vs NO-ALC BEERS

“0%” beer: the beer must have less than 0.05% ABV. “No-alcohol beer”: under New Zealand regulations, the beer must be 1.15% ABV or less.

Garage Project Tiny <0.5% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $18.99 Garage Project

Good things come in tiny packages, right?

Craft legends Garage Project have turned their attention to brewing a contender for the no-alc category and the result is Tiny.

It’s super light, crisp and very drinkable.

Brewed with pilsner malt, golden naked oats, Mosaic, Strata and Simcoe hops, Tiny is specially fermented to give the big, juicy hop character you’d expect from a Hazy IPA, but without the alcohol. Recommended.

Sawmill Bare Beer <1.15% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $15.99 Sawmill Brewery

This is Sawmill’s offering in the rapidly growing “no-alcohol” beer space and it still has all the hallmarks of a classic Sawmill ale. The bottle has the same classy look, the same satisfying weight, and all the pale ale flavour notes are there.

It lacks the alcohol kick at the back of the throat of course, but that’s about the only difference. A great addition to the local range of no-alc beers.

Big Drop Brewing Paradiso IPA 0.5% ABV, 375ml RRP $4.99 + 4-pack $18.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Here’s an ultra-low alcohol drop that can hold its own against any brew in any category. In fact, it was named World’s Best No & Low Alcohol Speciality Beer in the 2020 World Beer Awards.

The Paradiso IPA pours light and golden and the flavour profile contains a bunch of soft lemon. An excellent midday beer when the temperature is up; it’s thirstquenching, moreish and won’t derail your afternoon’s work.

Big Drop Brewing Pine Trail Pale Ale 0.5% ABV, 375ml RRP $4.99 + 4-pack $18.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Big Drop began in the UK with a brewery devoted to very low alcohol brews and its award-winning brews show that they’re onto something. This is a clear, crisp pale ale with waves of pine and lime hop characteristics. A clear winner for those looking for a guilt-free alternative.

Big Drop Brewing Galactic Milk Stout 0.5% ABV, 375ml RRP $4.99 + 4-pack $18.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Most of the low and zero alcohol beers you encounter are takes on lagers or pale ales. Big Drop’s Galactic Milk Stout bucks that trend in all the best ways and this year won the title of World’s Best Low & No Alcohol Beer in a tightly fought category at the World Beer Awards.

Pouring black and velvety in the glass, it has all the classic stout flavours of malts and chocolate, and there’s a good hit of coffee, particularly in the after-taste.

The stout aromas more than make up for the absence of the alcohol – an absence often painfully obvious in lighter ales. A delicious and inventive addition to the category. Recommended.

Big Drop Brewing Uptown Lager 0.5% ABV, 375ml RRP $4.99 + 4-pack $18.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Big Drop’s Uptown Lager is an easy drinking, elegant lager with a full flavour that belies its low-alcohol status. It has floral hop aromas with a brush of caramel and is light and herbal on the first sip, with a touch of spice and a hint of citrus to complete the balance. Other than the stylish red can, its other major selling point is that it’s only 39 calories per serve – about a third of a regular beer.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 49

BEER & CIDER REPORT

vandeStreek Playground IPA 0.5% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Fittingly for a beer called “Playground” the main vibe of vandeStreek’s IPA is fun.

The can is a riot of child-like drawings and the flavours of the beer are light, friendly and drinkable. Playground is a citrusy IPA that clocks in at less than 0.5% ABV. Hoppy and drinkable. vandeStreek Grapefruit IPA 0.5% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99 Long Breeze Distributors

Dutch brewery vandeStreek was founded by brothers Sander and Ronald van de Streek, back in 2013 after they’d started brewing as a hobby. This is the second in their no-alc offering and balances fruity, fresh hop flavour with the bitter citrus hit of grapefruit. Refreshing and crisp. A surefire winner for those looking for a non-alc option this summer.

8-Wired LO-FI 2% ABV, 440ml RRP $4.99 8-Wired Brewing

8-Wired fans will be delighted to see a lower in alcohol option for summer with the new LO-FI. It’s the result of some experimentation with some of the brewery’s most popular sour beers with a low alcohol spin. Tart, refreshing and bursting with citrus flavours from the dry hops. As the 8-Wired team says: “Pumped up on flavour, low on regret.”

50 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

McCashin First Light Low Carb Lager 4.2% ABV, 330ml 12-pack RRP $21.99 McCashin’s

Hamovniki Vienna 4.5% ABV, 470ml RRP $4.50 Q Liquid

Nelson brewers McCashin’s have a lager here that’s as pale and refreshing as a dip in the Pelorus River. Presenting in a clear bottle, the drop is super light and crisp, but still has plenty of tasty hop characteristics and impressive body for a low-carb offering. Highly sessionable at 4.2% - both for the alcohol content and the waistline.

Moscow Brewing Company founded the Hamovniki brand and built their factory in Moscow 150 years ago. At the end of the 19th century they received official status as the beer supplier to His Imperial Majesty’s Court. Their Vienna style lager arrives in an eye-catching, tall, tapered green glass affair. The beer is a light, malty lager brewed with German hops for a floral aroma and soft bitterness.

Deep Creek Hey Pina

Monteith’s Breakers Low Carb IPA

4.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Hancocks

4.5% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $15.99 + 12-pack RRP $26.99 DB

The Silverdale brewers bring the party with Hey Pina – a pineapple, raspberry, lime sour bursting with fruit flavour.

Pouring peach-coloured in the glass, the flavour profile is a riotous fruit salad. Both pineapple and raspberry have sour notes mingling with their sweetness and the lime is the finale, cutting across the finish with a sour swoop.

Deep Creek Berrylicious 4.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Hancocks

This bright pink drop looks like it might appeal to the sweeter fruit cider crowd, but beware, this has a bit of backbone that might surprise lovers of pink drinks.

This fruited sour beer is a mixture of raspberries, cherries and blackberries, but the sweetness is dialled back by a good hit of sourness at the end. A tart and fun beer from Deep Creek, recommend it to fruit lovers who want to try something a bit wilder.

Monteith’s IPAs have become a staple of the mass-appeal craft-style category of beers and now they have an option that’s lighter on the carbs and lighter on the calories. The familiar Monteith’s IPA hop flavours are still there, but dialled back a little. It still drinks as easily as the regular IPA but has 70% less carbs and comes in at only 100 calories per serve.

McLeod’s Sunset Belgian Wit 4.9% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 McLeod’s Brewery

McLeod’s nod to a neo-classic style is made with Belgian yeast, wheat, malted oats and coriander. There's a Northland twist with fresh, local hand-zested local Seville and Navel oranges. There’s spicy orange and fruit on the nose followed by a characteristically soft, tart and refreshing palate.

B EER & CIDER REPORT

8-Wired Luppolo

Panhead Sandman Hazy

Badass Festbier

5% ABV, 330ml RRP $4.99 8-Wired Brewing

5.2% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $21.99 Lion

5.6% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Badass Beverages

This is 8-Wired’s crisp, hoppy take on a classic Italian Pilsner. It’s generously hopped with modern German varieties Perle, Callista and Saphir to provide a subtle layer of citrus and punchy stone fruit, tempered with pleasant bitterness.

Enter the Sandman and enter summer.

Panhead’s take on the hazys sweeping the nation (and the world) is a tasty, citrusy number that speaks of warm days on the way and long nights in the backyard.

There is a touch of haze but it’s not the full-on sandstorm some have gone for – just enough to soften and give a chill vibe to proceedings.

Newcomer Badass Beverages are taken with the European idea of seasonal beers for holidays and festivities. Enter...Badass Festbier, a German Holiday Lager that delights with five specialty malts that give it “a full body, a wonderful golden amber colour, and an enticing complexity”. We found the malts to impart an almost smoky characteristic, while German hops give a classic floral/spicy hop profile. With its funky can, this could be a winner at a craft beer party – or an ideal festive brew for Christmas Day.

8-Wired Maverick 5% ABV, 440ml RRP $7.99 8-Wired Brewing

It pours jet black and looks forbidding but is easy on the ABV. This sessionable stout has big roasted malt flavours and then soars to another level with the citrus bite of Centennial Hops.

Deep Creek Mango Tango 5% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Hancocks

Deep Creek have a wide range of juicy, fruity sours and their Mango Tango is an excellent example. Pouring bright yellow like mango juice, it’s actually the passionfruit that dominates the aroma.

The mango sweetness coupled with the passionfruit sourness is a great balance creating a fun drinking experience from beginning to end. Recommended.

Emporium Kolsch 5% ABV, 330ml RRP $4.99 – also in keg.

Emporium Brewing

Emporium’s take on a German classic pours a golden straw colour and has light, bready malt aromas with a slightly sweet finish. Eminently crushable and perfect for the long summer days ahead.

McLeod’s Wicker Basket Tropical Sour 5.4% ABV, 440ml RRP $7.99 McLeod’s Brewery

Wicker Basket Tropical Sour is all about fruit - mingling tangerine and pink guava ever-so nicely. From its fluffy white head with lovely lacing to its juicy tangerine palate underpinned by ripe guava notes, it's delightfully tart and refreshing.

Boneface Soul Sucker 5.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 Boneface Brewing

A beer called Soul Sucker from a brewery called Boneface sounds like a scary proposition, right? Fear not. Smelling like a bag of berry lollies and pouring a pretty pink in the glass, Soul Sucker is a delightful drop with notes of soft berries and a strong hint of lime sourness at the end. It may get your soul, but it will smother it with kindness.

Boneface Super Haze 6% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Boneface Brewing

Lower Hutt brewers Boneface have produced a strong hazy contender here.

Packed with hops and pine flavours, there’s a bit of citrus and a softening haze that rounds out the flavour profile.

Would pair well with spicy foods such as Vietnamese salads with bright bold flavours.

Emporium Dreaming of a Weiss Christmas - White IPA 6% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.49 – also in keg.

Emporium Brewing

Citra and Nelson Sauvin hops create a fantastic bouquet of citrus and passionfruit in this slightly off centre version of a white IPA. The wit yeast adds a lovely layer of sweet citrus underneath the hop tones.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 51

BEER & CIDER REPORT

McLeod’s The Peaceful Sea American Pale Ale

Behemoth Summer in a Can Hazy IPA

McLeod’s Tussle for Supremacy IPA

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 McLeod’s Brewery

6% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $25.99 Behemoth Brewing

6.6% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 McLeod’s Brewery

This beer from Waipu’s McLeod’s Brewery is generously hopped with Loral and Cascade for big, dank citrus-driven aromas backed by soft, bready malt on the palate. The finish is bitter but balanced.

Easy drinking.

A light base of pilsner malt, oats and wheat create a light but massively aromatic and flavourful hazy IPA using Cryo Pop Blend, Motueka, Nectaron® and Sabro hops. Big tropical flavours of lime, orange and passion fruit – like a big subtropical punchbowl.

McLeod’s hometown of Waipu in Northland has a strong connection to Scotland and all things Scottish. The can for Tussle for Supremacy reflects this heritage with the tussle in question being a tug-of-war between two teams of kilted brutes. The IPA itself is a malty, hoppy, golden drop that would go down well after a hot day in the Far North – tug of war or not.

Sunshine Brewery Pineapple and Salted Caramel Sour

Epic Loves Bacon

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 Vintners

6.3% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 Epic

Here’s a beer that could have gone so wrong – but has come out oh, so right. Sunshine’s Pineapple and Salted Caramel Sour is a beautifully balanced dessert of a beer. The fruit and caramel are there on the nose and the pineapple comes through in the flavour profile, but what could be cloying caramel sweetness is balanced beautifully by the salt and sourness. Even the can is artistic and intriguing. A must-try for all beer adventurers. Recommended.

Everybody loves bacon, and everybody loves beer, right? So why wouldn’t you throw them together? Epic have ventured into Rauchbier territory with this one, harnessing the German smoked malt style to great effect for their smoked IPA. There’s actually no bacon in it – it’s vegan – but that’s what the smokiness calls to mind. As the brewers at Epic say: “Pour a glass, grab a bacon buttie and soon you’ll be in your happy place.”

McLeod’s White Sand White IPA

Epic Wonder Joose Hazy IPA

Emerson’s Set Phasers to Stun West Coast IPA

McLeod’s Cyclone Swell Unfiltered IPA

6.2% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 Epic

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 Lion

7% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 McLeod’s Brewery

Epic’s Wonder Joose was so popular the first time round they’ve brought it back.

The bright amber liquid is so hazy it’s opaque, but the flavour profile is packed with fruit flavours. The murkiness provides a rounded, soft mouth-feel. Ideal paired with rich meats like pulled pork.

This was Emerson’s entry into the 2021 Malthouse West Coast IPA Challenge where it placed third and then went on to win Gold at the recent Brewers Guild Awards in the IPA Category. It has a strong hoppy aroma with citrus flavours and a crisp, dry finish.

After the cyclone the sea is all churned up – visibility is low and strong currents lurk in the depths. McLeod’s Cyclone Swell is related to its Tropical Cyclone Double IPA but it has a murky unfiltered haze that disguises its deceptive strength. There’s a strong hop bitterness off-set by the sweetness of the higher alcohol content.

Sunshine Brewing’s Pineapple and Salted Caramel Sour is a beautifully balanced dessert of a beer. A must-try for all beer adventurers.

52 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

6.6% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 McLeod’s Brewery

A cross between a Belgian Wit and a classic IPA, White Sand IPA was brewed with Belgian Wit yeast, oats, wheat and Belgian Pilsner malt before hopping with Lemon Drop and Citra. Fruity and hoppy, there's lifted lemon and a soft palate hinting at bitterness with a light, tart finish. Refreshing and complex.

BEER & CIDER REPORT

Tui Strong Lager 7.2% ABV, 500ml RRP $3.79 DB

Tui’s latest offering is bigger in every way: a big 500ml can with a big 7.2% lager in it – even the bird on the back is bigger!

The familiar Tui profile is still there in a crisp and refreshing golden lager, but the increased alcohol gives a sweetness round the edges that increases the body.

Epic Dankomatic IPA 7.6% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 Epic

Epic’s Dankomatic takes the haze and turns it into a positively murky fog.

Pouring dark amber and cloudy in the glass, it bursts with Nelson Sauvin, Comet and Simcoe hops. The brewers describe it as “walking the streets of San Francisco in a fog”. The 7.6% ABV may well lead to flights of fancy because they also describe it as “a wet green alligator in a technicolour dreamcoat”.

McLeod’s Celtic Warrior Double IPA 8% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 McLeod’s Brewery

One of McLeod’s annual releases, this Double IPA is loaded with Citra, Idaho 7 and Nectaron. Flavours and aromas of tangerine-pineapple are layered on a soft malt cushion with a soft, rounded, lingering bitterness.

McLeod’s Tropical Cyclone Double IPA 8% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 McLeod’s Brewery

Hitting with the strength of a cyclone slamming into the Waipu coast, McLeod’s Double IPA is a force to be reckoned with.

The amber drop has strong pine hops and there’s no hiding the big 8% alcohol content. Not for the faint of heart.

Sunshine Brewery Big Brother Hazy IIPA 8% ABV, 440ml RRP $11.99 Vintners

Sunshine are leaning into their East Coast roots with big beers as strong as a cyclone-driven ocean swell. Their Big Brother Hazy Double IPA has a floral nose and a bunch of tropical fruits in its misty depths. The brewers call out coconut cream, ripe papaya and lime. We also detected a bit of grapefruit in the mix.

A great beer for summer barbecues.

Sunshine Brewery Point Annihilation IIPA 8% ABV, 440ml RRP $11.99 Vintners

Based on Sunshine’s West Coast IPA challenge beer, the Point Annihilation IIPA pays homage to the powerful Mahia surf break. The unceasing swells that drive in from the Pacific are represented in the waves of pine and citrus you get from this strong and chewy IIPA. A fantastic accompaniment to a meal of rich seafood.

Chernigivske Maximum 10% ABV, 500ml RRP $5.49 Q Liquid

Chernigivske Brewery began in the Ukranian city of Chernihiv in 1988.

Today, the brand is the number one beer in Ukraine. Their Maximum is a classic premium lager but with one difference: its 10% alcohol content. The alcohol is strong on the palate but also brings a sweetness that interplays with clean bitterness and the dry astringent finish.

CIDERS Peckham’s Rolling Lemon 4.8% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99 Peckham’s

Peckham’s ciders are a byword for quality and even their most accessible ciders – like this one – stilll have a touch of the refinement that sets them apart. Rolling Lemon uses Brown’s cider apples and is infused with the “painstakingly” handpeeled zest of organic lemons grown in Peckham’s own citrus grove. The result is a soft cider that retains the familiar Peckham’s “real cider” musky notes but pops with lemon at the end.

5th Ocean Apple Cider 6% ABV, 750ml RRP $9.99 Q Liquid

Moscow Brewing Company’s 5th Ocean Apple Cider is a mid-sweet cider with a bright apple flavour that comes in a big 750ml bottle. It is brewed with wine yeast, which gives a pleasant wine hint to the aroma and a long refreshing aftertaste.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 84.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 53

OPINION – BEER

Michael Donaldson

Beer Writer of the Year, journalist and author beernation.co.nz

Heroes from (nearly) zeroes New Zealand craft breweries are joining the growing non-alcoholic beer movement with new releases from three of our top local names, as Michael Donaldson explains…

A FLURRY of non-alcoholic beers from local craft brewers is set to be a gamechanger for the zero ABV beer market in New Zealand.

In the space of a few weeks, Bach Brewing, Sawmill Brewery and Garage Project have each launched six-packs of non-alcoholic beers. In a triumph for the trio of craft producers, these brews all won a bronze medal in the “Speciality and Experimental” category at the Brewers Guild Awards in October.

Good George Brewery looks likely to join the fray early next year too, after entering an experimental non-alcohol beer in the Awards as well.

The Speciality and Experimental class is quite broad and this year its entries included double-digit ABV hop monsters, wild ales, milkshake IPAs, smoked beers, nutty beers, fruity beers and more.

For all three of these new non-alcohol beers to win medals in such a wideranging category is therefore quite an achievement.

At this point, it’s worth noting the use of the term “non-alcoholic” as opposed to “zero” ABV. The true “zeroes” on the market include Heineken 0.0 (the market-leader in this category), as well as Peroni Libera and Bavaria. They are generally made by having alcohol removed, usually via vacuum distillation, although Heineken and others keep their methods secret.

“Non-alcoholic”, on the other hand, is a legal definition, which in New Zealand means a beverage with less than 1.15% 54 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

alcohol by volume (ABV). Other countries have lower thresholds, with 0.5% a more common mark.

There are plenty of non-beer products on shelves in New Zealand with some alcohol, but less than 1.15%, courtesy of fermentation: kombucha is one example.

Even a very ripe banana can contain around 0.4% alcohol.

Both Bach Brewing’s ‘All Day NonAlcoholic IPA’ and Garage Project’s ‘Tiny But Mighty No Alcohol Hazy IPA’ are advertised as less than 0.5% ABV, while Sawmill’s Bare Beer is touted as less than 1.15%, with the brewery saying the ABV is closer to 0.7%.

Sawmill’s brewer, Scott Sharp-Heward, is quite open about the methods they employed. They used speciality grains that don’t ferment easily and combined them with a low-attenuating yeast (a yeast that makes lower alcohol) and as a result

they can create a full fermentation that naturally produces very low ABV. This is different to other techniques such as “arrested fermentation” where a brewer halts the fermentation process shortly after it starts. Arrested fermentation can lead to a disappointing “worty” flavour profile that’s best described as a muddled maltiness.

What Bach, Garage Project and Sawmill have in common is that they’ve avoided this worty flavour and the beers taste bright and clean. In fact, Craig Cooper from Bach Brewing said it was the number one requirement from contract brewing partner Steam when they developed the recipe.

All three beers are hop-driven, but in different ways. Bach’s All Day bursts with tropical hop character and longlasting flavour, while Garage Project’s Tiny But Mighty is brightly lemon citrus with a sparkling mouthfeel. Sawmill’s Bare Beer is in a pale ale style and has an uptick of bitterness undercutting a piney-citrus hoppiness.

All three are naturally light on the palate but that comes with the territory.

The only way to fatten up the mouthfeel in a non-alcoholic beer is to add sugar, which is why so many on the market taste overly sweet. But that’s not the case here and as a result all three beers are quite sessionable and pleasing.

In short, they are three of the besttasting non-alcoholic beers on the market right now and are proof of the skill that New Zealand craft brewers have developed in recent years.

BEER & CIDER NEWS

Premium craft non-alc beers in NZ

Hancocks signs Lone Bee Honey Mead LONE BEE, New Zealand’s first independent and largest sparkling honey mead producer, has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Hancocks Wine, Spirit & Beer Merchants.

The deal comes four years after Lone Bee launched and founder Oren Dalton says it is a significant step towards his dream of creating and leading a honey mead industry to rival New Zealand’s cider industry and then eventually New Zealand’s wine industry.

“We make the best honey in the world, so we should be creating the best honey mead in the world. By doing this we will further increase the demand for honey more honey means more bees, flowers, plants, trees and ultimately a healthier, happier planet.

“This agreement will further strengthen our nationwide presence coming into the critical summer trade, which is super exciting,” says Dalton. “This also great news for the category and with numerous brands entering the market over the past 12 months, the honey mead industry is seeing amazing growth.”

Lone Bee’s popular first variant is Sparkling Clover & Manuka Honey Mead (5.3% ABV) and Dalton says they will soon expand on this. It is made from clover and manuka honey, water and yeast and is naturally gluten free with no additives, preservatives or flavourings.

Lone Bee Honey Mead is available in 330ml and 500ml bottles.

Distributed by Hancocks 56 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

SOME OF the world’s best premium non-alcoholic craft beers are now available in New Zealand through local company Long Breeze Distributors. Its portfolio includes the UK’s award-winning Big Drop Brewing and vandeStreek Brewing from the Netherlands. Big Drop Brewing launched in 2016 and is the UK’s leading independent brewer of 0.5% ABV beer.

It was a star performer at this year’s World Beer Awards 2021, winning the overall title for ‘World’s Best No & Low Alcohol Beer’ for its Galactic Milk Stout, and ‘World’s Best No & Low Alcohol Speciality Beer’ for its Paradiso Citra IPA – both of which are available through Long Breeze. Dutch brewery vandeStreek was founded by brothers Sander and Ronald van de Streek back in 2013 after they started brewing as a hobby, and its 0.5% ABV IPAs are also proving hugely popular around the world.

Find out more at longbreezedistributors.co.nz

8-Wired boxes up

Sunshine in a can with Tutū Cider M ORI-OWNED FOOD and drinks company Kono has released its Nelson cider brand Tut in new 330ml cans and with a new cider made from hail-damaged apples.

After a severe hailstorm hit Motueka on Boxing Day 2020, thousands of export quality Fuji apples were left on the ground and destined to be stock feed.

The company used the apples to make its new Tut Cider, which is brewed and canned in Nelson.

Tut Cider spokesperson R pata Taylor said, “Hailstorms can turn apples into mush or into the world’s best cider and we opted for the latter. Utilising rescued fruit from our orchard also feeds into our broader sustainability journey, which will see Tut Cider and Kono be waste-free by 2028.”

Tut Cider 330ml RRP $4.99 and 330ml 6-pack RRP$23.99.

Distributed by Kono

MATAKANA BREWERY 8-Wired has released three of its popular brews in new 330ml can 6-pack formats. The three beers in the new formats are: • Hop Salad - Hazy Pale Ale (6% ABV) RRP $25.99 • Hippy Berliner - Sour Ale (4% ABV) RRP $23.99 • Daydream - Hazy Pale Ale (4.7% ABV) RRP $23.99 8-Wired

New brew qualifications at Lincoln LINCOLN UNIVERSITY has announced it will offer New Zealand’s first Bachelor of Science degree major and graduate diploma in brewing and fermentation, meeting a demand for skills from the industry.

The science-based programmes cover brewing beer and fermenting a wide range of products such as cheese, kombucha, cider, yoghurt, kimchi, and kefir.

The Bachelor of Science (Brewing and Fermentation) and Graduate Diploma in Brewing and Fermentation also cover some of the business aspects of selling the products, as students work alongside industry partners to develop a particular style of beer. The graduate diploma is part of Lincoln University fees free course offer, which runs until the end of next year. lincoln.ac.nz

BEER & CIDER NEWS

Tekapo brewery brews NZ’s best beer THE TITLE of New Zealand’s Best Beer was awarded to a brew from Burkes Brewing Co. at the NZ Beer Awards 2021.

The results of the Awards were announced in late October at a mixture of socially distanced and virtual events around the country, where the Tekapo brewery won the Champion Award for its Unforgiven Porter.

After a hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19, the Brewers Guild of New Zealand says it was impressed with the 839 entries it received for the 2021 Awards. These were from 72 companies and spanned 122 different style classes. The Juicy-Hazy category was the most hotly contested,

with 130 entries, followed by Fruit & Flavoured with 119.

“To receive this number of entries is a huge showing considering the impact that COVID has continued to have on our industry over the past two years,” said outgoing Guild Executive Director, Sabrina Kunz.

New Zealand’s best breweries were named as Three Sisters Brewery (Micro), Altitude Brewing Co (Small),

NZ Beer Champion Award Winners 2021

Available Now in NZ

www.longbreezedistributors.co.nz info@longbreezedistributors.co.nz 027 205 2795

WORLD AWARD WINNING

NON-ALCOHOLIC CRAFT BEERS

McLeod’s Brewery (Medium), and Garage Project (Large).

Alibi Brewing, a microbrewery on Waiheke Island, won the title of Champion New Zealand Exhibitor, which recognises the New Zealand brewing business that exhibits the best range of beer overall in the competition.

Industry figure, Dr Ron Beatson, received the Morton Coutts Award in recognition of his career dedicated to New Zealand’s hops and brewing industry. 95% of New Zealand’s commercial hop industry is based on research he pioneered, with the recently released Nectaron named after him.

Despite COVID impacting the entry process and judge availability due to last minute Alert Level changes, the judging was wrapped up in two and a half days, led by Chief Judge, David Nicholls of DNA Brewery.

Champion Micro Brewery: Three Sisters Brewery (Taranaki) Champion Small Brewery: Altitude Brewing Co (Queenstown) Champion Medium Brewery: McLeod’s Brewery (Waipu, Northland) Champion Large Brewery: Garage Project (Te Aro, Wellington) Champion New Zealand Exhibitor: Alibi Brewing (Waiheke Island) Champion New Zealand Manufacturer: bStudio (Napier, Hawke’s Bay) Champion New Zealand Beer: Burkes Brewing Unforgiven Porter (Lake Tekapo, Mackenzie Country) Full results at brewersguild.org.nz/awards

Champion Medium Brewery – McLeod’s Brewery

BEER & CIDER NEWS

Pear cider tops NZ Fruit Wine & Cider Awards A BOTTLE-FERMENTED pear cider has been named Champion Cider at the New Zealand Fruit Wine & Cider Awards.

Perfect Pear 2018 by The Cider Factorie in Tauranga took the top award at a pared-back version of the Awards held in Hawke’s Bay. It is the first time a pear cider, or “perry”, has won the top honour since the awards' inception in 1984.

Judges said Perfect Pear, crafted in the methode traditionelle style, was wellcrafted and “simply delicious”.

The top fruit wine in the country was named as Excaliber 2018, a mead wine made by Wildfern NZ in Upper Hutt. The Awards had been planned to coincide with The NZ Cider Festival, which was due to be held in Hastings the same weekend, but has been postponed to February next year due to COVID-19. This year’s awards were held in front of a small crowd, with most cider makers joining by Zoom.

This year, there were 138 entries, a significant 29% increase on the 107 last year. In total, there were 12 trophies

Simon and Rowena Pearce of The Cider Factorie

awarded, 18 gold medals, 47 silver medals and 54 bronze medals. Reflecting the burgeoning seltzer market, the awards this year also included a seltzer category for the first time.

New Zealand Fruit Wine & Cider Awards 2021

Overall Champions (selected from the trophy winners in each category) NZ Champion Cider: Perfect Pear 2018, The Cider Factorie (Tauranga) NZ Champion Fruit Wine: Excaliber 2018, Wildfern NZ (Lower Hutt)

Trophy Winners: Cider Best Modern Cider: Old Sod 2021, Peat Cider Company (Hamilton) Best Traditional Cider: Totally Oaked 2021, Elemental Cider ( taki) Best Pear Cider (Perry): The Pict 2020, Paynter’s Cider (Hastings) Best Cider with Berry Fruit: Old Mout Boysencider, Redwood Cider Co. (Nelson) Best Cider With Non-Berry Fruits: Mata Golden Kiwi Cider 2021, Aotearoa Breweries (Whakat ne) Best Cider with Spice, Botanicals or Honey: Oatmeal Cookie 2021, Bohemian Cider (Matakana) Best Bottle-Fermented Cider: Perfect Pear 2018, The Cider Factorie (Tauranga) Trophy Winners: Fruit Wine Best Fruit Wine: Apple and Feijoa Fruit Wine, Lothlorien Winery (Warkworth) Best Fortified Fruit Wine or Fruit Liqueur : Feijoa and Honey Liqueur, Lothlorien Winery (Warkworth) Best Mead: Excaliber 2018, Wildfern NZ (Lower Hutt) Full results at cidernz.com

EVErCHANGING PATTErNS IN YOUr MOUTH

MALTY

HOPPY

LIGHT

DArK

sweet

bitter

TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

The

might of

Mexico The distinctive flavours of tequila and mezcal are finding more and more Kiwi fans, with a growing range of these Mexican spirits now available.

60 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Tequila – RRP $40-$69.99 Hijos de Villa Tequila 40% ABV, 500ml RRP $44.99 Tickety-Boo

Arette Blanco has sweet aromas of cooked agave, followed by fresh flavours of citrus and black pepper and an earthy spice.

Fresh aromas of blue agave followed by a herbaceous and fruity sweetness on the palate. The Maguey worms bring a pleasant level of smoke to the tequila and a smooth and long finish.

El Jimador Blanco

Espolon Blanco

Buen Amigo Gold

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $47.99 Hancocks

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $49.99 Thirsty Camel

A versatile tequila with aromas of agave, apple and spice and mild agave flavour.

The finish is smooth, clean and warming.

A smooth and balanced tequila with delicate aromas of sweet agave, tropical fruit, lemon zest and a hint of pepper that continue on the palate along with vanilla bean, grilled pineapple and spice.

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $47.99 EuroVintage

Aromas of nuts, vanilla and cinnamon continue onto the palate, which is fresh, soft and smooth.

Buen Amigo Silver 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $47.99 EuroVintage

An intense tequila with aromas of peach and lemon and flavours of citrus and sweet fruits.

El Jimador Reposado 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $47.99 Hancocks

Two months in oak gives this tequila its light gold hue, along with flavours of spicy cinnamon and apple.

El Jimador Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 Hancocks

A rich tequila with aromas of vanilla, hazelnut and a hint of cinnamon. Aged for 12 months, its agave flavours have mellowed and sit alongside earthy notes with light cinnamon and other spices. A smooth finish with hints of oak and cherry.

Espolon Reposado 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $54.99 Thirsty Camel

Six months in American oak barrels gives this tequila a rich golden hue and a spicy nose with a hint of caramel fudge. The taste is bold and full-bodied with rich roasted agave, sweet tropical fruit, vanilla and a long spicy finish.

Arette Blanco 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 Tickety-Boo

Sweet aromas of cooked agave are followed by fresh flavours of citrus and black pepper and an earthy spice.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 61

TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Cazcabel Coconut

Olmeca Altos Plata

Don Ramón Punta Diamante Silver

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 Federal Merchants

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 Pernod Ricard

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $67.99 EuroVintage

This tequila has aromas of sweet coconut with underlying notes of earthy agave.

The palate is rich and sweet with warm hits of coconut. The finish is smooth with sweet vegetal notes.

Aromas of sweet cooked agave with herbal notes and a subtle citrus quality.

On the palate it is smooth and soft, with lime and lemon characters and a lingering sweetness on the finish.

Aromas of bright florals with notes of herbs and raw agave all persist on the palate. A pronounced herbaceous flavour with a hint of sweetness that evolves into a warming minerality.

Cazcabel Coffee

Arette Reposado

1800 Coconut

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 Federal Merchants

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $67.99 Tickety-Boo

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99 Lion

Aromas of chocolate and coffee with a hint of earthy agave lead to a palate rich with freshly roasted coffee, notes of chocolate, vanilla and agave. A smooth, dry, rich coffee finish.

Aged for six months in American white oak, this tequila has aromas of citrus, caramel and cooked agave with citrus and vanilla favours, an earthy note and cinnamon sweetness. The finish is rich and spicy.

Natural coconut flavour is infused into 1800 Silver to create this expression with its slightly-sweet and medium-bodied tropical taste. Ideal for serving on the rocks or in tropical-inspired cocktails – it pairs particularly well with pineapple juice.

Don Ramón Punta Diamante Reposado

1800 Reposado

Cazcabel Honey 34% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 Federal Merchants

Earthy, honey aromas and rich, sweet flavours of warm natural honey with a finish of caramel and smoky notes.

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $67.99 EuroVintage

This aged expression of Don Ramón is rested in white oak and has bright floral and herbal aromas with subtle vanilla and chocolate. On the palate there are flavours of citrus, cooked agave and herbs.

The Cazcabel Coconut expression has aromas of sweet coconut with underlying notes of earthy agave.

The palate is rich and sweet with warm hits of coconut.

62 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99 Lion

This tequila is matured in American and French oak barrels for a minimum of six months. It has notes of buttery caramel, mild spices and a touch of smoke from the barrel finishing.

T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

1800 Silver 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99 Lion

A blend of specially selected white tequilas. 1800 Silver is a versatile tequila with a clean, balanced taste and hints of sweet fruit and pepper.

Don Ramón Punta Diamante Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 EuroVintage

This aged expression from Don Ramón spends 12 months in American oak barrels, creating aromas of citrus, wood, and vanilla. Buttery on the palate with notes of citrus, peach, plum, clove and pepper, developing into deeper notes of wood and vanilla.

Olmeca Altos Reposado 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 Pernod Ricard

Ageing for 6-8 months in white oak gives the reposado expression of Olmeca Altos its woody aromas with a hint of sweet orange and vanilla. It is rounded and full on the palate with more sweet orange, cooked agave and subtle wood character.

TEQUILA AND MEZCAL Tequila

Takes its name from the city of Tequila in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Legally, tequila can only be produced in this state and in four other regions of Mexico and is recognised as a protected designation of origin product. To be a true tequila, it must be made from the blue agave plant (also known as Weber Blue Agave, after the German botanist who first classified it) and produced in one of those recognised areas.

Production: Agave plants are succulents that grow well in Mexico’s hot, arid conditions and produce thick, spiky leaves. Careful tending by the jimadores (agave harvesters) allows the plants to ripen fully – often taking up to 12 years. When ready to harvest, the jimadores cut away the spiky leaves to reach the core, known as the piña, which resembles a giant pineapple without its top. The piñas are baked over hours or days (depending on the producer) and then mashed under a large stone wheel. The extracted agave juice (wort) is then fermented and distilled twice to produce clear tequila.

Ageing: This initial clear tequila can be bottled as ‘silver’ tequila (also known as ‘plata’ or ‘blanco’), or further aged in barrel to create reposado (for minimum two to eight months), añejo (minimum 12 months) or extra añejo (minimum three years).

Mezcal

Mezcal is an agave-based liquor that can be made from any of up to 30 different varieties of the agave plant. It is made in nine different regions in Mexico. While the harvest of piñas is the same as for tequila, the more artisanal mezcal producers use underground earthen pits in which to slow bake their piñas, which imparts the distinctive smoky flavour of mezcal.

DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 63

TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Tequila – RRP $70-$99.99 Batanga Blanco 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $70 Mineral

A crisp tequila with flavours of pineapple, guava, hints of cinnamon, clove and warming spices.

Batanga is made by a family estate linked with the beginnings of Mexico’s tequila industry. Its Blanco expression is crisp with pineapple, guava and spices.

Calle 23 Blanco

Cazcabel Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $75 Mineral

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 Federal Merchants

Ageing in American oak barrels creates complex flavours of coffee, vanilla, toffee and warming spices.

Aromas of cooked agave with hints of citrus and herbs lead to a soft palate full of agave flavour, with notes of Granny Smith apples and pears in the lingering finish.

Arquitecto Blanco

1800 Añejo

This rested expression of Cazcabel matures in American oak barrels for a minimum of nine months. It has aromas of agave with a touch of eucalyptus and hints of white pepper, caramel and toasted oak. The palate balances dry, earthy agave with vanilla and toasted oak. The finish is long and complex with a jalapeño tingle.

Batanga Reposado 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $73 Mineral

42.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.95 Proof & Company

A clean and crisp tequila made from agave grown at high altitudes. Notes of black pepper emerge alongside distinctive cooked agave.

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $79.99 Lion

A minimum of 14 months ageing in French oak barrels gives this tequila flavours of toasted oak, vanilla and butterscotch, with a spicy, well-rounded finish. Ideal served as a sipping tequila.

Cazcabel Blanco 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 Federal Merchants

A fresh, crisp tequila with a spicy aroma, a slight hint of citrus and plenty of earthy agave. Smooth and well-balanced with notes of earthy agave and citrus. A crisp finish with touches of black pepper and a light smokiness on the exit.

64 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Arette Añejo 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99 Tickety-Boo

Aged in American white oak barrels for 14-18 months, this tequila has aromas of vanilla and caramel, a smoky oak character on the palate and a long finish.

Avión Silver 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Pernod Ricard

An intense agave aroma with subtle mint and rosemary, delicate floral and black pepper characters and hints of grapefruit and pineapple. Crisp and clean, well balanced and smooth.

T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Don Ramón Platinum Reposado Cristalino 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99 EuroVintage

A soft aroma with clear and delicate notes of wood, vanilla, nuts, cinnamon and spice. These characters continue on the palate, which is soft and silky.

Don Ramón Platinum Silver 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99 EuroVintage

Fresh notes of citrus and agave on the nose lead to lengthy flavours of agave on the palate.

Mucha Liga Blanco 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

With its striking bottle, this is a tequila that stands out on the shelf. It’s smooth and full of blue agave flavour – fresh and light on the palate.

Calle 23 Reposado

Cenote Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $93 Mineral

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99 Tickety-Boo

This tequila is double distilled in traditional pot stills and spends eight months in ex-bourbon oak casks. Delicate aromas of wood with cooked agave, it is a wellbalanced tequila that is light and smooth in the mouth. Notes of roasted peppers and fresh figs, light wood, a big agave presence and well-balanced spiciness.

This golden-hued tequila is aged for three months in American oak, creating aromas of vanilla and wood and leading to a rounded palate of vanilla, wood spice and green vegetable characters.

Arette Artesanal Suave Blanco 38% ABV, 750ml RRP $94.99 Tickety-Boo

The Artesanal range from Arette is a more premium expression of their tequilas.

The Blancio is crystal clear with a zesty, lemony aroma that persists on the palate along with dried herbs, juicy florals and cooked agave. Smooth mouthfeel and fresh finish.

Don Ramon Platinum Añejo Cristalino 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $94.99 EuroVintage

Aromas of nuts, vanilla and cinnamon continue on the palate, along with a delicate wood character. Lingering finish.

Mucha Liga Reposado 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $94.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

Rested in white oak barrels, this reposado expression from Mucha Liga balances notes of caramel with the gentle flavours of blue agave.

Herradura Plata 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $95.99 Hancocks

The Mucha Liga tequila brand is inspired by Mexico’s “Lucha Libre” (freestyle wrestling) culture, reflected in its distinctive bottles.

This ‘Plata’ expression from Herradura is aged 45 days and has aromas of green and cooked agave, with herbal and slightly woody notes. Flavours of agave, wood and citrus give way to a smooth, clean and warming finish.

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TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Arette Artesanal Suave Reposado 38% ABV, 750ml RRP $99.99 Tickety-Boo

Aged for six months in American white oak, this tequila has aromas of citrus, caramel and cooked agave, with citrus and vanilla flavours, an earthy note and cinnamon sweetness. The finish is rich and spicy, with an oily texture. Serve neat or in a tequila-forward cocktail.

Código 1530 Blanco 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

An earthy, mineral character that balances the citrusy sweetness of this tequila beautifully.

Herradura Reposado 40% ABV ,700ml RRP $99.99 Hancocks

Eleven months in American white oak intensifies the aromas of cooked agave in this tequila, along with hints of anise, fruit and spice. It is rich with flavours of sweet cooked agave, vanilla, butter and dried fruit. The finish is smooth and sweet with a hint of brown spice.

Patrón Silver 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $99.99 Lion

This silver tequila is handmade in small batches. It is soft, smooth and sweet on the palate with fresh agave, hints of citrus and a finish of light pepper.

Calle 23 Añejo is a full-bodied tequila that is double distilled in traditional pot stills and matured for 16 months in ex-bourbon oak casks.

Tequila – RRP $100-$199 Calle 23 Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $100 Mineral

A full-bodied tequila that is double distilled in traditional pot stills and matured for 16 months in ex-bourbon oak casks. Oak aromas marry with a rich touch of vanilla and coffee and notes of herbs and spices. On the palate there is cracked coffee and tobacco balanced with agave and vanilla.

Tequila Ocho Plata 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $102 Mineral

Ocho is the first tequila to designate both the year it was produced and the precise field from which the agave was harvested.

Each estate, or “rancho” produces a limited amount of agave, adding to the rarity and collectability of each vintage of Ocho. The Plata is an unaged tequila – intense and lively with clean flavours.

Mucha Liga Añejo 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $104.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

A barrel-rested tequila that is robust and smooth and presented in the distinctive bottle inspired by Mexico’s lucha libre professional wrestling.

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T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Cenote Añejo

Casamigos Blanco

Casamigos Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99 Tickety-Boo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $120 Federal Merchants

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $135 Federal Merchants

Ageing for a year in American oak gives this tequila its rich amber colour and lush, complex character. The nose is smoked and woody, with vanilla, spice and chocolate on the palate. The bottle is especially striking with its sculpted piña adornment on the cap.

Rested for two months in American oak, the Blanco expression from Casamigos is crisp and clean with hints of citrus, vanilla and sweet agave, and a long smooth finish.

This is the original Casamigos, aged for seven months. A golden colour, it is soft and slightly oaky with hints of caramel and cocoa. It has a silky texture with a medium to long smooth finish.

Código 1530 Reposado

Fortaleza Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $149.99 Tickety-Boo

Bright, sweet agave notes with the added complexity of vanilla, toasted caramel and subtle cocoa powder.

Aromas of citrus, caramel, butter, cooked agave, and sage lead to a palate of cooked agave, citrus, vanilla, apple, earth, and cinnamon. The finish is long, rich and delicately spicy, with an oily texture.

Herradura Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99 Hancocks

Ageing for just over two years gives this tequila a rich, dark copper hue. It has intense aromas of cooked agave and spices, which continue in the complex palate, along with dried fruit notes and toasted oak. The finish is smooth, sweet and slightly spicy.

Código 1530 Blanco Rosa 35% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

Código 1530 Blanco is rested for a month in uncharred Napa Valley Cabernet French white oak wine barrels to create this Rosa expression. A refined tequila that leads with bright agave character and finishes with the soft red wine notes of Cabernet.

Arette Artesanal Suave Añejo 38% ABV, 750ml RRP $134.99 Tickety-Boo

An elegant and complex aged tequila that spends at least 18 months in American white oak barrels. Aromas of citrus, dried fruit and a vanilla sweetness continue on the palate. The lingering finish has a hint of black pepper.

Fortaleza Blanco

Casamigos Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $150 Federal Merchants

Aged for 14 months, this tequila has a complex aroma, with soft caramel and vanilla notes. There is balanced sweetness from the agave, subtle hints of spice and barrel oak, and a lingering smooth finish.

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $134.99 Tickety-Boo

This tequila has rich aromas of citrus and cooked agave with hints of olive, earth and black pepper. On the palate there is more citrus and cooked agave with vanilla, basil, olive and lime.

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TEQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

THE BRANDS 1800

Batanga

Cenote

Espolon

1800 Tequila takes its name from the year in which the first tequila was distilled and aged and its bottles are a distinctive triangular shape that references the ancient Mayan stone pyramids found throughout Mexico. 1800 Tequilas are all made from Weber Blue Agave grown for 8-12 years in Jalisco.

Batanga Tequila is made by the Casa Orendain Family Estate, which was founded in 1926 in Jalisco, Mexico. The Orendains are known as one of the four founding families of the tequila industry. Batanga takes its name from a drink created in the 1950s in a cantina in Tequila: tequila, cola and fresh lime juice. The secret to its success is said to the large knife used to cut the lime and stir the cocktail.

This tequila brand takes its name from the underground water systems of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, known as cenotes (pronounced ‘SAY-no-tay’). These natural swimming holes were formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, and contain fresh water filtered by the earth.

The ancient Mayans revered cenotes because they were a water source during dry times.

Cenote is owned by Stoli Group.

A premium tequila-maker based at the San Nicolas distillery in Jalisco. With its distinctive illustrated labels and reputation for playing rock music in the distillery to ‘inspire’ the agave, Espolon is regarded as something of a cult favourite.

Buen Amigo

Código 1530

A brand owned by Mexican company Dialce, which owns blue agave fields in Jalisco and is a leading producer of 100% agave tequila and mixto tequila.

Dialce exports tequila to over 40 countries and also owns the Don Ramón brand.

This brand has its origins with a private recipe tequila (‘El Tequila Privado’). For several generations, a local Amatitán artisan and distilling family produced this spirit in accordance with centuries-old codes and customs. Código 1530’s name honours “Los Códigos,” those codes and customs that shaped and still live on in Amatitán and the Los Bajos region.

Alipús

Alipús was created to provide a market for family artisan mezcal distilleries in Mexico so they could stay in business and continue their traditions. Alipús offers a range of premium artisanal mezcals hand-distilled in small, rural, family distilleries in the state of Oaxaca in southwest Mexico. Each mezcal reflects the individuality of the family’s craftsmanship.

Arette

Arette tequila is made at the El Llano distillery in the town of Tequila. One of the oldest distilleries in the region still in production, it is operated by the Orendain brothers, who are descendants of one of the most recognised families in the tequila industry.

Arquitecto

A tequila brand producing low-waste, low-carbon, environmentally sustainable and responsibly produced tequila. It uses high altitude agave grown on the lands of Master Tequilero, Arq. Enrique Fonseca, near Atotonilco in Mexico’s highlands and is made at his ABV Tequileña distillery in the town of Tequila.

No immature agave, no nonagave fermentation sugars, no diffuser, and no additives are used in its production.

Avión

Based in Jalisco, tequila producer Avión uses blue agave grown in the highlands of Los Altos on a single estate at 7,000 feet above sea level, which creates a richer and naturally sweeter tequila. It describes its distillation processes as “the art of inefficiency”, referring to the fact its Master Distiller removes significant ‘heads’ and ‘tails’ during distillation, meaning it takes up to 30% more agave to make one bottle of Avión, versus other ultra-premium tequila. Each bottle is hand-filled and the batch and bottle codes are handwritten on the labels.

Calle 23

Frenchwoman Sophie Decobecq is the founder, owner and master distiller of Calle 23 Tequila.

After spending time in Mexico she developed a passion for the people and its tequila culture and learnt the art of distilling and started Calle 23 in Guadalajara.

Casamigos

This tequila brand was created in 2013 by actor George Clooney with longtime friends Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman. The name Casamigos translates from Spanish as “house of friends”. It was bought by Diageo in 2017 for US$1bn. At the time, Diageo described it as “the fastest growing super-premium tequila brand in the US.” Casamigos is a small batch, ultra-premium tequila and its traditional production includes slow roasting of the piñas in brick ovens, use of pot stills, a proprietary yeast blend and extra slow 80-hour ferment.

Cazcabel

The Cazcabel brand was inspired by the Mexican medicine man Don Cazcabel – also known as the “Snakeman” of the Jalisco Mountains. The premium tequilas are created in an independent micro distillery in the highlands of the Jalisco Mountains.

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Del Maguey

Del Maguey (pronounced ‘ma-’GAY’) is an artisanal mezcal company founded by American artist Ron Cooper in 1995. He works closely with family producers in the Mexican region of Oaxaca, who create the Del Maguey Single Village Mezcals. Each mezcal is named for the village in which it is made, with the varying micro-climates and soils contributing to the flavour profiles.

Derrumbes

Mezcal Derrumbes is a project from two established agave veterans, Esteban Morales, owner of La Venenosa raicilla, and Sergio Mendoza, owner of Tequila Don Fulano.

Don Ramón

The premium tequila brand of Mexican company Dialce, which owns blue agave fields in Jalisco and is a leading producer of 100% agave tequila and mixto tequila. Dialce exports tequila to over 40 countries and also owns the Buen Amigo brand.

El Jimador

Launched in 1994, this tequila brand takes its name from those who harvest the agave plants used in tequila production, the ‘jimador’.

Fortaleza

Tequila Fortaleza traces its family roots back to 1873 and the establishment of a tequila distillery in Jalisco, by local man Don Cenobio. A second family distillery in the region, La Fortaleza, was subsequently revived by his great-greatgrandson in the late 1990s and the brand launched in 2005.

Gracias a Dios

Gracias a Dios, which translates from Spanish as ‘Thank God’ is an artisan mezcal producer in Mexico’s state of Oaxaca.

This mezcal is made from 100 per cent Espadin Agave, grown for eight years. The agave’s piñas are cooked for four days in a dirt oven before crushing, fermentation and distillation. This slow underground cook gives the mezcal aromas of smoke and spice, followed by fruit and a slight astringency.

Herradura

Tequila Herradura traces its origins in Jalisco from 1870, remaining family-owned for 125 years. The name ‘Herradura’ means ‘horseshoe’ in Spanish, and is said to relate to the discovery on the hacienda property of a horseshoe that was thought to be lucky. Horseshoes are still displayed in the historic hacienda in Jalisco (now a museum) and, as with those on the bottle, they point downward “so that good fortune may pour out for those who enjoy Herradura”.

Hijo de Villa

A tequila brand owned by Mexican liquor company Licores Veracruz.

Ilegal

Ilegal Mezcal had its beginnings around 2004, when its eventual founder, John Rexer, began bringing unbranded mezcal down from a variety of villages in Oaxaca to Antigua to supply his bar, Café No Sé. The mezcal became popular very quickly and in 2006, John created the brand Ilegal, originally just to supply his bar in Guatemala but it has since grown to export globally.

T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Le Tribute

A Spanish spirits brand launched in 2017 and created by familyowned business MG Destilerias.

Tequila – RRP $200 and above

Mezcal Divino

A mezcal brand owned by Mexican liquor company Licores Veracruz.

Mucha Liga

Código 1530 Añejo

A tequila brand inspired by Mexico’s “Lucha Libre” (freestyle wrestling) culture. It is owned by Matatena Spirits, a privately owned, premium spirits producer specialising in tequila and mezcal, based in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Refined, elegant and expressive – this tequila has hints of fruit, mingled with oak, touches of vanilla and a bit of spice.

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $209.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

Código 1530 Barrel Strength Aged Añejo

Olmeca Altos

Olmeca Altos tequilas are produced in Jalisco, using agave from the Los Altos region, which is known for growing sugar-rich plants. The agave is harvested and processed using traditional methods, with brick ovens and a 2-ton tahona stone doing the final work before double distillation in small-batch copper stills. The brand is owned by Pernod Ricard and distributed in more than 80 countries.

Patrón

This ultra-premium tequila brand launched in 1989 and takes its name from the Spanish term for “the good boss”. Its entire tequila-making process is based at Hacienda Patrón in Jalisco, where hand-harvested piñas are baked in small brick ovens then crushed by a two-ton volcanic stone (tahona) wheel and a roller mill. The distinctive Patrón bottles are handmade by Mexican glass artisans. Bacardi bought Patrón in early 2018.

Tequila Ocho

Tequila Ocho is a joint partnership between restaurateur Tomas Estes and third generation tequilero Carlos Camarena.

Estes is respected throughout the global bar and spirits community for his work promoting tequila, agave spirits and Mexican culture in Europe. Carlos Camarena is one of Mexico’s most respected tequila producers and is the Master Distiller of Tequila Ocho made at La Alteña distillery in Jalisco. “Ocho” means “eight” and refers to the fact that Tequila Ocho is made from the eighth sample created by the Camarenas for Tomas Estes.

43.1% ABV, 700ml RRP $249.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

Subtle caramelised vanilla and dark chocolate notes, swirling with toasted oak aroma. Soft on the palate.

Código 1530 Origen Arette Gran Clase Extra Añejo 43% ABV, 750ml RRP $174.99 Tickety-Boo

A premium tequila that is rested for 36 months in American white oak barrels. It is a limited production release with each bottle decorated by hand.

Fortaleza Añejo 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $194.99 Tickety-Boo

This golden-hued tequila is aged for 18 months in American oak, creating bold aromas of caramel, vanilla, butterscotch and cooked agave. It is rich and complex with flavours of butterscotch, caramel, toffee, citrus and hazelnut.

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $499.99 The Premium Liquor Co.

Aromas of spice, vanilla, caramel and sweet oak lead to a robust palate full of flavours of dried fig and cinnamon.

Herradura Seleccion Suprema Extra Añejo 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $629.99 Hancocks

This very special Extra Añejo is aged 49 months, giving it a dark amber colour and aromas of agave, dry wood, vanilla, cinnamon and rose petal. It has complex flavours of rich vanilla, oak and dried fruit.

It is creamy and soft in the mouth with a long finish. One to savour.

The Herradura Seleccion Suprema Extra Añejo is aged 49 months and has complex flavours of rich vanilla, oak and dried fruit. One to savour.

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Mezcal

Del Maguey San Luis Del Rio Crema de Mezcal

Mezcal Divino Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $84.99 Pernod Ricard

36% ABV, 500ml RRP $49.99 Tickety-Boo

A fresh and delicate balance of traditional aromas characteristic of mezcal and maguey worm. Gently herbal with smoky and mineral notes that evoke the land on which the agave was grown.

Mezcal Monte Alban 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 Federal Merchants

Monte Alban Mezcal is produced with no added neutral spirits and no artificial additives. It's a solid 100% agave mezcal, with a mezcal worm in each bottle.

A brilliant golden amber colour with hints of smoky agave and pineapple, it's ideal for agave-based cocktails.

Del Maguey San Luis Del Rio VIDA Mezcal 42% ABV, 750ml RRP $84.99 Pernod Ricard

An artisanal organic mezcal, hand crafted and twice distilled, slowly in small woodfired, riverside copper stills. It has aromas of fruit, honey, vanilla and roasted agave, with a palate of ginger, cinnamon, burnt sandalwood, banana and tangerine.

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A unique combination of roasted agave syrup and mezcal. It has a nose of roast agave, vanilla and pear, and notes of creamy almond, apple, coffee and pineapple on the palate with a long, sweet, smoky orange finish.

Don Ramón Mezcal 100% Salmiana 40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99 EuroVintage

This mezcal is made from 100% Salmiana agave grown in Mexico’s state of Zacatecas. Aged for 8-10 years it has a distinctive earthy smokiness balanced by herbs, florals, and fresh citrus layered with a subtle fruity finish from the agave.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Higo (Fig) 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Tickety-Boo

Distilled with Mexican Black Figs in a traditional pechuga style (where a chicken breast is hung to cook in the vapours of the final distillation), this mezcal has a sweet smoke aroma followed by a robust mouth feel. The fresh figs, along with the Espadin Agave base create a palate reminiscent of stewed fruits and prunes.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Joven 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Tickety-Boo

This mezcal is made from 100% Espadín Agave, grown for eight years. Flavours of spice and smoke give way to sweet fruits and a hint of citrus. Dry and spicy on the finish.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Mango 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Tickety-Boo

A clean, bright, dry mezcal made with mangoes grown on the Oaxacan coast. It is full of mango character – from the initial aroma through to a palate of tropical sweetness with notes of creamy custard.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Piña 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Tickety-Boo

This special edition tequila is made with a different fruit each year by Gracias a Dios’ mezcal maestro, Oscar Hernandez, who always gives a bottle to his local priest. The latest release uses pineapple, which adds a tropical sweetness to the traditional smoky character of mezcal.

T EQUILA & MEZCAL REPORT

Gracias a Dios, which translates from Spanish as “Thank God” is an artisan mezcal producer in Mexico’s state of Oaxaca.

Ilegal Joven

Derrumbes San Luis Potosi

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $93 Mineral

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $95 Mineral

An un-aged tequila with full-bodied agave flavour. Eucalyptus and mineral aromas complement hints of green apple, fresh citrus, and red chiltepe peppers. It finishes with light smoke and lingering heat.

Savoury and funky aromas of fresh pico de gallo, lime, sauerkraut, green chilli and sharp gorgonzola. A tequila with mediumfull body. The palate is, at first, sweeter than the nose, with apple and lychee, but the fruits are quickly joined by salsa verde and blue cheese.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Reposado 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99 Tickety-Boo

This 100% Espadín agave mezcal is aged for four months in American oak. It has aromas of spicy oak, wild herbs and citrus pith, while the palate adds spice, smoke and minty, fruity elements. Balanced and fragrant, with earthy notes.

Ilegal Reposado 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $110 Mineral

Aged four months in American oak, Illegal Reposado has slightly woody, caramel-like aromas with baked agave, cassia bark and chilli. On the palate there is butterscotch and caramel, soft wood smoke, cedar, pipe tobacco, agave and dried herbs. The finish is oaky with cocoa powder and orange rinds.

Alipús San Andrés 47.7% ABV, 750ml RRP $112.75 Proof & Company

This artisan mezcal is fermented in cypress vats and distilled by Don Valente Angel using agave Espadin grown at about 5,000 feet. It has an intense agave aroma and integrated smoke on the palate.

A powerful tasting mezcal with strong fruit character.

Alipús San Baltazar 47-49% ABV, 750ml RRP $112.75 Proof & Company

This mezcal is produced by Don Cosme Hernandez and hs son Cirilo. They use Maguey Espadin agave, which is roasted in a stone oven pit, then crushed using mule-driven Chilean tahona and fermented in pinewood tubs. It has gentle smoke aromas with flavours of roasted agave, a hint of sweetness, an earthy note and smoky finish.

Alipús San Luis 48% ABV, 750ml RRP $112.75 Proof & Company

Alipús San Luis is made by Mezcalero Don Baltazar, who uses agave Espadin grown in sandy soil at about 4,100 feet above sea level. He ferments the cooked agave in pine vats and distils in copper. His mezcals are rich, full-bodied, and often fruity.

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Le Tribute Mezcal (Cenizo Agave) 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $114.99 Tickety-Boo

Distilled with Cenizo agave from Durango, Mexico. This mezcal is fruity with hints of tropical fruit, citrus, tamarind and a little smokiness with pine notes.

Del Maguey Chichicapa Single Village Mezcal

Mezcal is a new addition to the Casamigos range.

It has aromas of fragrant herbs and fruit, a palate of smoke and black pepper and a long, silky finish.

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 Pernod Ricard

Complex flavours with abundant citrus and a long smooth finish with overtones of mint.

Gracias a Dios Wild Tobala 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 Tickety-Boo

Gracias a Dios Cultivated Tobala 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 Tickety-Boo

Cultivated Tobala provides a very different profile to its older Wild brother (below).

Herbal characters and smoke are present on the nose, while the palate offers fresh cut grass, lime and grapefruit peel. The finish is long and smoky with a light spiciness and dark chocolate aromas.

This mezcal uses agave harvested after 15 years. It is vegetal and funky, with notes of smoke and peat. Balanced and complex on the palate with discreet fruit and spice, and a hint of lime zest. Flavours of capsicum and thyme are balanced with sweet agave notes; slightly tropical with a hint of mint. Long, rounded finish.

Gracias a Dios Coyote 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 Tickety-Boo

Gracias a Dios Madre Cuishe 45% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 Tickety-Boo

Earthy and herbal, with lemon, cucumber and peppermint. A smoky character too, with notes of caramelised sugar.

Casamigos Mezcal 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $150 Federal Merchants

The latest addition to the range from tequila brand Casamigos. This mezcal is made using the traditional method of baking the harvested piñas in earthen pits and then crushing them with a horsedrawn tahona wheel. It has aromas of fragrant herbs and fruit with a hint of smoke, leading to a palate of smoke and black pepper with a long, silky finish.

Ilegal Añejo 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $160 Mineral

A rich and rounded tequila that is aged for 13 months in new American oak barrels.

It has aromas of maple, clove, and bitter orange with dark chocolate and sweet agave on the palate.

This mezcal is herbal and spiced. It has aromas of herbs and grapefruit peel.

Cooked agave adds a caramel quality to the palate, and the finish is smooth, long and smoky.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 84.

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OPINION – SPIRITS

Dominic Roskrow

UK-based world spirits expert Editor - Stills Crazy newwizards.co.uk

A brave new world Dominic Roskrow reflects on the year that was and brings good cheer for the year ahead (thank goodness for that…)

I WAS watching a festive episode of MasterChef: The Professionals recently (don’t ask), recorded last Christmas.

The four contestants were tasked with creating a dish to say farewell to the misery of 2020, and one to cheerfully welcome in 2021.

I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, because here we are, having wasted an entire year. All the optimism of that MasterChef programme has seeped away and the world is a confusing mix of restrictions, lockdowns, COVID passports and jab campaigns. It’s a mess and it isn’t going away any time soon. People are confused, frustrated, and even angry.

Here in the United Kingdom, an unholy row has broken out over the decision of a local council to cancel an outdoor service to commemorate Remembrance Sunday, while allowing hundreds of rock fans to pack into a smallish student rock venue.

But my intention isn’t to pour cask strength whisky on an already painful open wound. The glass might be half empty, but if we try hard enough we can see that it is half full too. Despite all the setbacks of the last 12 months, we’re not in the same place we were at Christmas 2020, for a number of reasons.

Firstly, last year left the hospitality sector reeling. Constant lockdowns, the need to invest in a whole new way of operating, and staff shortages as bar staff looked for employment elsewhere, threatened to punch a massive hole in the profits of many outlets.

Now, the new operating methods are in place and when allowed to, pubs and bars are as advanced as any sector when 74 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

Hospitality has bounced back in the United Kingdom and is trading at pre-pandemic levels. it comes to welcoming customers back.

Scant consolation in those cities where lockdown still applies, I know, but a year ago the UK hospitality sector was in dire straits. Today, hospitality has bounced back in the United Kingdom and is trading at pre-pandemic levels.

The more positive situation was best summed up by the return of visitors to The Whisky Show in London. Last year it was held virtually, and tasting whisky virtually is, to quote rock writer Lester Bangs, like dancing to architecture. This year, with strictly limited numbers and a set of regulations in place, it felt like a carnival. The reduced numbers made it a comfortable and relaxed experience and the atmosphere was akin to a fancy dress party, with people in the mindset to enjoy themselves from the outset.

Unlike 2021, when plans have been put on hold, expect a flurry of exciting new spirits in 2022. The smaller producers,

struggling to get bottles, packaging or labels in 2021, are playing catch up.

I know of at least three companies who should have launched whiskies for Christmas but are now set to do so from February 2022. The drinks industry is like a Formula One race: all the cars are on the grid, revving their engines – and the lights are just about to go out to start the race.

In Europe, canny entrepreneurs are taking advantage of slashed rents and leases in city centres where COVID has wreaked havoc, and are looking to bring drinks lovers new and exciting bars and retail outlets. The Japanese-style bar in apartment blocks is just one concept that may well be rolled out in cities across the world.

COVID won’t go away, but it’s not all doom and gloom. We’re learning to live with it. And it may well be taking us on an inspired journey towards a brave world.

We can but hope.

SPIRITS NEWS

SHOWCASE

America discovers NZ’s premium vodka IT ALL began in W naka, the way so many great Kiwi stories begin: two mates, sharing a drink, yarning about how they could make the world more interesting.

That yarn grew into Broken Shed, which has been New Zealand’s premium vodka for over a decade, just quietly.

It’s a simple recipe, reflected in its clean and crisp taste, warm finish and smooth mouthfeel. No added sugars, no additives. No gluten, no GMOs. Just the purest vodka, that regularly beats the world’s best in blind taste tests.

Taking on the US

That quality and simplicity, paired with New Zealand’s forward-thinking reputation, has led to great success in America. You’ll find Broken Shed in 26 states and counting, including the bright lights of Las Vegas where you can order a glass of Broken Shed at the world-famous MGM Grand and Bellagio casinos.

Broken Shed has picked up a range

of international awards, including gold medals at the 2021 San Diego Spirits Festival and the 2021 Distilled Spirits and Cocktail Festival. But it’s still made right here in New Zealand: same W naka water, same W naka recipe.

and 31 January, showcases what we love about our South Island home. The spirit of adventure and discovery, and commitment to natural purity that goes into every bottle. You’ll find competition details at brokenshed.com/wild-wanaka/

Dedicated to helping Kiwis discover

Broken Shed is distributed by Federal Merchants & Co. Discover cocktail recipes and more inspiration at brokenshed.com

Broken Shed

The ‘Win a Wild W naka Experience’ competition, running between 1 December

SPIRITS NEWS

Good George does good GOOD GEORGE has released the first in its limited-edition series of Be Good Do Good Gin, in partnership with Sustainable Coastlines and artist Component.

Sustainable Coastlines delivers coastal clean-up events, educational programmes, public awareness campaigns, and riparian planting projects.

Good George says it has partnered with Sustainable Coastlines to remove 180,000 litres (or 1,500 large supermarket trollies) of rubbish from the beaches of New Zealand’s coastline. Each month, Good George plans to release a new gin with artwork designed by Component that showcases one of the marine animals affected by litter left behind by Kiwis.

Each gin release will be limited to 1,000 bottles with $10 from every bottle going directly back to Sustainable Coastlines.

The first is Good George Lazy Lemon Gin, which is infused with fresh lemon and citrus zest and features a kekeno (NZ fur seal) on its label.

Limited edition prints of each Sustainable Coastlines Series Gin artwork

SHOWCASE

Summer calls for Lind & Lime LIND & Lime Gin is a premium Scottish craft gin produced by The Port of Leith Distillery in Edinburgh and now available in New Zealand through distributor Giesen Group.

With such a wide range of gins available these days, Lind & Lime was created as a return to the quintessential classic London Dry Gin: it is a delicate balance of juniper and lime with the gentle spice of pink peppercorns.

A benchmark London Dry Gin, Lind & Lime is crisp, refreshing and delicious.

The makers of Lind & Lime say that “balance” was their watchword in the creation of the gin. “This concept, borrowed from the world of wine, dictates that every flavour in our gin should work in delicate harmony, without a single dominant characteristic.”

Lind & Lime is made using organic neutral grain spirit from Switzerland with classic botanicals of juniper, lime, pink peppercorns, angelica root, liquorice root, orris root and coriander seed.

The multi-award winning gin takes its name from 19th century ship’s surgeon James Lind, who became known for his work on the efficacy of citrus, such as lime, in preventing scurvy in sailors.

Lind & Lime’s striking bottle design references the wine trade through Leith

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that dates back to the 14th century and the local glass and bottle production in the area.

For a perfect G&T

The makers of Lind & Lime have tested a wide range of tonics and mixers with the gin. Lind & Lime is complex and delicate, and the flavours they have created can easily be overwhelmed by many brands of tonic water. They therefore recommend Fever Tree Refreshingly Light Tonic and Schweppes Signature Crisp Tonic for G&Ts, as they allow the flavours of Lind & Lime to shine through.

Lind & Lime 44% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Aroma: On the nose, juniper and pink peppercorns dominate with the lime emerging as a sweet citrus scent with a hint of liquorice.

Taste: On the palate, the lime zest, pepper and juniper are all in gentle harmony, with a smooth texture derived from the citrus oils that make it very sippable, with peppercorns lingering on the finish.

Lind & Lime is available through Giesen Group on 03 344 6270 or giesen.co.nz

will also be available to order with $15 from every print sold going directly to Sustainable Coastlines.

Good George Lazy Lemon Gin (40% ABV), 700ml RRP $79 Good George

NEW ZEALAND’S PREMIUM VODKA. Blended from an ancient Southern Alps mineral water, a pure spring water and whey distillate. Clean and crisp, with a smooth warm finish.

No gluten. No GMOs. No added sugars. No additives. Just the purest vodka around.

WIN A WILD WANAKA EXPERIENCE. Through December and January, we’re giving Broken Shed customers the chance to win their very own Wild Wanaka Experience. Flights, two nights’ accommodation and wild adventures.* Find out more at brokenshed.com/wild-wanaka/ *Terms & Conditions Apply.

SPIRITS NEWS

Vanuatu limes to the rescue ORGANIC TAHITIAN limes grown in Vanuatu are arriving in New Zealand to help fill the gap in New Zealand’s lime production over summer.

Prices for limes can skyrocket during New Zealand growers’ off-season between August and February, soaring to $88 per kilogram last year, at a time when produce levels in Vanuatu are high and growers struggle to make the most of their crops.

The project to get lime exports up and running from Vanuatu to New Zealand started in 2018 as an initiative in conjunction with the Vanuatu Government and New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, facilitated by Dynamic Supplies Vanuatu and New Zealand food distributor The Produce Company.

It was trialled for a season in 2020 before compliance issues brought the project to a halt. Now, a year later, the first lime shipment from Vanuatu of the season has arrived in Auckland with the Ministry for Primary Industries continually working with Biosecurity Vanuatu to strengthen the Pacific nation’s export procedures.

John Stokes from The Produce Company says he hopes the initiative will help reduce lime prices in New Zealand’s off-season and that this will be the first of many shipments to help out our Pacific neighbours who have limited exports.

“Vanuatu has always supplied many seasonal workers under the RSE scheme

to help out Kiwi orchardists so it’s nice to return the favour and help support Vanuatu’s agriculture industry as well.

We hope the pathway we’ve created will allow for some of these workers to develop more horticultural produce from Vanuatu. It’s a trade route that can benefit both countries.”

Extra produce to meet local demand is usually imported from the USA and Australia but Vanuatu’s Tahitian Limes are a preferred alternative. They travel fewer air miles to get here and are organic by nature due to the lack of funds that growers have for spray fertilisers. produce.co.nz

The perfect gin to your tonic.

From the foothills of Mt Fyffe Kaikōura, two award winning small-batch artisan gins infusing unique botanics, from the mountains to the sea.

Discover more: mtfyffedistillery.co.nz

SPIRITS NEWS

The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails FOR THOSE who are serious about their cocktails, The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails is a must-have. Published in November this year, it is the first major reference work to cover the subject from a global perspective and presents an in-depth exploration of the world of spirits and cocktails. The Companion covers drinks, processes, and techniques, and clear explanations of the different ways that spirits are produced, including fermentation, distillation, and ageing. It examines the emergence of cocktails and cocktail bars, including entries on key cocktails and influential mixologists and cocktail bars and also features a timeline of spirits and distillation and a guide to mixing drinks.

The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails is available from selected bookstores and online.

SHOWCASE

Vesta Coffee Vodka – a darker side FROM THE house of Juno, comes Vesta Coffee Vodka. Made with Ozone Coffee beans, it’s a complex spirit with notes of coffee, chocolate and dark berries. Discover it today...

Electric Storm

Espresso Martini

Ingredients: 30ml Vesta Coffee Vodka Orange Bitters Ginger beer Mandarin for garnish Method: Fill a short glass with ice.

Add Vesta Coffee Vodka.

Add a dash of Orange Bitters.

Top with ginger beer.

Stir, and garnish with a mandarin slice.

Ingredients 45ml Vesta Coffee Vodka 30ml Kahlua 30ml Espresso Method: In a shaker, add all ingredients.

Shake with ice.

Strain into a Martini glass.

Garnish with coffee beans or chocolate flakes.

Vesta Coffee Vodka by Juno is available on vestavodka.co.nz and at Juno’s cellar door. For stockist orders, contact Juno directly.

DramFest sells out for 2022

WHISKY GALORE’S 8th biennial whisky festival DramFest has sold out in record time for the Christchurch event in February 2022.

DramFest is New Zealand’s largest whisky tasting and education festival and has become an iconic event on the drinks industry calendar.

The 2022 event will be held from 26-27 February at the brandnew Te Pae Christchurch Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets went on sale on 1 November and were snapped up for the event, which is expected to attract more than 2,500 whisky enthusiasts.

Whisky Galore says that after the success of previous years, Rum will return as the ‘Guest Spirit’ for the event.

It says there will be more than 300 different whisky and rum expressions available to sample from distilleries, producers and independent bottlers from Scotland, Japan, Ireland, America, New Zealand and around the world.

Whisky and rum experts from New Zealand and overseas will host exclusive tasting sessions over the course of the weekend, both in person and virtually.

dramfest.co.nz 80 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

UK export deal for Dancing Sands DANCING SANDS Distillery has secured an export deal with established UK wine and spirits importer Enotria&Coe. The Golden Bay distillery says that its Dancing Sands Dry, Sun-Kissed and Sauvignon Blanc gins are available immediately through UK online spirits retailer Spirits Kiosk and listings in retail stores, bars and restaurants are underway too.

“We are excited to finally have Dancing Sands Distillery in our portfolio,” says Enotria&Coe Managing Director, Ants Rixon. “With the interruption of COVID-19, it’s taken almost two years since first talking to finally launching.”

Dancing Sands’ Founder and Managing Director, Sarah Bonoma, says she is thrilled to be entering the United Kingdom and expects this initial deal to see the distillery’s export growth double in the short term and become 50% of Dancing Sands’ total sales within the next three years.

"As a New Zealand-based gin producer, launching in the home of gin is an incredible milestone for us,” says Sarah Bonoma. “As a Brit myself, there's a heightened sense of achievement personally. The current COVID-19 travel restrictions mean I can't be with my family and friends in the UK physically, but by launching Dancing Sands there, something we created can."

Dancing Sands launched in 2016 and has grown from the husband-and-wife team of Sarah and Ben Bonoma to seven employees, with its range available in more than 500 liquor stores, bars, and restaurants across New Zealand. It also exports into the US and Canada.

Distributed by Federal Merchants

Reefton wraps it up REEFTON DISTILLING Co. is offering a stylish advent calendar for grownups, filled with the West Coast distillery’s range of international award-winning spirits and liqueurs.

Presented in a New Zealand-made gift box, the Reefton Distilling Co. 2021 Advent Calendar has 24 pockets, each holding one 50ml miniature bottle from the Reefton Distilling Co. range. It would no doubt be just as welcome under the tree on Christmas Day. RRP $399. reeftondistillingco.com

More flavours from Mexico DISTRIBUTOR MINERAL is bringing in a new selection of unique spirits from Mexico that sit outside the traditional definitions of tequila and mezcal but are made in similar styles. James Barber of Mineral says the raicilla, bacanora and sotol offer different characteristics and regional variations. He says with Mexican spirits becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand the new additions will intrigue consumers keen to widen their horizons and help to expand traditional tequila and mezcal offerings.

The new brands arriving at Mineral in February include: • Raicilla La Venenosa and Raicilla Bonete Raicilla is a spirit made from agave using a similar method to mezcal and made in the south-west of Jalisco. The name translates as “little root” and was adopted in the 18th century so producers could avoid paying the tax that was levied on mezcal at the time.

• Bacanora Yoowe Bacanora is a spirit made in the Mexican state of Sonora. As with raicilla, it is made in a similar fashion to mezcal.

• Sotol La Higuera Sotol is a spirit made from another desert plant called Dasylirion (like a small agave) and made using methods close to that of mezcal.

Distributed by Mineral

Vesta Coffee Vodka.

The rich smooth sugar-free alternative.

Pure high-altitude Ozone Coffee beans distilled to perfection. Coffee, chocolate and dark berry notes make this the perfect addition to your Espresso Martini or coffee cocktail.

From the house of Juno, this sister spirit explores our darker side.

Order online at:

junogin.com/vesta-vodka

DISTRIBUTORS DIRECTORY

Distributors 8-Wired

Dhall & Nash

McCashin’s Brewery

Q Liquid

022 106 1709 8wired.co.nz

0800 369 463 dnfinewine.com

03 547 5357 mccashins.co.nz

09 636 7730 qll.co.nz

Asahi Beverages NZ

Emerson’s

McLeod’s Brewery

Red + White Cellar

09 298 3000 asahibeverages.co.nz

03 477 1812 emersons.co.nz

021 382 342 mcleodsbrewery.co.nz

0800 946 379 redwhitecellar.co.nz

Astrolabe Wines

Emporium Brewing

Mineral

Regional Wines & Spirits

03 577 6794 astrolabewines.co.nz

03 319 5897 emporiumbrewing.co.nz

orders@mineralwine.co.nz mineral.co.nz

04 385 6952 regionalwines.co.nz

Bach Brewing

Epic Beer

Mission Estate

Sawmill Brewery

09 390 0149 bachbrewing.co.nz

0800 212 337 epicbeer.com

06 845 9350 missionestate.co.nz

09 422 6555 sawmillbrewery.co.nz

Badass Beverages

EuroVintage

Mt Fyffe Distillery

Sprig + Fern

hello@badassbeverages.co.nz badassbeverages.co.nz

0800 388 766 eurovintage.co.nz

021 135 4796 mtfyffedistillery.co.nz

03 544 8675 sprigandfern.co.nz

Beam Suntory

Federal Merchants

Moët Hennessy

St Vincent’s Cave

0800 69 23 37 beamsuntory.com

0800 846 824 federalmerchants.co.nz

0800 226 650 moethennessy.com

09 550 6908 stvincentscave.com

Behemoth Brewing

Forrest Wines

Moy Hall

Thirsty Camel

09 948 0425 behemothbrewing.co.nz

03 572 9084 forrest.co.nz

06 929 7305 moyhall.nz

info@thirstycamel.co.nz thirstycamel.co.nz

Beverage Brothers

Garage Project

Negociants

Tickety-Boo Liquor

03 390 1377 beveragebrothers.co.nz

021 186 4081 garageproject.co.nz

0800 634 624 negociantsnz.com

09 377 7597 tickety-boo.co.nz

Boneface Brewing

Giesen Group

No. 1 Family Estate

Villa Maria

04 529 7042 boneface-brewing.com

03 344 6270 giesen.co.nz

03 572 9876 no1familyestate.co.nz

0800 505 656 villamaria.co.nz

Clearview Estate

Good George

Peckham’s Cider

Vintners

06 875 0150 clearviewestate.co.nz

07 846 9364 goodgeorge.co.nz

03 543 2959 peckhams.co.nz

0800 687 9463 vintners.co.nz

Coal Pit Wine

Hancocks

Pernod Ricard

Whisky Galore

0800 0200 44 coalpitwine.com

0800 699 463 hancocks.co.nz

0800 655 550 pernod-ricard-nz.com

03 377 6824 trade.whiskygalore.co.nz

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners NZ 0800 692 337 cocacolaep.com

DB Breweries 0800 746 432 db.co.nz

Kono

The Premium Liquor Co.

Whitehaven

03 546 8648 kono.co.nz

09 975 7432 premiumliquor.co.nz

021 738 315 whitehaven.co.nz

Lion

Procure Liquor

0800 107 272 lionco.com

021 393 652 procureliquor.co.nz

Long Breeze Distributors

Proof & Company

027 205 2795 longbreezedistributors.co.nz

ordersnz@proofandcompany.com proofandcompany.com

84 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

EXCLUSIVELY DISTRIBUTED BY WHISKY GALORE E: trade@whiskygalore.co.nz | P: 0800 WHISKY (944 759) 834 Colombo Street, Christchurch

LAST ORDERS – MELANIE KEES

Brewing ideas Melanie Kees is the new Executive Director at the Brewers Guild NZ – she gives us her view of the industry and where she sees the challenges and opportunities ahead…

On her background

On the challenges ahead

“I actually started in tourism and then I went to work in the satellite communications industry. From there I was seconded to work on the World Rally Championships. I travelled the world with that and then ended up back in New Zealand working for the promotional arm of membership-based organisation, MotorSport New Zealand.

Following that was a stint at Highlands Motorsport Park in Central Otago and then the last six years have been at Otago Polytechnic’s Central campus where I looked after all their marketing and business development. I also worked on the development of the campus brewery and the implementation of the first suite of brewing qualifications in New Zealand.

The qualifications were a really exciting development for the industry and it was amazing to be involved. This year we had 18 brewing students who have just graduated, so that’s a really big chunk of the brewing industry workforce that we’re helping to fill. It was also fortuitous that due to COVID the government brought out a scheme called ‘TTAF’ (Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund) which meant that the brewing qualifications were fees-free.”

“There are some big conversations happening at government level around excise tax and then there’s other regulatory activity around the container refund scheme and labelling. COVID still presents lots of unknowns, but one thing I can say already, hand on heart, is that the industry and our members seem to be a resilient bunch who are really good at pivoting and making the most of pretty average situations.”

On the opportunities ahead

“It feels like we’re almost on the cusp of a really big change to people’s perceptions around beer.” different and challenging, but I think the 838 entries we just had in our recent Beer Awards is testament to our strength.”

On how she sees the brewing industry

On how she sees her role

“The industry is evolving, as are many industries, but with brewing you’ve got that combination of heritage and innovation which I think puts us in a good position – we've got a good grounding which is important. Globally, there's so much happening, and as Kiwis we are often found to be leading the way, so we continue to grow and can stand proud that what we are producing is right up there with some of the larger beer producing nations. The size of the industry in New Zealand allows us to be innovative while keeping the integrity of the industry and the beer really strong. This new COVID world that we're working in is

“Having previously been with a memberbased organisation, I really like that type of work. You generally all have a common goal, which makes it even more special when you’ve got successes to celebrate. The purpose of my role is to be a champion for our industry as a whole, advocate for our members and to promote and grow the beer category in New Zealand. Regulatory and governance work is really important, but so is the promotion and marketing of the industry and the opportunities. Probably most important is to be an excellent communicator both to our members and for our members.”

86 DRINKSBIZ DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022

“The industry has so much potential.

Because I’ve been based in Central Otago for the last 12 years, I’ve been surrounded by the wine industry and I see a lot of comparisons. I think that there are some amazing opportunities with beer tourism that we need to fully explore.

The wine industry is further ahead than brewing in lots of ways, but that means that we’ve got some really exciting times ahead of us. I feel that there is potentially a really big piece of work there about educating a lot of the decision makers that the brewing industry really is the next wine industry and we deserve the effort and investment to help take us to the next level.

There are also some opportunities in the low- to no-alcohol beer market, which might not be a massive market, but it is part of a bigger picture for beer in New Zealand. It feels like we’re almost on the cusp of a really big change to people’s perceptions around beer.”

On where to from here…

“The people I’ve met so far have been really welcoming and there’s a lot to be excited about. I’m just soaking up as much as I can. And to be honest, I think that for the next few months there’ll be lots of work happening, but I just need to do a lot of listening and a lot of talking to people. Hopefully face-to-face!”

HANCOCKS

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