Drinksbiz June July 2023

Victoria Wells Editor – Drinksbiz victoria@drinksbiz.co.nz

Making good choices

WHEN CHOOSING somewhere to have a drink, selecting a bottle of spirits to add to the cocktail cabinet, or deciding on which wine to take to a friend’s for dinner, it seems more and more consumers are considering the sustainability practices behind a venue or brand.

New research from CGA by NIQ* has found that nearly half of New Zealand consumers (42%) consider sustainability or ethical credentials when deciding where to eat and drink, and about a third (30%) also take this into account when ordering drinks. (You can read more about these findings in our feature story on page 16.)

The looming threat of the climate crisis has meant that good practice is firmly front and centre for individuals and businesses, and considering ways in which to operate more sustainably has become a key pillar for major global drinks brands as well as the smallest craft breweries.

My picks

There are so many ways in which businesses and brands are doing their bit for the planet: sourcing ingredients from local growers and using sustainable packaging through to major undertakings like carbon neutral assessment and certification or achieving the B Corp global standard.

And then there are those like Kāpiti distillery The Bond Store, who have been operating their own bottle recycling scheme since 2019, and are now calling on local and central government to better support small businesses that are innovating to reduce waste and emissions.

Work in this area is certainly escalating at pace. In this issue alone, we have news about Otago Peninsula distillery Sandymount becoming the first New Zealand distillery to be certified carbon neutral (pg 12), as well as Tiraki becoming the first New Zealand wine brand to achieve B Corp status (pg 32).

So, hats off to those who are on the way with this journey already, and here’s to more taking the path.

Enjoy the issue, Victoria.

2020 Martinborough Vineyards Te Tera Pinot Noir

A sumptuous Pinot Noir from a renowned Pinot winemaking region, in an exceptional vintage and at an incredible price point. (Pg 23)

Emerson’s Little Bird

One of my favourite breweries (and brewers) since WAY back, Richard Emerson and his team have dropped the mic with their debut in the fast-growing no-alc category. Little Bird IPA is full of flavour, less than 0.5% ABV and destined for greatness. (Pg 37)

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14YO

Worlds collide in this whisky that is finished in casks that once held Caribbean rum. It’s deliciously smooth and honeyed with notes of toffee and a hint of fruit. Perfection. (Pg 62).

*CGA by NIQ’s ‘On-Premise New Zealand Consumer Pulse Report - April 2023’ (cgastrategy.com)

Considering ways in which to operate more sustainably has become a key pillar for major global drinks brands as well as the smallest craft breweries.

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

ADVERTISING

Roger Pierce advertising@drinksbiz.co.nz

+64 274 335 354 drinksbiz.co.nz

Associate Member (NZ)

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Sunset vibes with Coruba

WHEN YOU think of rum in New Zealand, it’s hard to look past Coruba, which first landed on our shores more than 50 years ago.

The Jamaican rum has been one of the top-selling rums in New Zealand for over 40 years and remains a firm favourite with Kiwi consumers today: Coruba is the #1 Rum in New Zealand by volume, and the #2 Rum by value* (second only to its island neighbour, Appleton Estate).

It’s clear that Coruba resonates with Kiwis and now the brand is building on that connection with a fresh new campaign featuring evocative sunset imagery and the tagline “Sun down, Vibe up”. The new Coruba campaign is rolling out nationwide across print, social and Out of home advertising, supporting an in-store promotion currently running with Huski Coolers, and with more exciting initiatives to be delivered throughout the year.

Scott Fairbairn, Marketing Director at Thirsty Camel, a joint venture of Campari Group, says the campaign is designed to capture that special feeling when the sun goes down. “In Jamaica, the birthplace of Coruba, it’s called the ‘Sunset Effect’. Our new campaign reminds us of that Jamaican sunset vibe, with Coruba delivering the Jamaican taste.”

The legacy of Coruba

Stephen Burke, National Brand Ambassador for Coruba, says that while Coruba is a familiar brand for New Zealanders, most wouldn’t know that it is a rum with a Caribbean heritage that goes back over 100 years.

First established on the Caribbean island of Jamaica in 1889, Coruba was known as Compagnie Rhumière de Bâle (The Basel Rum Company) in its early days. It is the initials of this original parent

company from which Coruba draws its name: Compagnie Rhumière de Bâle (CO-RHU-BA).

From this original globetrotting company, The Rum Company Kingston was set up in 1929 and later purchased by the stalwart of the Jamaican rumproducing scene: J. Wray & Nephew Co.

Crafted in Jamaica

In 2016, Jamaican Rum was given the protection of a Geographical Indication (GI). This identifies a product as originating in a certain place and having qualities or a reputation due to that origin, such as Champagne or Scotch Whisky.

Burke says that for a spirit to be called “Jamaican Rum” it must be produced by following a number of strict protocols. This gives consumers around the world confidence that when they purchase a product declaring “Jamaican Rum” on the

A fresh new campaign from Coruba is bringing sunset vibes to Kiwi consumers…

label (whether it’s pure spirit or an RTD) they know the rum inside is made to an exacting and authentic standard.

The Jamaican Rum Geographical Indication states that if a product is aged, then this process must happen in oak barrels, and on the island of Jamaica. All Coruba rum – including the spirit used in Coruba RTDs – is aged this way for a minimum of two years.

It is this dedication to quality and authentic Jamaican craft that has made Coruba such a popular choice with Kiwi consumers. “Coruba is a brand that Kiwis know and love,” says Scott Fairbairn, “and our new campaign is a call to enjoy that Jamaican vibe year-round.”

Coruba is distributed in New Zealand by Thirsty Camel, a joint venture of Campari Group. Order from Thirsty Camel, Tasman Allied, Trents, Gilmours and all good wholesalers.

The Coruba range

Campari increases stake in Thirsty Camel

CAMPARI GROUP has become the majority shareholder in New Zealand distributor Thirsty Camel Limited. The move comes after Thirsty Camel, a Campari Group joint venture company, began distributing the full Campari portfolio in New Zealand on 1 January this year.

Thirsty Camel was established in 2004 and markets and distributes global brands including Coruba, Appleton Estate, Wild Turkey, Aperol, SKYY Vodka and Campari. In addition, Thirsty Camel Limited will continue to distribute a number of other brands, including FeverTree, Kraken and Disaronno.

With the change in shareholding, Brad Madigan has been appointed to the role of Managing Director. Most recently, Madigan was Managing Director of Campari UK and before that, Sales Director at Campari Australia. Titch Hay, founder of Thirsty Camel, will continue to play a critical role in the business as Commercial Sales and Agency Brand Director.

Asahi Beverages NZ expands beer distribution

ASAHI BEVERAGES New Zealand has expanded its presence in the New Zealand beer market, becoming the official distributor of Asahi Beverages’ Australian beer brands from 1 May.

The brands include Victoria Bitter, Pure Blonde and Foster’s.

Under the new distribution arrangement, the beers will continue to be brewed in Australia by Asahi Beverages’ Australian alcohol division, Carlton &

Fever-Tree announces first NZ leadership role

PREMIUM MIXER company Fever-Tree has announced its first leadership appointment in New Zealand.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Campari. We have strong ambitions for the New Zealand market and the Thirsty Camel joint venture is integral to our next phase of growth,” says Brad Madigan.

“This announcement not only demonstrates our commitment to growing Campari’s footprint in New Zealand, but also diversifying the local industry through our increased investment in Thirsty Camel. We will be adding a number of new roles to the joint venture, more than doubling the current team, so the opportunity ahead of us is exciting.”

“This increased investment from Campari is a demonstration of the confidence Campari has in Thirsty Camel’s potential for growth in New Zealand and all the opportunities which this will bring,” said Titch Hay.

Andre Browne takes on the newly created role of Country Manager, New Zealand. He will have responsibility for building brand awareness and solidifying the brand’s strong footprint across national and regional grocery retailers while continuing to develop strategic partnerships with grocery, traditional liquor and on-premise customers.

The UK-based brand says the appointment follows strong performance in 2022 and signals its intentions to strategically align and supercharge its growth in the New Zealand market.

Andy Gaunt, Managing Director ANZ Fever-Tree, says it is a milestone hire for Fever-Tree in New Zealand. “Andre joins us at an exciting moment as we look to increase our presence and growth in the New Zealand market.”

After two years working as Global Senior Brand Manager for boutique London gin brand, Sipsmith, Browne more recently worked at Asahi where he managed its RTD portfolio in New Zealand.

United Breweries, before they are shipped to Asahi Beverages NZ (ABNZ).

Asahi Beverages New Zealand CEO Andrew Campbell said: “This is an incredibly exciting announcement for Asahi Beverages New Zealand. It will support our continued growth and expansion. Many Kiwis love these iconic Australian brands. Pure Blonde and Victoria Bitter in particular enjoy a cult following in New Zealand.”

Brad Madigan – MD of Thirsty Camel

Andre Browne

Hawke’s Bay named 12th Great Wine Capital of the world

HAWKE’S BAY has been named a ‘Great Wine Capital’ of the world, setting it alongside 11 other prestigious wine regions such as Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Bilbao, and Adelaide.

Admission to the Great Wine Capitals programme, as the 12th Capital worldwide, comes after a stringent selection process that looks at a region’s winegrowing industry, its history, wine tourism, educational opportunities, business, and travel, as well as the cities and region itself.

Saxton, said it’s a remarkable milestone for the region. “It is recognition that Hawke’s Bay wines are among the world’s best, and that our nation’s wine growing industry, while still young, offers quality to rival the world’s oldest. This new achievement gives Hawke’s Bay a unique positioning in New Zealand and the world. Becoming a Great Wine Capital will also give a significant boost to the region’s post-cyclone recovery, particularly with the wine industry already generating an estimated $300 million direct revenue to the Hawke’s Bay

Bacardi appoints new MD for Aus/NZ

BACARDI LIMITED has announced the appointment of Luiz Schmidt as Managing Director of Bacardi in Australia and New Zealand.

In his new role, Schmidt will lead Bacardi’s Australia and New Zealand operations, including overseeing the sales, marketing, finance and supply chain functions as well as leadership in continuing to craft the company’s culture, which is a Great Place to Work® in Australia.

He will also focus on accelerating the strength of the company’s portfolio of premium brands, expanding its market share and portfolio footprint while continuing to drive sustainable growth in the region.

Schmidt will be based in Australia after returning from Panama, where he most recently served as Regional Marketing Director for Bacardi in Latin America and the Caribbean.

economy and contributing $156m to GDP. The accolade will further increase Hawke’s Bay’s global recognition and will give it access to additional expertise, resources, and support from the best of the global wine and tourism industries.”

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive, René de Monchy, said the announcement is a huge boost for the region. “Travellers are looking for world-class offerings and this global accolade provides that assurance and puts Hawke’s Bay alongside the world’s best wine experiences.”

The Trusts plans $40m+ hospo and retail investment in Auckland

THE TRUSTS plans to open up to 10 new hospitality venues and retail stores in Auckland’s west over the next five years, investing more than $40 million over that time.

The organisation has a community mandate to operate liquor licences in the region and its newly-released five-year strategic plan contains details of the largest capital expenditure in its 50-year history as local population numbers are forecast to grow significantly.

The Trusts says it is aiming to grow annual revenues by 23% to $160 million within five years.

The planned venues will range in size from 50-500m2 and are expected to introduce innovative new restaurant and bar concepts and provide additional sites to match the projected population growth in suburbs throughout the region.

Allan Pollard, CEO of The Trusts, says West Auckland

has seen significant population growth in recent years and a new contemporary hospitality model will be launched as a result of feedback from the local community.

“What we know about the arrival of new residents to the region is they have different experiences and expectations of hospitality models than what has been available in the West to date. To accommodate this emerging segment of the market, we are looking at a number of offerings ranging from boutique pop-up bars and restaurant-led gastro pubs within walking distance of public transport hubs and major apartment complexes, through to large-scale venues which can accommodate up to 300 people.

“We also expect this move to benefit New Zealand’s craft beer industry as we bring in new concepts, such as the creation of a new Garage Project bar inside one of our retail outlets,” he says.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism CEO, Hamish

Wine industry comps gearing up

Nicky Grandorge of New Zealand Winegrowers has the latest from the Young Vit and Young Winemaker competitions…

THE 2023 Young Vit season kicked off with mini viticultural expos around the country – a great opportunity to get viticulturists and industry specialists together to network and learn about new products and services to enhance vineyards. From the soil through to pruning, exhibitors shared their knowledge on nutrients, soil biology, rootstock, vine growth, machinery, netting and the latest electronic secateurs. This range of knowledge and skills required to grow quality grapes is what makes viticulture such an interesting and exciting career.

The competitions will take place around the country during June and July, culminating with the National Final

at Paritua Estate in Hawke’s Bay on 30 August. The 2023 Young Viticulturist of the Year will be announced at the Awards Dinner the following night.

The Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year competitions will take place in September this year. However, the 2022 National Finalists have just enjoyed one of their prizes –an educational trip to Martinborough provided by Fruitfed Supplies. They enjoyed meeting up again outside of the competition and were inspired by this pioneering region, which continues to experiment and push boundaries. The finalists were Alun Kilby, Marisco (2022 winner); Georgia Mehlhopt of Greystone, Eliana Leal of Amisfield and Douw Grobler of Trinity Hill. They enjoyed catching up with Ben McNab, the 2021 winner who is now Winemaker at Dry River.

Star Hospitality deal completed

THE KĀPURA Group and Joylab are now united as Star Hospitality, the largest hospitality group in the country.

The deal was completed in late April, with DB Breweries (major shareholder in Joylab) acquiring the remaining

shares in Joylab and merging Joylab with Kāpura to create Star Hospitality.

The newly formed group owns and operates 55 establishments in Wellington, Hutt Valley, Hamilton, Tauranga and Auckland. These venues

Sandymount first NZ distillery to be certified carbon neutral

SANDYMOUNT DISTILLERY on the Otago Peninsula has achieved carbon neutral status, making it the first distillery in New Zealand to reach the milestone.

It has been certified by Ekos – a New Zealand organisation that offers carbon measurement and offsetting services through funding sustainable forest growth and protection.

are made up of gastro pubs catering for a suburban market, and high-volume bars situated in key locations including the Wellington waterfront, Westfield shopping centres, Auckland and Wellington domestic airports and CBDs.

WinePRO set for Blenheim in 2024

TRADE EVENT WinePRO is coming to Marlborough in 2024 – showcasing the latest technology and products in the wine industry

The event will be held at Stadium 2000 in Blenheim from 25-27 June, 2024 and has been a vision of the Marlborough District Council and Wine Marlborough. It will feature a variety of exhibitors, including leading suppliers of wine production equipment, vineyard management tools and other industry-related products. The event will also feature a dedicated conference programme and workshops.

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor said: “This event is an opportunity for us to celebrate New Zealand’s international reputation as a wine producer, as well as cement Marlborough’s place as a hub of technology and innovation. With our region accounting for over three-quarters of New Zealand’s wine production, Marlborough is the perfect place to host this fantastic new event.”

For details contact Gary Fitz-Roy on garyf@expertiseevents.com.au

Sandymount has been in commercial operation since May 2021, and owner and distiller Richard Wilson says he was delighted to have achieved the certification before the business’s second birthday.

The Ekos certification, which needs to be renewed annually, assesses every aspect of the business, considering the carbon outputs against the carbon mitigation measures.

Wilson, who is also the chair of Distilled Spirits Aotearoa, has prior experience in facility management so could factor in carbon mitigations as he was developing the distillery site. Some of those include a 7.8kw solar system fed by 20 roof-mounted panels, which powers 90% of the stills’ output; native reforestation of distillery land; use of botanicals and fruit grown on-site; use of on-site water for the spirits; and use of rainwater as a coolant in the distillation process, meaning no chemical coolants or refrigerants.

Wilson says that the largest contributor to Sandymount Distillery’s carbon footprint is travel and freight. “To offset our biggest carbon uses, we’re investing in planting native forests, both on site at Sandymount, with a planting plan of 2000 native trees over 36 months, and through the Ekos carbon zero certification plan at Kanuka hill in Uruwhenua, Mōhua (Golden Bay).

He says the distillery’s next goal is working out how to reduce its footprint entirely to become carbon zero.

Richard Wilson

Diary Dates

JUNE

Friday 2 - Friday 23 June

F.A.W.C! Winter Series – Hawke’s Bay

A series of unique culinary events with top chefs, winemakers and other craft producers. fawc.co.nz

Thursday 8 - Friday 9 June

Distillation NZ 23 – Akld

A conference for New Zealand’s distilling industry to be held at The Hilton Auckland. distilledspiritsaotearoa.org.nz

Friday 9 June

NZ Spirits Awards Gala Dinner – Akld

The awards dinner for NZ Spirits Awards. spiritsawardsnz.nz

Monday 12 - Wednesday 14 June

Negociants Fine Wine Tour

Negociants New Zealand is showcasing a selection of award-winning New Zealand and Australian wines from its portfolio at three events in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. Trade customers can register for the trade sessions (website below) from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. The public can purchase tickets through the website for the 6pm-8pm

sessions. The events will be held in Auckland at The Hilton on Monday 12 June, at the Christchurch Town Hall on Tuesday 13 June, and at Te Wharewaka in Wellington on Wednesday 14 June. negociants.com/nz/events

Friday 16 - Saturday 17 June

Winetopia – Wellington

Boutique and premium wine producers plus masterclasses at the TSB Arena. winetopia.co.nz

Sunday 25 - Tuesday 27 June

Fine Food NZ – Auckland

A trade showcase of food service, hospitality and food and beverage retail. Includes the Restaurant Association’s Hospo Hui. finefoodnz.co.nz

Tuesday 27 - Wednesday 28 June

Hospitality NZ Conference – Auckland

A two-day conference and trade show for the hospitality and accommodation sectors. hospitality.org.nz/s/conference

Wednesday 28 June

Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence –Auckland

The black-tie Gala Dinner for the 25th Hospitality Awards for Excellence. hospitality.org.nz/s/awards

JULY

Friday 21 - Saturday 22 July

Winetopia – Auckland

Boutique and premium wine producers plus masterclasses at the Viaduct Events Centre. winetopia.co.nz

Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 July

The Food Show – Auckland

The country’s biggest consumer culinary showcase at the Auckland Showgrounds. hub.xpo.co.nz/events/food-show/

AUGUST

Tuesday 15 - Thursday 17 August

EuroVintage Roadshow

Meet the people behind the brands and estates that make up EuroVintage’s comprehensive global portfolio at three events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. All trade welcome between 1pm – 6pm. Events in Auckland at Tote on Ascot in Ellerslie on Tuesday 15 August, at Harbourside Function Centre in Wellington on Wednesday 16 August and Christchurch

Town Hall on Thursday 17 August. eurovintage.co.nz/news-and-events/

Friday 18 - Saturday 19 August

Beervana – Wellington

New Zealand’s biggest beer festival returns to Wellington’s Sky Stadium. beervana.co.nz

don’t transpor t goods, we transpor t dreams.

The dreams of the people who put their passion into everything they do. At Hillebrand Gori, we believe every thing we transport is precious, and therefore requires special care. That’s why we develop the most innovative and e icient solutions, tailor-made to our customers’ needs. In this way, we make our customers’ lives easier, while bringing the flavors of the world closer to people.

needs. In this way, we make our customers’ lives easier, while bringing the flavors of the world closer to people.

The dreams of the people who put their passion into everything they do. At Hillebrand Gori, we believe every thing we transport is precious, and therefore requires special care. That’s why we develop the most innovative and e icient solutions, tailor-made to our customers’ needs. In this way, we make our customers’ lives easier, while bringing the flavors of the world closer to people.

www.hillebrandgori.com

www.hillebrandgori.com

www.hillebrandgori.com

The dreams of the people who put their passion into everything they do. At Hillebrand Gori, we believe every thing we transport is precious, and therefore requires special care. That’s why we develop the most innovative and e icient solutions, tailor-made to our customers’

NOW IN RECYCLED GLASS

Making good choices

WHILE THE On Premise continues to hold its own during the cost-of-living crisis, consumers are increasingly targeting their spend towards brands and operators demonstrating sustainable and ethical practices and values, according to CGA by NIQ’s ‘New Zealand Consumer Pulse Report’.

The report, released in May, found that overall visitation remains stable, and while food-led occasions remain key drivers there is a marked increase in the number of consumers going out just for a drink, not only on a month-on-month basis, but also at the highest level over the past year. The data reveals a slight increase in frequency of visits compared

to March, driven by consumers wanting to treat themselves.

It found that On Premise consumers are considerate of the sustainable or ethical aspects of their visits to hospitality venues, with 42% considering sustainability or ethical credentials when deciding where to eat and drink.

These values-based preferences are most prevalent with regards to food, with almost half of consumers taking sustainability into account when making ordering decisions. In addition, 30% of consumers are also considering these aspects when ordering drinks. To this end, brand messaging that shouts out about sustainability credentials is well-placed to

Brand messaging that shouts out about sustainability credentials is well-placed to positively influence consumer decision-making in the On Premise.

Sustainable and ethical practices in hospo are a key consideration for New Zealand consumers, according to new research from CGA by NIQ…

positively influence consumer decisionmaking in the On Premise.

Yet, an emphatic 66% of consumers believe both food and drink suppliers, and also operators, need to do more to offset the negative impact of their businesses on the environment.

So, what would consumers ideally like to see, in order for the On Premise to align more deeply with their sustainable or ethical values? The CGA by NIQ research found that the top sustainability factor influencing 41% of consumer decisions during visits is locally sourced food and drink, highlighting the weight consumers place on locality.

There is significant consumer focus (26%) on reducing food waste, and on

sustainable packaging (22%). These combined factors strongly indicate a call for brands to seriously consider initiatives or processes that align with consumer expectations from a sustainability perspective.

Furthermore, almost two thirds of consumers check for information around sustainability during their On Premise visits, ranging from ‘always’, ‘most of the time’, ‘sometimes’ and ‘occasionally’, compared to 38% who never check.

The environmental and ethical elements consumers would appreciate hospitality venues and/ or drinks suppliers showing greater concern towards?

Reduced waste is at the top of the agenda (63%), followed by more recyclable or reusable materials (50%), a broader use of eco-friendly packaging (49%), and the eradication of single-use disposable packaging (48%).

The New Zealand Consumer Pulse Report from CGA by NIQ indicates much cause for consideration and proactivity on the part of suppliers and operators, as consumers seek to align with brands and venues that demonstrate commitment to balancing people, planet and profit.

James Phillips, Client Solutions Director, Australia and New Zealand said, “It is clear there is a strong discernment around sustainable and ethical values for On Premise consumers. It influences consumers actively choosing to spend their money with brands and venues that show alignment with purpose-driven offerings.

“For operators and suppliers there is a clear opportunity and more so a responsibility to act in this area with the resources they have. This has the potential for businesses to have a positive impact on the triple bottom line in people, the planet and even their own profits by making a change.”

Find out more about CGA by NIQ’s consumer research and market measurement services at cgastrategy.com or email james.phillips@nielseniq.com

Sustainability news from Kiwi brands….

• Dancing Sands now offers its gins in a new recycled glass bottle made in New Zealand.

• Sandymount Distillery has become the first NZ distillery to be certified carbon neutral.

• Rifters has started distributing a ‘demijohn’ 5L container system to bars instead of single bottles to eliminate unnecessary waste.

• The Bond Store in Kāpiti has called on local and central government to provide better support to small businesses innovating to reduce waste and emissions after offering its own bottle recycling scheme since 2019. The distillery collects, sanitises, refills and returns bottles to cafes, restaurants and bars.

Glass into gold….

DRINKS EXPERT Jason Clark (Drinks Geek Consultancy and Bedford Soda & Liquor) is taking to the world stage with his sustainability initiative called ‘Glass into Gold’. It would see glass disposed of by the more than 20 F&B outlets at Auckland’s Ponsonby Central crushed into fine sand and turned into drinking glasses by a local glass blower. These glasses would then be sold to bars and the public with a portion of profits going to community causes.

Jason Clark’s idea will compete against others from around the world at the global finale of Altos Tequila’s sustainability-focused competition ‘The Tahona Society Competition’ in Mexico from 29 June to 1 July. The competition is the first of its kind in the bartending industry and he will compete against initiatives developed by 11 other bartenders for the chance to win a USD$50,000 grant to bring ‘Glass into Gold’ to life.

The top sustainability factor influencing 41% of consumer decisions during visits to On Premise is locally sourced food and drink.

Jason Clark

Brewers Assoc updates U.S. craft landscape

THE BREWERS ASSOCIATION (BA) in the U.S. – the trade association representing small and independent1 American craft brewers – has released annual production figures for the U.S. craft brewing industry. In 2022, small and independent brewers collectively produced 24.3 million barrels of beer, on par with 2021’s numbers, and craft’s overall beer market share by volume grew to 13.2%, up from 13.1% the previous year.

The overall beer market shrank 3% by volume in 2022. Retail dollar value was estimated at USD$28.4 billion, representing a 24.6% market share and 6% growth over 2021. Sales growth was stronger than volume due to pricing, share shift to smaller brewers – who are more likely to sell onsite and via distributed draught – as well as the continued

channel shift back to on-premise, which has a higher average retail value. Craft brewers provided 189,413 direct jobs, a 9% increase from 2021, driven both by growth in the number of breweries and a continued shift to hospitality-focused business models.

“2022 presented small brewers with a number of challenges, including rising operating and material costs and increasing competition, particularly in distribution,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “In this maturing and competitive market, collective growth for the category is hard to come by.”

The number of operating craft breweries continued to climb in 2022, reaching an all-time high of 9,552, including 2,035 microbreweries, 3,418 brewpubs, 3,838 taproom breweries, and 261 regional craft breweries. The

Stoli Group backs non-alc spirit Pathfinder

LUXEMBOURG-BASED STOLI Group has invested in The Pathfinder Hemp and Root, its first move into non-alcoholic ‘spirits’.

Stoli Group, which owns its namesake vodka brand as well as Bayou Rum and Cenote Tequila among others, said the undisclosed investment in non-alcoholic hemp-based amaro The Pathfinder brings “diversification” to the company’s portfolio, according to global CEO Damian McKinney.

“The Pathfinder is a true trailblazer in the zero-proof category and as this massive shift in the culture of socialisation continues, The Pathfinder and Stoli Group combo creates limitless possibilities,” said McKinney.

Stoli said the alcohol-free brand had developed a loyal following among mindful drinkers, cocktail fans, bartenders and baristas.

“We have won over a lot of sceptics who didn’t believe that nonalcoholic options would find a place in the beverage world,” said Kraig Rovensky, global ambassador for The Pathfinder Hemp and Root.

“We’re blazing a trail for those who want to try something different – and the demand we’ve seen in the past few months proves that zeroproof ‘spirits’ are here to stay.”

The Pathfinder is made from fermented and distilled hemp, which deliver an ‘intense flavour and aromatic characteristics of a spirit’. The brand was inspired by the age of apothecaries and homemade remedies and its ingredients include douglas fir, sage, juniper, saffron, wormwood and angelica root. It can be served in coffee, neat, over ice or used as the base of a cocktail.

total U.S. operating brewery count was 9,709, up from 9,384 in 2021. Throughout the year, there were 549 new brewery openings and 319 closings. Openings decreased for a second consecutive year, with the continued decline reflecting a more mature market. The closing rate increased in 2022 but continued to remain relatively low, at approximately 3%.

“The relatively low closure rate reflects both the solid demand for fuller flavoured local beer as well as the versatility and flexibility of small brewers,” added Watson.

brewersassociation.org

1 An American craft brewer is a small and independent brewer. Small: Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less (approximately 3% of U.S. annual sales). Beer production is attributed to the rules of alternating proprietorships. Independent: Less than 25% of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by an alcoholic beverage industry member that is not itself a craft brewer.

New Master of Botanicals at Bacardi

BACARDI HAS a new Master of Botanicals for its world-famous Bombay Sapphire gin and Martini vermouth brands, with the promotion of Alessandro Garneri to the prestigious role.

Garneri takes the reins from Ivano Tonutti, who will retire this year after a career of more than 33 years at Bacardi.

An expert agronomist, Alessandro Garneri has been part of the Bacardi team for more than 17 years. He has headed up the company’s Global Botanicals Center in Geneva since 2017, taking a leading role in installing cutting-edge technology at the plant, as well as pushing boundaries on sustainable sourcing and the latest product innovations in the Bacardi portfolio of premium spirits.

In his new role, Garneri is responsible for overseeing the field-to-bottle journey of every botanical used to craft Martini and Bombay Sapphire, as well as for St-Germain ® elderflower liqueur, Noilly Prat ® vermouth and Bénédectine ® liqueur to ensure the consistent quality and flavour of each.

Summer Chic from Saverglass

A BOTTLE for all seasons, the Saverglass SUMMER CHIC is both lightweight and captivating with 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.

One of three shapes in the FREE SPIRIT collection, SUMMER CHIC will enhance any spirit – from the simplest to the most prestigious. Its ceremonious shape, the subtlety of its punt and the finesse of its carnette finish invite truly unique customisation.

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. Also known as “mocktails” or “virgin cocktails”, these new spirit-free concoctions are far from flavourless. Fruity, colourful and cheery, they quench a thirst for simple, authentic pleasures.

Inspired by this wave of alternative thinking, the FREE SPIRIT collection exudes a revitalising breath of fresh air. As part of this, SUMMER CHIC is delicate and full of zing, to re-enchant a sensory and celebratory universe.

First thought up for the “No and Low-alcohol” category, this minimalist collection will also delight spirit-lovers.

More elaborate than they might look, these new bottles with an inverted conical shape are sure to impress!

Find out more about the range from Saverglass 09 522 2990 saverglass.com

LET YOUR SPIRITS FLOW FREELY 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 its “carnette” finish give it a truly unique design.

Pervinder Kaur Associate at Corcoran French Lawyers specialising in alcohol licensing. pervinder@cflaw.co.nz cflaw.co.nz

The alcohol law FAQs

Alcohol licensing lawyer Pervinder Kaur answers the questions she hears most often around liquor and the law…

Q: I want to purchase a bottle store. What experience do I need to have?

A: To own and operate a licensed premises, like a bottle store, you don’t need any particular qualifications. However, your experience in the alcohol industry and understanding of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 are important factors that a licensing committee will consider when assessing your suitability to hold a liquor licence.

Q: If I have an on-licensed business can I apply only for the hours that I will open for trade? For example, Wednesday to Saturday with two hours for lunch and then six hours for dinner?

A: It’s possible to apply for specific hours to match your expected business demand. But keep in mind that there may be times when you want to operate for longer hours, such as during the summer season or around Christmas. If you opt for limited hours, you won’t be able to operate outside of those hours. Having longer licence hours can also be beneficial for the resale value of your business. It’s important to consider that not everyone would want to operate their bar or restaurant on restricted hours.

Q: How many duty managers do I need to apply for an alcohol licence?

A: For the purposes of the application you should have at least two duty managers. However, you should also be able to assure the district licensing committee that you will employ sufficient staff to manage the safe and responsible sale and supply of alcohol once the licence is granted.

Q: Some of the local residents have opposed my licence application. Can I talk to the objectors directly regarding their concerns?

A: You sure can. Sometimes, it is easier to resolve things through discussions. But, it is recommended to have an advisor during such discussions so you can properly consider the options proposed and decide whether to accept or reject them.

for up to three weeks at any one time and up to six weeks in any 12-month period. They do not require any qualification and/ or a certificate to be an acting manager.

It’s important to note that an acting or temporary manager is still considered to have the responsibilities of a duty manager and can be prosecuted for breaches of the Act.

Q: Can I appoint someone as an acting manager to cover for a lunch break?

A: Yes, you can appoint anyone as an acting manager to provide cover while the duty manager takes a lunch break. You will need to update the sign displaying the duty manager’s name with the name of the person covering the lunch break as an acting manager.

Q: What’s the difference between a ‘temporary’ manager and an ‘acting’ manager?

A: If a holder of a Manager’s Certificate isn’t available, the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 allows an uncertified person to be appointed as an acting or temporary manager.

A temporary manager can be appointed where a manager is dismissed or resigns. The person must apply for a Manager’s Certificate within two working days. The person then continues as a temporary manager until the application for a Manager’s Certificate is determined.

An acting manager can be appointed to cover for short-term absences where the manager is sick, or on holiday. The acting manager may only be appointed

Q: Do I need to notify district licensing committee and police of an acting manager appointment every time I appoint someone as an acting manager?

A: You don’t need to notify the appointment if it does not exceed 48 hours. The duty manager’s register, however, must be updated to show the appointment along with the reason for it.

Q: How often do I need to train my staff in alcohol sale and supply?

A: Staff should be trained at regular intervals – at least six-monthly to ensure they understand their responsibilities as sellers and suppliers of alcohol. Staff training attendance records should be maintained to show the agencies that you have trained your staff regularly, and to show the topics covered in any such training.

Staff should be trained at least six-monthly to ensure they understand their responsibilities as sellers and suppliers of alcohol.

New Red Bull winter release

AS AOTEAROA settles into winter, Red Bull has unveiled its new release: Red Bull The Jade Edition.

The limited-time offering has flavours of fig and apple with a hint of caramel and wintry spicy notes.

Red Bull Jade Edition is available in 250ml cans and 4-packs and delivers the same functional benefits as Red Bull. A 250ml can of Red Bull Energy Drink contains 80 mg of caffeine, about the same as in a home-brewed cup of coffee.

V Tropical Tang debuts

FRUCOR SUNTORY has added a new flavour to its most popular beverage, V Energy, with the release of V Tropical Tang.

The new addition to the range caters to the popularity of fresh tropical flavours with guava, pineapple and berries. It is the first V Energy full sugar product to be released since the success of V Raspberry Lemonade in 2020.

V Tropical Tang is available in New Zealand in a single 500ml can. The launch will be supported by a strategic OOH and social campaign to drive trial and awareness.

Frucor Suntory

The Apple Press releases new Smoothies

HAWKE’S BAY company The Apple Press, known for its premium varietals of apple juices, has launched a new range of smoothies.

The Apple Press Smoothies are available in Tropical, Feijoa, and Berry flavours (200ml RRP $5.99).

The Apple Press

Mylk Made adds new Wal-nutty

CANTERBURY ALTERNATIVE milk company Mylk Made has launched Wal-nutty Mylk Base, adding to its range of sustainable nut and seed-based milk products.

The new base blends New Zealand-grown walnuts with blanched almonds and macadamias for a smooth and creamy mylk base. One tablespoon of mylk base blends with 250ml of water for instant, fresh plantbased milk.

The new Wal-nutty Mylk Base has options for trade with a 1L jar (makes 16.5L), or 5L bucket, as well as its smaller 150ml jar (makes 2.5L) and 300ml jar (makes 5L).

Mother-daughter duo Corinne and Jemma Turner launched their company in 2020 and package their products in glass jars to avoid using liquid-paperboard, which is difficult to recycle in New Zealand. Mylk Made also offer a range of Barista Base alternative milks.

Mylk Made

Red Bull NZ

Corinne and Jemma Turner

RED ALERT

Joelle Thomson lines up some of the best examples of ever-popular Pinot Noir at a range of price points…

RRP $20 - $29.99

2020 The Crater Rim From the Ashes

Pinot Noir

RRP $21.99

The Crater Rim

Strong winds, long, dry summers and lingering autumns all favour Pinot Noir from North Canterbury. This light-bodied, earthy expression has aromas and flavours of ripe black cherry and is fantastic value. 16.5/20

2021 Matahiwi Estate Pinot Noir

RRP $22.99

Grey Beard Trading

Matahiwi is the northernmost winery in the Wairarapa and planted mostly with Pinot Noir. This expression is very good value for money, offering complex aromas of smoked dark cherries and earth that lead into a mediumbodied wine with fresh fruit flavours and a savoury finish. 16.5/20

2020 Te Hera Estate Pinot Noir

RRP $24.99

Sanz Global

Could this be the best value Pinot Noir produced in Martinborough every year? Winemaker John Douglas has an unwavering focus on delivering an organically produced wine with depth of flavour, and at a low price. His vineyard is on Te Muna Road, west of Martinborough, where the windy days, hot summers and chilly nights all enhance the long growing season, giving a ‘je ne sais quoi’ to Pinot Noir made here. 17.5/20

2020 Trinity Hill Marlborough

Pinot Noir

RRP $24.99

Lion

Juicy red summer berries and an appealing softness add to the savoury aromas that make this wine enjoyable on its own, but even better when matched with lightly baked salmon, duck, or even roast chicken with root vegetables. Earthy aromas add complexity to the lingering finish. Drinks well now and can age for another three to four years. 17/20

2020 Main Divide Pinot Noir

RRP $26.99

EuroVintage

A firmly structured young Pinot Noir from North Canterbury with a medium body and savoury flavours. Will reward time decanting or a couple more years of ageing. 17/20

2020 Gold Digger Pinot Noir

RRP $26.99

Māori Point Wines

Māori Point Wines is owned by two families who grow the grapes in Central Otago and employ experienced local winemakers to produce their wines from vineyard sites with low yields, using wild yeast fermentations. This wine offers sensational flavours at an affordable price with light red fruit, structured bright acidity and earthy tones. 17.5/20

2020 Martinborough Vineyards Te Tera Pinot Noir

RRP $28.99

Lion

A superb Martinborough Pinot Noir with softness and structure thanks to great winemaking by Paul Mason from Martinborough Vineyards. This is the winery’s second-tier Pinot Noir but is a single vineyard wine, so receives all the same hands-on attention usually reserved for higher-priced Pinots. Great value for money and ages well for two to three years. 17.5/20

RRP $30 - $39.99

2020 Forrest Marlborough Pinot Noir

RRP $33.99

Forrest

Forrest’s latest Pinot Noir is smooth and soft with structured red fruit flavours, a light touch of earthy, fresh leaves and a hint of spice on the finish. This is a wine to drink now or over the next year and has the lightness of touch to enjoy when lightly chilled. 17.5/20

Te Tera is a superb Martinborough Pinot Noir with softness and structure thanks to great winemaking by Paul Mason

2022 Taka K Waipara Pinot Noir

RRP $33.99

Dhall & Nash

Takahiro Koyama is one of North Canterbury’s winemaking stars and his new brand, Taka K, launched this year with two excellent Pinot Noirs: this wine and another called Pearson, which comes from a small vineyard site. This lively and lovely Pinot Noir has a medium body, intense aromas of smoked mushrooms, wild earth and a plummy softness, adding appeal to every lingering sip. 17.5/20

2018 Porters Kereru Pinot Noir

RRP $34.99

Red+White Cellar

This Martinborough Pinot Noir is starting to hit its stride – savoury aromas lead into delicate red fruit flavours supported by fresh acidity, which adds structure and a long finish. Superb drinking right now and will hold for another couple of years. 17.5/20

2021 Te Kairanga Runholder Pinot Noir

RRP $35.99

Lion

A wine of great structure and power from one of the oldest wineries in Martinborough, with winemaking now by John Kavanagh. There are accentuated spice and savoury cedar notes in this wine, which also has great fruit concentration and a long finish. Tasty now but will come into its own over the next four to six years and could potentially age longer. 18.5/20

2020 Nga Waka Pinot Noir

RRP $38.99

Hancocks

“Best ever” is a big call, but that’s how winemaker Roger Parkinson describes this Pinot Noir, in terms of his 30-year-plus winemaking career. The 2020 vintage in Martinborough was exceptional and has translated beautifully into this stellar Pinot, which seems to evolve from “delicious” to “even better” every few months. It drinks beautifully now and will age for up to a decade, potentially beyond. 19/20

2020 Big Sky Pinot Noir

RRP $39.99

Big Sky Wines

Jeremy Corban and Katherine Jacobs make a range of great Pinot Noirs from their fully certified organic vineyard on Te Muna Road, just east of Martinborough. This is an excellent wine with power and elegance, a silky mouthfeel, layers of dark fruit flavour, notes of earthy tannins and great structure. It is from an excellent year and holds its structure and drinkability for at least three days when open, which suggests it has a long life ahead in terms of ageing. 18.5/20

2020 McArthur Ridge Southern Tor

Pinot Noir

RRP $39.99

Brandhouse

The McArthur Ridge brand owns the largest vineyard area in Alexandra, Central Otago, and makes attractive floral Pinot Noirs, such as this one. Flavours are elegant and delicate with notes of red cherries, a hint of red plums and savoury spice. 17.5/20

RRP $40 - $49.99

2021 Akarua Pinot Noir

RRP $42

Hancocks

Akarua winery in Bannockburn is now owned by the Edmond de Rothschild Heritage group, which plans to continue producing mostly Pinot Noir, including this appealingly plump, red-fruited example. Ripe cherry aromas lead into a beautifully structured full-bodied wine with a refreshing, silky texture and long finish. 18.5/20

2020 Craggy Range Te Muna

Pinot Noir

RRP $42.99

Vintners

Snap this wine up because Pinot Noirs from Martinborough in 2020 tend to be outstanding. Craggy Range has the largest land-holding of any winery in Martinborough and all of its vineyards are on Te Muna Road, where Pinot thrives. A wine of great structure with earthy, dark fruit notes. Drinks beautifully now and will age well for up to, and potentially beyond, five years. 18.5/20

“Best ever” is a big call, but that’s how winemaker Roger Parkinson describes his 2020 Nga Waka Pinot Noir.

2020 Urlar Pinot Noir

RRP $43.99

Negociants

An elegant wine with red berry fruit aromas, dried herb and savoury flavours. Concentrated tannins add weight and depth as well as structure to this impressive wine. 18.5/20

2019 Nautilus Southern Valleys

Pinot Noir

RRP $44.99

Negociants

The Southern Valleys are the next big thing for Marlborough Pinot Noir. Elevated hillside vineyards benefit from the hotter days and cooler nights, accentuating structure in the grapes, which make wines such as this fullbodied, dark-fruited style. Excellent now and can age for up to five years, possibly longer.

17.5/20

2020 Huntress Pinot Noir

RRP $45.99

Huntress Wines

A new classic. I would rate this the best Pinot Noir yet from Wairarapa winemaker Jannine Rickards. Rickards uses a high proportion of whole bunch fermentation in warm, dry vintages, such as 2020, which adds great structure to her Pinot Noir. Drinks beautifully now, but move fast as volumes were small.

18.5/20

2019 Dog Point Pinot Noir

RRP $48.99

Red+White Cellar

Marlborough Pinot Noir is one of the great underrated wines in this country and this expression has an impressively smooth mouthfeel, great structure and complex flavours right now. It will also age well for seven to eight years. 18/20

2020 Escarpment Pinot Noir

RRP $49.99

Vintners

One of the best Pinot Noirs from Martinborough’s spectacular 2020 vintage. This wine is complex and full now and will continue to age well for the next decade. 18.5/20

RRP $50 and above

2018 Johner Reserve Pinot Noir

RRP $52.99

Johner Estate

A complex, spicy and smooth Pinot Noir from Johner Estate winery in Wairarapa, near Gladstone. It has savoury plum aromas, a smooth palate and drinks beautifully now. Will age well for up to five years. 17.5/20

2017 Domaine Rewa Pinot Noir

RRP $54.99

Dhall & Nash

A beautiful full-bodied and organically certified Pinot Noir from a relatively small estate in Central Otago. Structured acidity adds depth to the bright red and dark fruit characters and adds a lingering finish. A wine for now or to cellar for a further three to four years. 17.5/20

2020 Pegasus Bay Waipara Pinot Noir

RRP $54.99

EuroVintage

An impressive and highly structured Pinot Noir with dark, full-bodied flavours and a powerfully long finish. This wine is made from Pegasus Bay’s old vines in North Canterbury’s Waipara Valley and is given classic Burgundian winemaking treatment, including wild yeast fermentation and time in French oak. This maturation process adds body but also softens the structure. It drinks well now but ideally needs time to mellow and come into its own. This wine is a keeper. 18.5/20

The 2020 Pegasus Bay Waipara Pinot Noir is made from old vines in North Canterbury’s Waipara Valley and given classic Burgundian winemaking treatment.

2021 Quartz Reef Bendigo Pinot Noir

RRP $54.99

Vintners

Quartz Reef was founded by winemaker Rudi Bauer who owns 30 hectares of land in Bendigo, including a 15-hectare, north-facing slope planted mainly in Pinot Noir. It’s home to the grapes in this youthful, savoury-edged wine, which has a lot of time up its sleeve. A lovely, complex Pinot now, it will age well for at least another five to six years. 19/20

2021 Maude Kids Block Wanaka

Pinot Noir

RRP $55

EuroVintage

This one-hectare vineyard site was dedicated to the grandchildren (the “kids”) of Maude Wines founders, Dawn and Terry Wilson. It’s at 400 metres above sea level with no irrigation and planted with three different clones of Pinot Noir: 667, 777 and 115. The result is a rewardingly flavoursome, full-bodied and powerful Pinot with a touch of spice. 18.5/20

2019 Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin

Pinot Noir

RRP $55.99

Giesen

The great Clayvin Vineyard is home to one of Marlborough’s top tier Pinot Noirs. Organically certified, this wine’s savoury aromas unfold into a dry, plush, full-bodied wine full of plum and red cherry flavours and with great ageing potential. 19/20

2021 Two Paddocks Central Otago

Pinot Noir

RRP $56.99

Negociants

This wine from actor Sam Neill’s Two Paddocks vineyard is a taut youthful expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir. Savoury aromas mingle with red cherry notes, and firm structured tannins suggest this wine can age for at least four to five years. Decant before serving, otherwise cellar for a couple of years and watch it evolve.

18.5/20

2020 Palliser Estate Pinot Noir

RRP $60

Negociants

If full-bodied Pinot Noirs appeal, here is the wine. It’s a powerful but silky, multi-layered expression of Martinborough Pinot Noir made with grapes grown on Hua Nui, Pencarrow Vineyard, Palliser Vineyard and the home block at the winery. A big wine that works well with game and complex savoury vegetarian dishes.

18.5/20

2019 Martinborough Vineyard Home Block Pinot Noir

RRP $66.99

Lion

A full-bodied Pinot Noir with spicy, earthy aromas and dark fruit flavours unfolding in every complex sip. This wine puts Martinborough’s most impressive foot forward for its flagship grape and wine. 18.5/20

2020 Neudorf Home Block Moutere

Pinot Noir

RRP $70

EuroVintage

An organically certified Pinot Noir full of dark fruit flavours from Neudorf Vineyard’s Moutere site in Nelson. A savoury edge of mocha, cedar, and fresh forest leaves all add complexity and depth to this lively, youthful wine, which can age for a further four years plus.

18/20

2019 Mount Edward Morrison Vineyard Pinot Noir

RRP $76.99

Mineral

This is one of the great Central Otago Pinot Noirs, with its weight and structure coming from a modest portion of new oak (intentionally low with 15%) and carefully managed 50% whole bunch fermentation, which adds velvety depths to this silky southern Pinot. 19/20

2019 Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin

Pinot Noir is one of Marlborough’s top tier Pinot Noirs.

2020 Dicey Black Rabbit Pinot Noir

RRP $76.99

Red+White Cellar

A new classic from winemaker Matt Dicey’s Black Rabbit Vineyard in Bannockburn. This is a dark and savoury wine that tastes impressive now, but clearly begs for time in the bottle to unfold into the wine it can become: multilayered, complex and silky. 18.5/20

2021 Valli Waitaki Pinot Noir

RRP $79 to $80

Great Little Vineyards

A beautiful red-fruited Pinot Noir from one of the smallest wine regions in the country, the Waitaki Valley in North Otago. This delicate Pinot Noir has a pale colour with powerful, complex depths of red fruit flavour, a spicy note and a long, commandingly flavoursome finish. 18.5/20

2021 Felton Road Calvert Pinot Noir

RRP $85.99

Felton Road

Calvert Vineyard is one of the classic sites on Felton Road in Central Otago and grapes from here have been turned into fascinating wines by many people, among them winemaker Blair Walter, who has the longest history with this site. Here, he has created a refined, silky, incredibly complex, multi-layered wine from the 2021 vintage. It is the best Calvert Pinot Noir made yet, in my view. It drinks beautifully now but will age superbly too. 19/20

2019 Ata Rangi Martinborough

Pinot Noir

RRP $87.99

EuroVintage

Structure and elegance define this powerful Martinborough Pinot Noir from one of the first four wineries in the region. Winemaker Helen Masters has been at the helm with founder Clive Paton since Ata Rangi’s early days. This wine is taut, muscular and impressive now with great structure and ageability up its sleeve.

18.5/20

2020 Big Sky ‘Celestia’ Pinot Noir

RRP $108.99

Big Sky Wines

Talk about impressive. ‘Celestia’ is evocative in name and taste with 100% whole bunch fermentation adding great structure and a silky texture to this wine, which comes from the organically certified Big Sky Vineyard on Te Muna Road in Martinborough. This is the first vintage of ‘Celestia’ and winemakers Jeremy Corban and Katherine Jacobs aimed to enhance the wine without significant winemaking input. The result is a super impressive drop with a long life ahead. 18.5/20

2020 Dry River Pinot Noir

RRP $110.99

Negociants

Wilco Lam and Sam Rouse have honoured the history of this impressively structured, savoury, dark and age-worthy Pinot Noir. It drinks well now (decant first) and will cellar for at least a decade, softening into an earthy, increasingly complex wine over time.

18.5/20

2020 Escarpment Kupe Pinot Noir

RRP $117.99

Vintners

Great wines take time and need it. Escarpment winemaker Tim Bourne takes this to heart when making Kupe, the flagship Pinot Noir from the Escarpment Vineyard in Te Muna Valley, Martinborough. This wine is full-bodied, savoury and earthy now, and will evolve into a multi-layered and complex wine with time. The 2020 vintage is potentially the best yet made, thanks to great ripening conditions. Fantastic now, or cellar for another five to 10 years. Ideally the latter. 19/20

The 2020 Dicey Black Rabbit Pinot Noir is a new classic from winemaker Matt Dicey’s Black Rabbit Vineyard in Bannockburn.

Top Picks

Joelle Thomson picks some great new wines for every occasion as winter sets in…

2020 Clos Henri ‘Waimaunga’

Pinot Noir

RRP $48

Maison Vauron

Clos Henri is the New Zealand winery set up by the Bourgeois family, who have made wine in France’s Loire Valley for eight generations. Today, they produce wine in both countries, and with eagle-eyed detail. All their local wines are made in Marlborough from certified organic grapes grown entirely on their own estate vineyards and with a strong focus on soil data, as the styles of wine differ widely according to the soil types in which the grapes are grown. The reference to ‘windblown clays’ on this wine’s label means it was made with grapes grown in Marlborough’s Southern Valley’s clay soils where warm days and cooler than usual nights preserve acidity. The grapes were fermented in large wooden tanks and aged in barrel for a year, but wood is not the aim of the game here. Winemakers Damian and Lara are all about adding texture, depth and a silky mouthfeel to their wines. This is an outstanding new release with fresh new branding. 18.5/20

Gold Digger Frizzante

440ml can RRP $12.99

Māori Point

This wine in a can debunks all my previous preconceptions about this format because it has a beautiful balance of acidity and a light touch of sweet, fruity appeal with five grams residual sugar marrying nicely with the light ‘frizzante’ sparkling style. The ‘f’ word here is the Italian way of saying that a wine is bubbly, but only just. This wine breaks new ground, even if it is in a rather large can – enough for two people on a picnic somewhere gorgeous in the great outdoors. 17.5/20

2021 Konrad Dry Riesling

RRP $18.99

Giesen

Dry Riesling is on trend internationally now and it’s no surprise that Giesen makes more than one of this country’s best quality examples. Not to mention it is outstanding value for money. Expect lime zest, lemon juice freshness and layers of green apples and ripe peach in this dry wine with its long, flavoursome finish. 17.5/20

2022 The Boneline Sauvignon Blanc

RRP $27.99

The Boneline

Talk about an instantly loveable wine with fleshy, mouth-filling tropical flavours of ripe mango and passionfruit, underpinned by a balanced bold acidity, medium body and a lingering vibrant fruit flavour. Sauvignon Blanc may be best known from Marlborough, but it thrives spectacularly in the cool climate of North Canterbury, which is home to The Boneline. 18.5/20

2018 Q Pinot Noir Waitaki Valley

RRP $46.99

Q Wine

Q Wine is one of a handful of producers who persevere with winemaking in one of the trickiest parts of the country for grapes: the Waitaki Valley in north Otago. And their efforts are worth it in my view, having tasted all of their wines over the past decade and seeing a gorgeous, silky elegance in all four: this Pinot Noir, a dry Pinot Gris, a smooth Chablis-like Chardonnay and a light, dry Rosé. This is my favourite, with its very light touch of smoky appeal in aroma, gorgeous cherry notes, the impressive structure from bold acidity, and nine months in French oak, which adds interesting layers of flavour to this cool climate Pinot Noir. 18.5/20

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 74.

Gold Digger Frizzante debunks all my previous preconceptions about the wine in a can format.

Letter from Martinborough

A small town with big successes, Joelle Thomson explains why Martinborough is such a special spot for Pinot Noir devotees …

MARTINBOROUGH IS a small town that has made a big impact in the wine world. Pinot Noir is its flagship and makes up about 40% of the 1,090 hectares of producing vineyard land in the Wairarapa wine region in which Martinborough sits.

The vast majority of this planting is in and around Martinborough, including Te Muna Valley, which is situated nine kilometres east in a windswept, majestically beautiful area and itself home to a hefty 330 hectares of the region’s total.

The first modern wines in Martinborough were made in 1984 by the earliest wineries, which were Ata Rangi, Chifney Wines, Dry River Wines and Martinborough Vineyards. Much has changed since then, with an evergrowing number of new wineries, cellar doors, tasting rooms and restaurants, but Martinborough’s small size and somewhat “under the radar” profile remain.

Interestingly, even the physical size of Pinot Noir grapes grown in Martinborough fall on the smaller side. Strong winds in the region tend to ensure that crops of grapes remain small but high in quality, as they have to develop thick skins to withstand the battering they receive from Mother Nature each year. This means that “bunch architecture” (the shape and size of grape bunches) in Martinborough vineyards can be smaller than that of Pinot Noir grapes grown in less extreme weather conditions, says winemaker Helen Masters of Ata Rangi.

Pinot Pioneers

Technical wine information aside, Martinborough itself is a remote rural village and it’s not exactly on the beaten

The first modern wines in Martinborough were made in 1984 by the earliest wineries, which were Ata Rangi, Chifney Wines, Dry River Wines and Martinborough Vineyards.

track. Nor is it home to easily marketable majestic snow-capped mountains, ski fields or precarious bungy jumps over eyewateringly blue rivers.

It has lacked a powerful bunch of personalities to constantly push its wines out to an appreciative audience, but it is certainly not short of its own charms. Visitor numbers in Martinborough grew more swiftly than in any other region post-lockdown in 2020, and don’t seem to have abated since. Cycling culture has

taken off in a big way and it is the only wine region in New Zealand where visitors can walk between most of its wineries, which are situated conveniently in a circuit around the town’s famous Union Square (named after the Union Jack, with streets coming off it in the same fashion as the famous flag).

Committee members from Wairarapa Wine Region (the official marketing body for the wider Wairarapa wine region) are keen to build on this and see Martinborough gain an even higher profile for its wines, given Martinborough Pinot Noir remains one of the great successes of the New Zealand wine industry.

To this end, the first “Pinot Pioneers” dinner will be held in Martinborough in July, to celebrate the role that the first four Martinborough winemakers played in the 1980s. Three of them will be attending the event on Thursday 27 July at local restaurant Union Square. Tickets are scarce but may be available by email from: marketing@wairarapawine.co.nz

Joelle Thomson Journalist, wine writer and author joellethomson.com

View from Escarpment

0% CHANCE OF MISSING OUT THIS JULY.

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Trophy Winner

Holly South Series

Pinot Noir 2021

Chardonnay Symposium announced for Hawke’s Bay

THE INAUGURAL Aotearoa New Zealand Chardonnay Symposium is to be held in Te Matau-a-Māui Hawke’s Bay on 5-6 October 2023.

The event is being organised by Hawke’s Bay Winegrowers in collaboration with New Zealand Winegrowers and the New Zealand Society of Oenology and Viticulture.

The group says that Chardonnay is one of New Zealand’s most important varietals and with its spiritual home being Hawke’s Bay it is only fitting that the region hosts the event.

It says the two-day symposium will provide a forum for the wine community to assess: “where we are at and where we would like to go in the journey to making exceptional Chardonnay”.

The symposium will bring together a national audience from the wine community to hear and share knowledge on the domestic and global trends in Chardonnay.

It will be held at Toitoi: Hawke’s Bay Arts and Event Centre in Hastings where delegates will have the opportunity to hear from local and international Chardonnay experts.

The NZSVO will deliver a technical workshop on Chardonnay on Day One, with an internationally-focused perspective on Day Two.

HBWG will also host the “Great New Zealand Chardonnay Celebration” in the newly refurbished laneways precinct of Toitoi on the evening of 5 October.

Register for updates at hawkesbaywine.co.nz/symposium

Tiraki first NZ wine brand to achieve B Corp

Buy today

Matahiwi.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH-BASED TIRAKI Wines has become the first wine brand in New Zealand to receive B Corp certification – the most rigorous and comprehensive global standard for social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Tiraki scored 102.5 overall following the year-long evaluation, where the median score for companies who complete the assessment is 50.9.

Made and bottled in Marlborough, Tiraki has achieved its certification through a commitment to community, with a promise to purchase core products (at least 50% of non-labour expenses) from independent

Marlborough suppliers, as well as a mission to purvey the land.

The Hammond family have been custodians of Longfield Farm in Marlborough for over 150 years, supplying some of New Zealand’s most recognised and award-winning wine labels. In 2020, the next generation of Hammonds created Tiraki as their own family-run label.

“We are incredibly proud to be the first wine label in New Zealand to receive B Corp certification,” said Director Tyler Hammond. “As a label established during lockdown, we were inspired by what enterprises were doing on the world stage to consider their impact on the planet and have been committed to following suit as we bring high quality, sustainably minded and community-led products to market.”

Tiraki’s range currently consists of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and a newly released Chardonnay.

tiraki.nz

Wairarapa

‘Deeply coloured, this is a lovely fleshy black fruited Pinot with bold cherry, blackberry fruit, but counted with nice brightness and apporpriate structure.’

Triumph for 2019 Mission Estate Huchet Syrah

HAWKE’S BAY’S Mission Estate Winery, considered the birthplace of New Zealand wine, is toasting the extraordinary success of its 2019 Huchet Syrah. This exceptional wine has been awarded two Gold Medals in the prestigious International Wine Challenge and International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWC & IWSC), reaffirming Mission Estate’s commitment to crafting world-class wines that exceed expectation.

In addition, the 2019 Huchet Syrah became one of two New Zealand wines to secure a Masters Medal in the esteemed Global Wine Masters 2022 competition late last year.

Renowned for their rigorous judging process and high standards, IWC and IWSC attract the best wines from around the world. In this fiercely competitive environment, the 2019 Huchet Syrah demonstrated its outstanding quality and

craftsmanship, receiving a coveted Gold Medal.

“The accolades received by our 2019 Huchet Syrah at the Global Wine Masters 2022 and in the International Wine Challenge, and International Wine & Spirits Competition are a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality winemaking,” said Mission Estate Winemaker, Paul Mooney.

“We are immensely proud of this achievement, which showcases the dedication and expertise of our winemaking team. These awards reinforce Mission Estate Winery’s position as a leader in

New Zealand’s wine industry, producing fine wine since 1851.”

The 2019 Huchet Syrah boasts a distinctive character, exhibiting a deep garnet hue with aromas of blackberries, violets, and cracked black pepper. On the palate, it showcases a harmonious blend of ripe dark fruit, integrated oak, and finely structured tannins.

This Syrah exemplifies the unique terroir of the Hawke’s Bay region, where Mission Estate Winery has been producing exceptional wines for over 170 years.

2019 Mission Estate Huchet Syrah is RRP $150.

Distributed by Mission Estate. Phone 06 845 9350.

I’ve

“These awards reinforce Mission Estate Winery’s position as a leader in New Zealand’s wine industry, producing fine wine since 1851”

– Paul Mooney, Mission Estate Winemaker

New faces at Awatere River Winery

BOOSTER WINE Group has announced the appointment of Helen Morrison as Chief Marlborough Winemaker and Pierre Vienings as Marlborough Winemaker joining the winemaking team at Awatere River Winery.

Morrison joins the team after nine successful years as Senior Winemaker at Villa Maria, and Pierre Vienings joins after five years of boutique winemaking at the Coterie winery in Marlborough.

Helen Morrison has worked in the wine industry for over 20 years, creating awardwinning wines that achieved global recognition during her time at Villa Maria. As Chief Marlborough Winemaker at Awatere River, she will lead the winemaking team as well as working with Booster Wine Group’s other regional winemaking teams and conducting domestic and international trade visits.

Pierre Vienings has worked in Marlborough’s wine industry since 2010 and brings extensive experience in small-batch, high-end winemaking to the Awatere River team.

Villa Maria launches major brand campaign in the UK

VILLA MARIA has launched its biggest ever brand campaign in the United Kingdom, focusing on its Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

The campaign, ‘Live in the Delicious’ launched in late May, just ahead of the summer season in the UK, where Villa Maria continues to be the #1 New Zealand wine brand by value*.

Villa Maria says that the integrated campaign will span OOH, social media and digital, as well as in-store promotion and a comprehensive PR campaign.

Global Marketing and Communications Director Sarah Szegota says that ‘Live in the Delicious’ is a bold evolution for Villa Maria. “The insight from our research found ‘me’ time has become a luxury in the lives of our target consumer group. To Live in the Delicious is to savour those ‘delicious’ moments in life, and that includes a moment with our award-winning wines. We’re thrilled with this campaign and anticipate strong results.”

The campaign will launch in other key markets later this year including the US, followed by Australia and New Zealand.

*Nielsen MAT to 25.03.2023

Accolades for NZ at IWC

THE INTERNATIONAL Wine Challenge (IWC) has announced the results of its 2023 competition. In its 40 th year, the IWC is widely regarded as the world’s most influential, impartial and rigorously judged global wine competition. Thousands of wines from over 50 countries were entered into the competition and blind tasted by an international panel of experts, with awards going to over 6,000 wines from across the world.

New Zealand ranked fifth on the overall medals table with 38 Golds – France led the table with 70. A major title went to Giesen, which was awarded the International Syrah Trophy for its Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah 2021.

New Zealand IWC Trophy wins:

Church Road 1 Chardonnay 2021Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay Trophy

Church Road 1 Malbec 2020Hawke’s Bay Malbec Trophy

Coal Pit Tiwha Pinot Noir 2019Gibbston Pinot Noir Trophy, Otago Pinot Noir Trophy, New Zealand Pinot Noir Trophy Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah 2021 - New Zealand Syrah Trophy, New Zealand Red Trophy, International Syrah Trophy

Greystone Chardonnay 2021Canterbury Chardonnay Trophy, New Zealand Chardonnay Trophy, New Zealand White Trophy

Lawson’s Dry Hills Reserve Chardonnay

2021 - Marlborough Chardonnay Trophy

Matahiwi Holly South Series Pinot Noir

2021 - Wairarapa Pinot Noir Trophy

McArthur Ridge Southern Tor Pinot Noir

2021 - Alexandra Pinot Noir Trophy

Passage Rock Reserve Viognier 2022

- New Zealand Viognier Trophy

Passage Rock Magnus 2019New Zealand Red Blend Trophy

Yealands Estate Single Block S1

Sauvignon Blanc 2022New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Trophy

The IWC Champion Wines for 2023 are selected from a re-tasting by the IWC Co-Chairs of all the trophy-winning wines and were due to be revealed at the IWC 2023 Awards announcement on 4 July.

internationawinechallenge.com

Helen Morrison

Pierre Vienings

Jacob’s Creek new Double Barrel Shiraz Cabernet Rum

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN winery Jacob’s Creek has added a new expression to its Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel collection, with Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Shiraz Cabernet Rum 2021.

The wine is first matured in traditional French and American oak wine barrels. Once blended, portions of the wine are matured in oak casks that previously aged Caribbean rum. It is described as having lifted aromatics, dark fruits and a slight leafiness, while the palate is lush with notes of cocoa and vanilla from the traditional oak. The rum barrel also imparts rum and raisin flavours with a hint of Christmas cake.

Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Shiraz Cabernet Rum 2021 RRP $25.

Pernod Ricard

New ‘M by Montana’

MONTANA HAS launched a new pinnacle range of wines, M by Montana, to pay homage to the brand’s winemaking tradition and during the 50th anniversary year of the first vine plantings in its home of Marlborough.

The range from Chief Winemaker Jamie Marfell comprises a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris, alongside a Gisborne Chardonnay and Waipara Pinot Noir.

M by Montana is RRP $19.99.

Pernod Ricard

Somm opens in Auckland

AUCKLAND’S FIRST urban cellar door and wine bar on the waterfront has opened its doors, with the arrival of Somm on Princes Wharf in the CBD.

Somm is part of the Foley Hospitality stable (formerly Nourish Group) and represents wineries including Church Road, Martinborough Vineyard, Te Kairanga, Vavasour and Mt Difficulty, offering an insight into their respective regions with a wine flight menu making it easy to match and compare between regions, varietals and wineries with the help of tasting notes.

The drinks list features an extensive catalogue of library wines by the bottle and large

format wines, with guest wineries from other regions such as Waiheke Island and North Canterbury. There are also local beers on tap, and a selection of cocktails and champagne.

The accompanying food menu has been created by Foley Hospitality’s Executive Chef Gavin Doyle.

The fit out was designed by Nott Architects and the interior is punctuated with materials traditionally found in New Zealand’s prestigious winery regions including timber in walnut and oak, and earthy stone and clay tiles. sommwinebar.co.nz

COLD CO MFORT

Turn the flavour dial all the way up with these new winter releases…

Asahi Super Dry 0.0%

0.0% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $13.99

Asahi Group NZ

The newly arrived Asahi Super Dry 0.0% is the non-alcoholic version of Japan’s hugely popular Asahi Super Dry. Crisp and refreshing, this is set to be a major player in the zero alcohol category.

Emerson’s Little Bird

<0.5% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $19.99

Lion

Emerson’s has added its voice to the growing zero alcohol landscape with this brand new offering. Little Bird is based on the bold flavours of the brewery’s hugely popular Bird Dog beer, but at <0.5% ABV. A great first addition to a fast-growing category.

McLeod’s 10 Pound Pom ESB

3.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99

McLeod’s Brewery

The team at Waipu brewery McLeod’s have crafted this classically-inspired English Special Bitter with all things English: yeast, malt and hops. Earl Grey and toffee aromas meld with a rich, malty body over pronounced but smooth bitterness. Just what an expat, ESB-loving Brit craves – a taste of the ol’ country while in a land far, far away.

Pacific Coast Backwater

4% ABV, keg only

Pacific Coast

This is a rich and sessionable dark ale from new Northland brewery Pacific Coast that’s perfect as the colder weather sets in. It has a complex malt base loaded with Vienna and chocolate malts and is infused with fresh coffee beans. Notes of rich cacao, toffee and coffee lead to a silky smooth finish.

Pacific Coast Cross-Step Lager

4% ABV, 440ml RRP $7.50 328ml 6-pack RRP $24.99

– also in keg

Pacific Coast

A fantastic lager from Pacific Coast in Mangawhai. Sessionable 4% lagers can sometimes slide into the insipid, but the brewers here have used Southern Cross hops and an “unorthodox” Norwegian kveik yeast to great effect. Cross-Step has a fragrant, malty nose and a lively hopping that sets it apart, while still remaining crisp, dry and refreshing. Recommended.

Pacific Coast Heatwave DDH Pale Ale

4% ABV, 440ml RRP $9 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

Arriving in a big blue can with a motorboat on it, Pacific Coast’s Heatwave is a big, bold pale ale with a piney nose. DDH stands for ‘double dry-hopped’ and the Riwaka, Moutere and Motueka hops combine for a juicy, tropical pale ale with notes of mango and citrus. All the flavour but still eminently sessionable at just 4%.

Good George Cow Town Hazelnut

Chocolate Milk Stout

5% ABV, 946ml RRP $15 – also in keg

Good George

A cheeky nod to Waikato’s dairying fame in the name of this delicious new release from Hamilton brewers Good George. The fabulous packaging contains a soft, easy-going stout that has been brewed with hazelnuts and cocoa nibs to create a luscious drop full of nutty, chocolatey character.

Pacific Coast Electric Pineapple

5.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

Pacific Coast’s entry into the sour category is Electric Pineapple: a fruity sour ale in a vibrant yellow can and with “a big Hawaiian heart”. Plenty of lush pineapple flavour from the pineapple puré e and juice in the brew shines through, with a hefty lime sourness underpinning it all. A bright and punchy sour that Pacific Coast calls “more Hawaiian than your uncle’s favourite flowery shirt”.

Pacific Coast Backwater is a rich and sessionable dark ale from new Northland brewery Pacific Coast that’s perfect as the colder weather sets in.

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

McLeod’s Fireside Unfiltered Pale Ale

5.6% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

McLeod’s Brewery

Packed with American Zythos and New Zealand Kohatu hops, this beer is designed to warm the cockles in the chill of winter. Pine and citrus-driven aromatics cosy up to a soft malty cushion with enough bitterness to keep you thirsty for more.

McLeod’s Tartan IPA

5.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

McLeod’s Brewery

US Mosaic and New Zealand Nectaron hops cosy up nicely in this seasonal favourite from McLeod’s. They throw some seriously fruity, grassy overtones into the brew, alongside ripe tropical fruits and hints of spice. New Zealand malts plus naked golden oats add some nuttiness.

Pacific Coast x Hasta Pronto Cold IPA del Pacifico Sur

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $11 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

A release in ‘The Pacific Rim Collaboration Series’ sees Mangawhai brewery Pacific Coast team up with Hasta Pronto Brewing Co. from Santiago, Chile (both breweries are on the Pacific coast). It’s a rich amber drop full of intense citrus and tropical flavours thanks to Calypso Cryo, Riwaka and Nelson Sauvin hops. Brewed with rice and a lager yeast, this has lush hop characters over a dry base. A riot of colour and a fun IPA all round.

Pacific Coast Possum Playground IPA

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $11 – also in keg Pacific Coast

The first release in ‘The Pacific Rim Collaboration Series’ is with New South Wales brewery Five Barrel Brewing. The big white can hints at the Hazy White IPA spiked with hefeweizen yeast that waits inside. The cloudy, pale drop has the classic wheat beer flavours of banana mingled with a fruit salad of notes from its Galaxy, Motueka and Vic Secret hops.

Bach Brewing Dead South

Aotearoa IPA

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Bach Brewing

Brewed for the annual invitation-only NZIPA Challenge at Smith’s Crafthouse in Queenstown (late June), where 36 beers vie for the coveted crown. This is an all New Zealand affair, brewed with Canterbury-grown Gladfield malts, and loaded with NZ Hops-sourced new season varieties of Kohatu, Nectaron, Motueka and Nelson Sauvin. Fresh and vibrant notes of stonefruit, passionfruit, and mojito lime abound.

McLeod’s Rustic Manor

6.5% ABV, 400ml RRP $11.99

McLeod’s Brewery

McLeod’s newest IPA is a lighter version of a West Coast IPA and packed with two stand-out hops: Citra and Amarillo. Citra hammers in the dank citrus, while Amarillo fills in with ruby grapefruit notes and it’s all balanced on soft bready malt and firm bitterness.

Pacific Coast Animal Hazy IPA

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

Pacific Coast has come up with a real beauty of a hazy here. Arriving in a can as greeny-blue as the Pacific itself, this IPA is beautifully balanced with American and New Zealand hops, a soft, embracing haze and a spike of slightly spicy kawakawa in amongst the juicy peach, apricot and tang of citrus. An exceptional addition to the crowded hazy market, and one that will surely assert itself as word spreads.

Bach Brewing No Schitt Sherlock India

Brown Ale

6.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Bach Brewing

You might say this is the original hybrid: a cross between an American Brown Ale and and India Pale Ale. Brewed with Gladfield pale and specialty malts for notes of biscuit, chocolate and coffee, and generously hopped for layers of floral, citrus and pine, care of both American and New Zealand hops.

Bach Brewing Dead South Aotearoa IPA is loaded with NZ Hops-sourced new season varieties of Kohatu, Nectaron, Motueka and Nelson Sauvin.

Bach Brewing Boom Boom Hazy

Double IPA

8% ABV, 440ml RRP $11.99

Bach Brewing

It’s been 10 years since Bach brewed their first beer, and here’s a big in your face hazy double IPA to get the party going. Weighting in at 8% and packed with a truckload of Amarillo, Citra, Simcoe and Nelson Sauvin hops, it’s juiced up like a tropical fruit cocktail, with hints of pine and wine. Smashing.

Emporium Star Gazer Imperial IPA

8.5% ABV, 330ml RRP $7.50

Emporium Brewing

Kaikōura brewery Emporium is reaching for the stars with this new Imperial IPA. The deep malt base lets the piney, citrus hop notes shine through, leading to a balanced finish. The ABV hides well – be warned!

CIDER

Good George Mango Mimosa Cider

9.5% ABV, 946ml RRP $15 – also in keg

Good George

This is a striking cider – big, bold and orange it’ll catch the eye in any fridge. The classic Good George 946ml “squealer” body has been plastic wrapped from head to toe in a mango graphic that promises a fun brunch at the very least. The cider pours a pale yellow-orange and the flavour profile mingles apple and mango juices with a dry cider finish. A light and refreshing cider that is, as the brewers say, “perfect for boozy brunches and long lunches”.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 74.

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

Year of the underdog

Michael Donaldson takes us behind

the scenes of this year’s New World Beer & Cider Awards…

THE BEAUTY of judging beer “blind” is that all preconceptions go out the window and judges aren’t distracted by brands, labels, or descriptions. It puts everyone on an equal footing and gives small, unheralded breweries a chance to showcase their work against established craft heroes and global brands alike.

As a result, there’s always a surprise or two in beer judging events, and this year’s New World Beer & Cider Awards Top 30 is no exception. More than that, in the eight years I’ve been involved in the competition as Chair of Judges, I’ve never seen a year of the underdog quite like 2023.

It starts with humble Lakeman Brewing in Taupō winning the Supreme Beer Award with their excellently executed Primate Pilsner. And if you’re thinking: “I’ve had that, but it wasn’t a champion” try it again. This is a beer they’ve worked incredibly hard on and have reaped the rewards of always trying to be better. They changed the yeast, played with the hop additions, consulted with their peers and in the words of the brew team (James Cooper and Rory Donovan) they’ve “tinkered”.

Maybe because of their remote location and rural setting with the brewery in the middle of the farm, Cooper and Donovan (who are largely selftaught) employ a Kiwi country attitude to problem-solving: DIY. But they prove that old-fashioned rural ingenuity and meticulous dedication will eventually reap rewards.

Speaking of teaching people to brew, it was a delight to see a beer from Otago Brew School in the Top 30. The school, based in Cromwell, was set up in 2018 by

Otago Polytech to offer a pathway into the industry for aspiring brewers. The beers they produce are made available for sale on campus and in select locations in the region. And now they’ll be going national with their Dunkelweizen, a classic German style that marries a lovely flavour combo of banana and chocolate.

Other unheralded breweries that popped onto the Top 30 radar for the first time include the relatively unknown brewery pair of Ruapehu and Martinborough, the proven Taranaki duo Shining Peak and Three Sisters (who delivered a rare and beautiful Munich Dunkel), and Miramar’s Double Vision, who have been on the cusp of a big award for some time.

Many regulars in the Top 30 are back for more, including McLeod’s and Panhead, who contribute the two iconic pale ales that have defined that style in New Zealand over the past decade: Paradise Pale Ale and Supercharger respectively.

One of the beauties of this year’s competition is the mix of small and global, with two of Asia’s biggest brands – Tiger and Asahi – represented. The Asahi Super Dry 0.0% has to be tried to be believed. In the taste-off for the Champion Beer it more than held its own against fullalcohol beers.

New Zealand’s big breweries did well too with Monteith’s, Mac’s and Steinlager all represented in the Top 30 as well, proving you can do great flavour at a good price.

It’s worth noting the range of hazies in this year’s Top 30. They include the light and airy Petite Pegasus from Shining

Peak (4.2%), and a couple in the 5% range: Mouth Party from Double Vision (constructed to be super-sessionable and not overwhelm your palate) and Urbanaut’s Newtown Hazy Pale Ale.

Of the bigger ABV hazies, Urbanaut’s Silver City is a sleek cryo-hopped beer that’s all about the silky texture, while Unlimited Vis from Ruapehu is what I’d describe as a bit more grunty with some biting bitterness. In short, the range on display proves hazies are far from one-dimensional!

And a huge hat-tip to Bootleg from Matangi with two beers in the Top 30: their iconic Apehanger IPA and the brilliant Belgian Quad, Late Night Monk Fight.

But the brewery of the event was Urbanaut, who delivered 10% of the Top 30 with three hoppy beers: Newtown Hazy Pale Ale, Silver City Citra Hazy IPA, and Bronx Double IPA. All are excellent but I think the Bronx Double IPA is destined for greatness.

See the full Top 30 in the New World Beer & Cider Awards 2023 on page 42.

“Primate Pilsner is a beer they’ve worked incredibly hard on and have reaped the rewards…”

100% craft brewed fermented non-alcoholic beer (not alcohol removed). Tropical and citrus characters from the Citra, Mosaic and Nectaron hops for an unmistakably beer finish.

New faces in New World Beer & Cider Awards Top 30

SOME OF Aotearoa’s newest, smallest and most remote craft breweries have won a place in the New World Beer & Cider Awards Top 30 alongside the country’s biggest names.

There were more than 700 local and international entries for this year’s competition, with an independent panel of 29 expert judges whittling the field down to a Top 30 and 70 Highly Commended. The Supreme Winner was Taupo’s Lakeman with their ‘Primate Pilsner’.

New faces on the awards podium this year include Ruapehu Brewing Co with ‘Unlimited Vis Hazy IPA’, one of the first beers off their new production line in Ohakune; Double Vision with their Miramar-made Mouth Party; and Otago Brew School – a hands-on

Sprig + Fern’s winners in New World Beer & Cider Awards

NELSON CRAFT brewery

Sprig + Fern is toasting its wins at the recent New World Beer & Cider Awards.

Top 30 – Norty Porter

learning environment for students at Otago Polytech Te Pūkenga brewing school, making the grade with their classic dark wheat beer Klassenbester Dunkelweizen.

The Top 30 winners earn shelf space and promotion in New World stores nationwide.

The 2023 New World Beer & Cider Awards Top 30

• 8 Wired Baltic Smoke

• Asahi Super Dry 0.0%

• Baylands Brewery Skull Cracker

• Bootleg Apehanger IPA

• Bootleg Late Night Monk Fight Quad

• Burkes Brewing Co. Unforgiven Porter

• Deep Creek Aloha Guava Passionfruit Sour

• Double Vision Brewing Mouth Party

• Lakeman Brewing Primate Pilsner (Supreme Champion)

• Mac’s Gold

• Martinborough Brewery Hop Elixir IPA

• McLeod’s Paradise Pale Ale

• Monteith’s Tight Lines Pale Ale

• Morningcider Cherry Bomb Cider

• Mount Brewing Co. Tart Rhubarb Cider

• Otago Brew School Klassenbester

Find the full list at newworld.co.nz/Top30

Dunkelweizen

• Panhead Supercharger

• Parrotdog Sundog

• Paynter’s Cider The Pilgrim Dry Cider

• Ruapehu Brewing Co. Unlimited Vis Hazy IPA

• Shining Peak Brewing Petite Pegasus Session Hazy

• Sprig + Fern Brewing Co. Norty Porter

• Steinlager Pure

• Three Sisters Brewery Rumours In The Dark

• Tiger Ultra Low Carb

• Urbanaut Bronx Double IPA

• Urbanaut Newtown Hazy Pale Ale

• Urbanaut Silver Palace Citra Hazy IPA

• Zeffer 0% Passionfruit Cider

• Zeffer Alcoholic Ginger Beer

Don’t miss the NZ Beer Awards 2023

WORK IS underway on the New Zealand Beer Awards, which recognise excellence in beer and honour outstanding achievements across New Zealand’s brewing industry.

In its 17th year, the New Zealand Beer Awards is managed by the Brewers Guild of New Zealand and open to commercial brewers of all production sizes in New Zealand regardless of whether they are Guild members. Entries close 30 June.

The Awards include the Brewers Guild Honours programme, which recognises the contribution by individuals to both the Brewers Guild and the industry. Honours nominations are open now and close on 11 July. The

BrewNZ Conference and Expo will also be held on 4 August, the night before the Awards Gala Dinner.

Important Dates:

Online Entries Open  24 May 2023

Online Entries Close 30 June 2023

Send Entries to GVI Logistics, Christchurch  10–14 July 2023

Judging - Riccarton Park, Christchurch 19–21 July 2023

Awards Presentation Evening 5 August 2023

Find details at brewersguild.org.nz

A limited release Chocolate Porter, with five specialty malts and cacao nibs, is as luxurious, creamy and moreish as ever. The New World Beer & Cider Awards judges describe it best as “like the liquid form of chocolate mousse”.

Highly Commended –Best Bitter

Best Bitter blends five specialty malts for the ideal balance of sweetness, providing wellrounded toffee and biscuit characteristics. This combines with just the right amount of hops to accent the bitterness and give a fruity, earthy aroma without dominating this malt-driven beer.

Highly Commended – The G.O.A.T Doppelbock

Six quality malts give this smooth, full-bodied German-style Doppelbock a dark, almost black colour and a rich, dominant malt aroma and sweetness. It has a warming but soft, smooth mouthfeel, while the aroma is toasted and biscuity with delicate hints of caramel.

Order direct at sprigandfern.co.nz

James and Elissa Cooper and Head Brewer Rory Donovan of Lakeman

Asahi Super Dry 0.0% hits New Zealand

ASAHI SUPER Dry 0.0% – the nonalcohol take on Japan’s #1 beer – has hit shelves in New Zealand, offering consumers an alcohol-free version of the super-premium brand, Asahi Super Dry.

The new arrival delivers Asahi Super Dry’s signature crisp and refreshing taste without the alcohol. Asahi’s Master Brewers have combined pioneering Japanese brewing techniques with the finest barley, maize, hops, and yeast available. The base recipe of Asahi Super Dry is taken through a process of de-alcoholisation to create the finished beer at 0.0% ABV, delivering a superpremium alcohol-free beer.

Its exceptional quality was recognised at London’s World AlcoholFree Awards 2023 in March, with judges remarking that it is a “classic lager that’s indistinguishable from a full-strength version”.

It has already made an impact locally too, being named in the New World Beer & Cider Awards Top 30 alongside full-strength brews from some of New

Zealand’s biggest and best-known craft brewers.

Ready for the rugby fans

Asahi Super Dry is also the official beer of Rugby World Cup 2023 with Asahi Super Dry and Asahi Super Dry 0.0% to be served at all tournament venues across France, spanning 48 matches in nine cities.

Such a partnership plays a key role in the ambition of Asahi Group to expand the sales of their Global Premium Brand Asahi Super Dry, including the new 0.0% variant, while elevating the fan experience, live in stadiums or at home.

The market for non-alcohol and lowalcohol beverages continues to expand globally and the way consumers are drinking also continues to diversify. By popularising these products, Asahi Group aims to propose appropriate alcohol consumption and new situations in which to enjoy alcohol and provide new choices for people who choose not to drink alcohol.

Asahi Group NZ

So, we brewed you a beer. Inspired by the big bold flavours of Bird Dog IPA, but without the bite. Little Bird is an alcohol-free* IPA, with a deliciously-puritanical, true expression of the hop flavour. It’s so tasty, you won’t even realise you’re not drinking. Until the morning, of course.

*Contains not more than 0.5% Alc/Vol

Just because you don’t want a beer, it doesn’t mean you don’t want a beer.

Dive into a d r a m

Discover iconic classics and some intriguing new releases in this showcase of Scotch available in New Zealand…

RRP $40-$69.99

The Famous Grouse

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $44.99

Hancocks

This iconic brand blends The Macallan and Highland Park single malts. It has aromas of candied fruits, buttery shortbread and citrus peel, leading to a palate of dried fruit, soft spices and a hint of oak.

Bell’s Original

40% ABV, 1L RRP $49.99

Lion

A smooth blended Scotch with a medium body and flavours of barley and cereals with nut oils, hints of wood and spice. The finish is short, with fruitcake and smoke.

Grant’s Triple Wood

40% ABV, 1L RRP $49.99

Federal Merchants

‘Triple Wood’ refers to maturation in three virgin oak (for spice), American oak (for vanilla) and ex-bourbon (for brown sugar sweetness). A clean aroma with notes of ripe pear and summer fruit. On the palate there is vanilla sweetness, malt and light florals. A long, sweet finish with a subtle hint of smoke.

Pig’s Nose Blended Scotch Whisky

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

EuroVintage

This whisky’s name plays on the notion that it’s as smooth as a pig’s nose. Produced in specially selected first-fill oak casks, it combines oakaged Speyside, Islay and Lowland malts with grain whiskies. A rich aroma with orange peel and toffee, it’s gentle and sweet on the palate with a touch of spice.

Chivas Regal 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $57.99

Pernod Ricard

A combination of malt and grain Scotch whiskies. Aromas of honey, herbs and rich fruit with flavours of ripe apple, vanilla, hazelnut and butterscotch. A rich and lingering finish.

Grant’s Triple Wood Rum Cask Edition

40% ABV, 1L RRP $57.99

Federal Merchants

Grant’s traditional Scotch meets the exotic flavours of the Caribbean. After ageing in oak barrels, the whisky is further matured in Caribbean rum casks, adding flavours of tropical fruit, rich vanilla oak and a touch of sweet spice.

Grant’s Triple Wood Smoky

40% ABV, 1L RRP $57.99

Federal Merchants

A blend of grain and malt whiskies matured in three distinct woods; similar to Grant’s original Triple Wood blend but with more emphasis on peated whiskies to create a smooth and fruity taste with subtle smoke.

Bank Note 5YO Blended Scotch

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Glengarry

This 40% Speyside and Highland malt, 60% Lowland grain whisky blend was first made 150 years ago. Fresh, light aromas, a delicate sweetness, subtle spice and a mellow finish.

Crabbie’s Yardhead Single Malt

Scotch Whisky

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Premium Liquor Co.

Made at a mystery distillery and bottled by Edinburgh-based John Crabbie & Co, Yardhead is a single malt made for mixing. A sweet, young single malt it offers notes of shortbread biscuits, vanilla, toffee apples and citrus throughout the palate.

Cutty Sark

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Thirsty Camel

American oak casks dominate the flavour of this blended whisky with a share of first fill ex-sherry cask adding extra depth and a smooth mouth feel.

Chivas Regal 13YO Extra American Rye Cask

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Pernod Ricard

Selective finishing in American Rye casks adds a mellowness to the Chivas 13YO blended Scotch with flavours of sweet juicy orange and creamy milk chocolate.

Chivas Regal 13YO Extra Sherry Cask

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Pernod Ricard

A special selection of whiskies matured in Oloroso sherry casks, this is a rich blend with aromas of ripe pear, creamy toffee and a hint of ginger. The palate blends tropical melon, vanilla and caramel, with spicy cinnamon and hints of almond.

Note: Products without a specific RRP available are listed as POA and appear alphabetically at the end of the relevant indicative price category.

Chivas Regal 13YO Extra Tequila Cask

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Pernod Ricard

A portion of this 13YO blended Scotch whisky is finished in tequila casks. It has aromas of sweet vanilla with lifted citrus and a palate full of light and fruity vanilla notes, laced with grapefruit and pineapple.

Naked Malt

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69

Hancocks

A blend of single malts matured for an additional six months in first-fill Oloroso sherry casks (hence ‘naked’). A rich, fruity and versatile whisky.

Finlaggan Old Reserve Islay

Single Malt

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

EuroVintage

Aromas of earthy, smoky peat and salty ocean breeze abound in this Islay single malt. Pungent peat smoke, chewy sweet malt, pepper, tar and a touch of iodine on the palate with a long and warming finish.

Glenalmond Highland Blended Malt

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

EuroVintage

A blend of malts from a group of Scotland’s finest malt whisky distilleries. A sweet aroma of malt, vanilla, caramel and spice leads to a soft, fruity palate with sherry overtones.

Tamnavulin Sherry Cask

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Hancocks

After maturing in American oak barrels, this whisky is finessed in three different sherry casks. It has aromas of vanilla pod, banana, caramelised orange and fresh ginger, with a warm palate of glazed nectarines and frangipane, sticky toffee pudding, and Seville oranges. The finish is complex and rich.

Tamnavulin Speyside Double Cask

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Hancocks

A double cask whisky matured in American oak barrels for a sweet, mellow taste with a rich, smooth sherry cask finish. Aromas of apple, toffee and honey with sweet marzipan and subtle tangy marmalade. The palate is fresh and mellow with pear, peach and pineapple flavours, and a hint of Demerara sugar.

Tomatin Legacy

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Premium Liquor Co.

Time in bourbon barrels and virgin oak casks brings a light sweetness to Tomatin Legacy, with aromas of vanilla, marshmallow, pineapple and lemon. The palate delivers gentle flavours of candy, pine, lemon sherbet, apples and sponge cake ahead of a light, clean finish.

Adelphi’s Private Stock Blend

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A blend of whiskies selected by one of Scotland’s most famed independent bottlers, Adelphi. Smooth with plenty of honeyed sweetness from Spey and Highland malts, a touch of seaside maritime notes from a coastal distillery and a gentle peat fire smokiness in the background.

Bonailie

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

“Bonailie” is a Scots Gaelic word for a drink shared with a friend when parting ways. This blended malt is produced by the team at the Bladnoch distillery in the Lowlands, marrying three single malts to create a whisky of sweet, creamy flavours and textures and a gentle nutty finish.

Hankey Bannister ‘Original’

40% ABV, 1L RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A slightly sweet aroma with hints of vanilla and oak. This 12-year-old blended Scotch is medium bodied and balanced with sweet soft vanilla and a slightly smoky finish.

Hankey Bannister ‘Heritage Blend’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The recipe for this Hankey Bannister is an inspired recreation of an original bottling of Hankey Bannister made between 1924 and 1928. It is full, sweet and rich with hints of Christmas cake and a delicate hint of smoke.

Loch Lomond ‘Original’

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Loch Lomond’s ‘Original’ single malt is an old-fashioned style of whisky with soft nuances of peat smoke and a heather honey aroma, leading to a more savoury character on the palate, which is rich and full-bodied, before finishing with hints of molasses and citrus fruit.

“Bonailie” is a Scots Gaelic word for a drink shared with a friend when parting ways.

Speyburn ‘Bradan Orach’

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A very easy drinking, quaffable single malt Scotch whisky with flavours of creamy toffee, citrus (particularly oranges, marmalade), delicate floral notes and a drying finish with a wee whiff of smoke in the background.

RRP $70 - $99.99

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $70.99

Pernod Ricard

A permanent benchmark expression created in tribute to The Glenlivet founder George Smith. The classic fruitiness of The Glenlivet is complemented with a creaminess and sweetness from selective use of American first fill oak casks. Delicate sweet orange aromas alongside flavours of pear and toffee apple.

Aerstone Land Cask 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Federal Merchants

The two Aerstone releases (this expression and its sibling ‘Sea Cask’ below) were created to simplify the taste messaging in the single malt category. This peated single malt has a rich and punchy peat aroma with zesty citrus notes. The peat and wood smoke on the palate is followed by a gentle sweetness with hints of spice and ripe fruits leading to a lingering smokiness.

Aerstone Sea Cask 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Federal Merchants

Maturation in seaside warehouses adds a sea salt character to this smooth Speyside-style single malt. It has a light and floral aroma with delicate oak, leading to flavours of lightly toasted almonds, candy floss and a gentle vanilla oak, balanced with a touch of tannin.

Glen Moray Classic

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Thirsty Camel

Glen Moray’s signature single malt is aged for an average of seven years in entirely ex-bourbon casks, the majority of which are first fill. A light, smooth, easy-drinking whisky with shortbread character, toffee sweetness and fresh herbal notes.

The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Pernod Ricard

A portion of this whisky is finished in barrels that previously held Caribbean rum, creating a whisky with a tropical twist. Sweet pear, red apple and ripe banana on the nose, with a rich palate of caramel toffee and tropical fruit.

The Glenlivet 12YO

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $74.99

Pernod Ricard

This icon of Speyside single malt has a fruity aroma that persists on the palate alongside its signature nutty and citrus notes and strong pineapple. The finish is long and creamy.

Johnnie Walker Black Label

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Lion

An iconic blend that uses whiskies aged for a minimum of 12 years. Rich with dark fruit, sweet vanilla and Johnnie Walker’s signature smokiness. Flavours of intense sweet vanilla give way to orange zest and aromas of spice and raisins. The finish is smooth and layered with rich smoke, peat and malt.

Johnnie Walker Double Black

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Lion

Taking inspiration from Johnnie Walker Black Label, the Double Black is a more intensely smoky expression, influenced by peaty West Coast and Islay single malts. Flavours of peat smoke, rich raisins and apples, pears and citrus soften into sweet vanillas and spice. A warming finish of oak tannins and smoke.

Laphroaig Select

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Beam Suntory

This release combines five different casks of Laphroaig single malt Scotch. This includes whisky aged in Oloroso sherry butts, Pedro Ximénez seasoned hogsheads, first fill bourbon quarter casks and new American oak. The final addition is the Laphroaig 10, which is aged for a decade. A complex, deep whisky with notes of smoky peat, spicy oak and sweetness.

Monkey Shoulder

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Federal Merchants

This whisky has a light palate, subtle sweetness from ageing in first fill bourbon barrels and no heavy peat. It has delicate floral aromas alongside zesty orange, peach and apricot. Flavours of creamy vanilla toffee, oak notes and a hint of spice lead to a smooth finish with a lingering sweetness.

Glen Moray Classic Cabernet Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $77.99

Thirsty Camel

This sweet and full-bodied whisky is finished in Cabernet red wine casks, where it develops notes of spice and fruit, balancing with toasted oak vanilla and smooth, warming flavours.

Glen Moray Classic Chardonnay Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $77.99

Thirsty Camel

Finishing in Chardonnay casks gives this whisky its balanced characters of caramelised fruit, butterscotch and lingering notes of toasted oats. The finish is of nutty vanilla, soft cinnamon spice and gentle florals.

Glen Moray Classic Peated Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $77.99

Thirsty Camel

A more intense and subtly smoked expression of Glen Moray’s Classic Single Malt. Matured in ex-bourbon casks for added spiciness, it has complex layers of peat smoke with creamy vanilla and a long sweet and spicy finish.

Glen Moray Classic Port Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $77.99

Thirsty Camel

This light and fruity expression is finished for eight months in port pipes (casks used for maturing port wine). The whisky picks up intense characters of summer fruit, dark chocolate and cinnamon and a distinct pink hue.

Glen Moray Classic Sherry Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $77.99

Thirsty Camel

Maturation in Oloroso sherry casks adds vibrant dried fruit and earthy, nutty notes to the hallmark vanilla and light oak of the Glen Moray Classic whisky.

Wemyss Family Collection The Hive

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $78.99

Glengarry

A blended Scotch that combines multiple Speyside single malts to create a whisky full of honeyed sweetness, zesty citrus and floral character. Gentle with a rounded, smooth mouthfeel.

Wemyss Family Collection Peat Chimney

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $78.99

Glengarry

A blended whisky that balances fresh citrus flavours and nuanced smoke to create an approachable introduction to the peaty whisky style. Dried pear, fresh lime and barley sugar on the palate soften the smoke character.

Wemyss Family Collection Spice King

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $78.99

Glengarry

A big-bodied and complex malt whisky, Spice King has an initial sweetness that yields to layers of spice. Gentle peat smoke intensifies the spicy flavours while adding a punchy and peppery finish.

Glen Grant Arboralis

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Thirsty Camel

‘Arboralis’ means ‘light from within the trees’. Aged in ex-bourbon and ex-Spanish sherry oak casks, this whisky has aromas of dried raisins, honeysuckle, oaky malt and hints of lemon, with flavours of oak and butterscotch that merge with dried fruits and a light spice.

Spey River Bourbon Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Brandhouse

Matured in traditional American oak casks and then transferred into first fill American bourbon casks, this whisky has a rich malty aroma with hints of cooked fruits. Crisp and fresh on the palate with malty sweetness, delicate oak, subtle spice and hints of toasted almonds.

Spey River Sherry Cask Finish

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Brandhouse

This whisky is aged in traditional American oak casks and then used sherry casks, adding subtle notes of dried fruit, cinnamon and oak to the aroma. The palate is rich and spicy with layers of sweet oak, raisins, apricots and fresh oak.

Arran Barrel Reserve

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $80

Tickety-Boo

This entry-level single malt is 100% matured in first fill bourbon barrels and combines casks at 7-8 years old with older casks to create a fresh and vibrant whisky with the sweet fruit character that is a hallmark of Arran. It has aromas of apple and pear, leading to a balanced palate of citrus and light vanilla sweetness.

Auchentoshan American Oak

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $82.99

Beam Suntory

Aged in bourbon barrels, this single malt Scotch has aromas of bourbon-infused vanilla and coconut with layers of zesty citrus fruit. The palate features vanilla cream, coconut and white peach, with a crisp, spiced finish.

Spey River Sherry Cask Finish has a rich and spicy palate with layers of sweet oak, raisins, apricots and fresh oak.

Cutty Sark Prohibition

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $83.99

Thirsty Camel

A blend of single malt and grain whiskies aged in American sherry oak casks, this whisky has subtle flavours of vanilla and spice with layers of ripe citrus and honey and a hint of peppery notes.

Deanston Virgin Oak Highland

Single Malt

46.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

EuroVintage

Part of Deanston’s core range, this single malt has flavours of candied fruits and vanilla toffee balanced with heather honey and a lightly spiced, oaky finish.

Glenfiddich 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Federal Merchants

Glenfiddich’s signature expression has sweet, fruity notes that develop into butterscotch, cream, malt and subtle oak flavours. The finish is long and smooth.

Glen Grant 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $86.99

Thirsty Camel

This Speyside single malt has aromas of sweet pear and vanilla. The palate has orchard fruit and rich malt notes, leading to a long and complex finish.

Bowmore No.1

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $87.99

Beam Suntory

The name refers to the No.1 vault at Bowmore’s Islay distillery, which is the world’s oldest Scotch maturation warehouse. Bowmore No.1 has vanilla sweetness with a hint of toasted coconut, cinnamon and lime to complement its smoky notes.

The Ardmore Legacy

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Beam Suntory

This Highland whisky has a honeyed aroma with subtle peat. The smoke becomes more pronounced on the palate but is balanced by rich honey and spice flavours. The finish is full with lingering smoke and spice.

Bowmore 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Beam Suntory

This whisky is matured in Bowmore’s historic No.1 vaults on Islay. Its trademark smoky peat aroma is balanced by lemon and honey, while on the palate it is warm with dark chocolate flavours, and smoky with a long rounded finish.

Chivas Regal XV

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Pernod Ricard

A 15-year-old blended Scotch finished in Grande Champagne Cognac casks. It has a rich, sweet aroma with concentrated notes of stewed apple, marmalade, honey, cinnamon and sultanas. It’s smooth and fruity on the palate with poached pear, butterscotch and caramel toffee, and notes of vanilla on the finish.

Cù Bòcan Signature

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Premium Liquor Co.

The signature expression from Cù Bòcan has been aged in bourbon, Oloroso sherry and North American virgin oak casks. Light smoke intertwines with rich citrus and exotic spices. Subtly smoky and surprisingly sweet, it is an excellent entry to the world of lightly peated whisky.

Gladstone Axe American Oak

41% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Thirsty Camel

This whisky is made from a selection of malt whiskies from 14 different Highland and Islay malt distilleries and aged in American oak bourbon casks, giving it sweet mellow notes of vanilla, apple and spice.

Gladstone Axe ‘The Black Axe’

41% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Thirsty Camel

Like its sibling whisky above, The Black Axe is made from a selection of malt whiskies from 14 different Highland and Islay malt distilleries, but with a higher proportion of Islay whisky, giving it a smokier, spicier character alongside its notes of vanilla and stonefruit.

Jura Journey

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Hancocks

This single malt is aged in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels and has aromas of vanilla spice, citrus and a hint of light smoke. Flavours of cinnamon, pear, pecan and toffee fudge lead to a rich finish of vanilla, spice and whispers of smoke.

Kingsbarns Dream to Dram

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Glengarry

A light, intensely fruity, floral and balanced whisky with aromas of banana, pineapple and summer berries, with a slight herbal note. Flavours of soft toffee, custard pastry and redcurrants with a spicy ginger finish.

Tomatin 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Premium Liquor Co.

A smooth and silky whisky matured in traditional Scotch whisky, ex-bourbon and ex-Spanish sherry casks. A rich, fruity aroma leads to sweet flavours of ripe apples, pears and a subtle hint of nut before a long, pleasantly oily finish.

Wemyss Malts Velvet Fig Blended Malt

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Glengarry

A small-batch, handcrafted malt whisky full of rich fruit and complex wood character. Flavours of ripe figs, Medjool dates, apricots, raisins and sultanas, milk chocolate spiced with nutmeg and ginger and sweet chestnut and toasted walnuts on the finish.

Glen Moray 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $90.99

Thirsty Camel

Aged in American oak, this is a balanced whisky with a subtle sweetness. Aromas of vanilla toffee, berry fruits and freshly cut herbs lead to a palate of toasted oak and summer fruits. The finish is sweet with a subtle oak finish.

The Glenlivet 12YO Licensed Dram

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $92.99

Pernod Ricard

Aromas of peach, strawberry jam, cinnamon and gingerbread lead to flavours of honey, vanilla custard, hazelnut and liquorice. Long, slightly sweet finish with lasting spice.

Aberlour 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

Pernod Ricard

Ageing in traditional oak and seasoned sherry butts gives this whisky a soft, mellow character. Aromas of red apple continue on the palate with rich chocolate and a sherried character. The long finish is sweet and spicy.

Auchentoshan 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

Beam Suntory

This Lowland single malt whisky has aromas of toasted almonds and caramelised toffee with a burst of citrus. Smooth on the palate with sweet notes alongside hints of tangerine and lime. The finish is gingery and slightly dry with a lingering nuttiness.

Finlaggan Eilean Mor Islay Single Malt

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

EuroVintage

A full-bodied Islay single malt with spicy peat smoke, tar and iodine on the palate alongside light oiliness and sweet malt.

The Glenlivet Captain’s Reserve

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

Pernod Ricard

The Captain’s Reserve is aged in bourbon and sherry casks before selective finishing in Cognac casks. Sweet, fruity aromas and a palate full of mandarins in syrup, poached pears, raisins and chocolate, leading to a smooth finish.

Glenglassaugh Revival

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $97

Hancocks

The Revival was the first expression released by Glenglassaugh distillery after it was mothballed for more than 20 years. This Highland single malt has been matured in a mix of ex-red wine and fresh bourbon casks, then vatted and re-racked for double maturation in rich sherry casks. It has rich aromas of sweet caramel, nutty sherry, ripe red fruit and charred oak with a rounded, creamy palate of oranges, plums, cherry and walnuts, chocolate, honey mead, sherry and soft spiced oak.

The Arran Malt 10YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $99

Tickety-Boo

Aromas of sweet oak and honey lead to a crisp, malty palate with a slight nuttiness in this whisky from the Isle of Arran. As the malt opens, the Arran hallmarks of citrus and sweet fruit emerge. The finish is clean and fresh with a lingering creamy sweetness.

Finlaggan Eilean Mor Islay Single Malt is a full-bodied Islay single malt with spicy peat smoke, tar and iodine on the palate.

Benriach 10YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $99

Hancocks

This whisky is described as “classic Speyside” in character with maturation in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks creating a lively, fruit-laden single malt with notes of oak spices, green apple, dried fruit and subtle aniseed, lemon zest and barley.

Jura 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99

Hancocks

There’s a smooth, smoky sherry sweetness to this whisky, which is aged 10 years in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels and finished in aged Oloroso sherry casks. It has a fruity aroma with notes of cracked pepper and dark chocolate, and flavours of stonefruit, ginger and freshly ground coffee.

Laphroaig 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99

Beam Suntory

This is the original Laphroaig, distilled the same way for more than 70 years and the foundation for all other Laphroaig expressions. Rich aromas of peat continue on the palate, which is bold and smoky and has a hint of seaweed and a subtle sweetness. Full-bodied with a long finish.

Woven Whisky Experience

No.11 Peachy

45.5% ABV, 500ml RRP $99.99

Glengarry

A fruit-forward whisky full of ripe peach flavour. The distinctively modern packaging on the Woven whisky range speaks to the approach of the team behind the Woven brand, based in Leith, where they create their range of blended whiskies.

An Cnoc 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

An Cnoc is from the Knockdhu distillery in Aberdeenshire. Light and smooth with a surprising depth of flavour. Fruity floral notes on the nose with some lemon, honey and vanilla creme brûlé e. The palate is full and sweet and lingers on delicate spice and a vanilla/fruity flavour.

Ardnamurchan ‘AD/’

46.8% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Produced at one of the most remote distilleries in Scotland, this is the core release from Ardnamurchan. It retains the distillery’s signature lightly peated style and starts with apricots and zesty oranges, chocolate and Brazil nuts. The palate offers salty taffy, lemonade, Christmas cake and a warming bonfire on the finish.

Benromach 10YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The Benromach distillery is famous for its traditional style of single malt whisky, with flavours of crème brûlé e, dried fruit, peppery oak spices and a distinctive, gentle background note of peat smoke that is not often seen in Speyside whiskies.

Creag Dhu

40.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A new whisky created by master distiller Chris Molyneaux in partnership with an undisclosed Speyside distillery, chosen and selected exclusively from European oak ex-sherry casks that are a minimum of eight years old. A smooth, rich and spicy whisky with notes of date and walnut cake, spicy caramel and Oloroso sherry. A malty, toffee apple tone joins a satisfying touch of smoke in the finish.

Edradour 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Edradour is Scotland’s smallest (legal) distillery and is in the hills behind Pitlochry in Perthshire. The 10-year-old expression is rich with big vanillas, and a lovely round complexity with a touch of chocolate peppermint.

Glengoyne 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This expression from Glengoyne is matured in a mixture of the distillery’s typical ex-sherry casks, contributing rich fruits, and spices, as well as first fill ex-bourbon casks, for honey, citrus and vanilla.

Glen Scotia Double Cask

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The ‘Double Cask’ is finished in a selection of first fill bourbon and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. The nose combines rich fudge, fresh orchard fruit and an earthy note. It is oily on the palate with rich vanilla and more fudge; it has a slight briny character with a touch of warming spiced fruit developing.

Hankey Bannister 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The nose on this 12-year-old whisky is slightly sweet with hints of vanilla and oak. It is medium-bodied and well-balanced with sweet soft vanilla and a slightly smoky finish.

Woven Whisky Experience

No.11 Peachy is a fruitforward whisky full of ripe peach flavour.

Lindores Abbey ‘MCDXCIV’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This brand new single malt hails from the spiritual home of Scotch whisky, Lindores Abbey in the Kingdom of Fife. Founded in 2017, the site on which Lindores Abbey Distillery sits dates back to 1494 with the first recorded mention of malted barley being used to produce aqua vitae. Using locally grown barley, the whisky has a mellow vanilla, fruity, vibrant and buttery flavour with citrus touches and a hint of pepper from the wood.

Old Pulteney 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Hailing from one of Scotland’s most northerly distilleries, Old Pulteney is in the old fishing village of Wick. Pulteney’s whiskies are known for their gentle honeyed, vanilla sweetness, and a touch of marzipan nuttiness with a distinctive slightly salty tang.

Scarabus by Hunter Laing

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Scarabus is a new single malt whisky selected by whisky company Hunter Laing & Co. which marked the opening of its new Ardnahoe distillery on Islay. It has aromas of sweet syrupy pears, white raisins, freshly roasting peanuts and peaty smoke. A briny sea salt and leathery note adds depth, with a nuttiness and mace spice with vanilla on an oily mouthfeel.

Scarabus 10YO by Hunter Laing

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Aged in a combination of refill ex-bourbon barrels and virgin oak casks for 10 years, this classic peated Islay whisky is softly smoky on the nose. Hints of leather and buttery cereal notes develop. The palate combines golden syrup and vanilla with developing peat smoke and gentle spice. A long and lingering finish.

Speyburn 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A clean, soft and smooth nose with delicate touches of fruit, toffee and a touch of citrus. The palate is smooth, rounded and fruity with a hint of smoke and citrus in the background.

Wolfburn ‘Aurora’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This is the second expression from Wolfburn distillery, founded in 2013 in the seaside village of Thurso on the northern edges of mainland Scotland. Matured in a mixture of American oak and ex-sherry casks, the latter bringing more nutty, orchard fruity flavours. The malty, maritime flavour comes from slow fermentation and seaside maturing.

Wolfburn ‘Morven’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The new peated expression from the Wolfburn distillery is made from barley that has been traditionally infused with the smoke of burning peat. The smoke is soft to start, with aromas of fresh sea air and a fruity, floral tone. Full-bodied flavour on the palate with a tang of smoke and spice, and a vanilla sweetness that becomes spiced and gently peppery in the finish.

Wolfburn ‘Northland’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA Whisky Galore

This is a traditional coastal Highland style whisky made with unpeated malt and aged in quarter casks that formerly held peaty whisky. Softly fruity and sweet to start, with buttery, nutty flavours that drift towards a very subtle and lingering peat smoke finish.

RRP $100 - $129.99

Machrie Moor

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $100

Tickety-Boo

This is the peated expression of the Arran Single Malt. There is delicate peat smoke on the nose with a hint of sweet tropical fruit and vanilla. The American oak influence is apparent in the mouth with more intense vanilla sweetness and a touch of coconut. The finish is fresh and zesty with subtle smoke.

Glen Grant 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $103.99

Thirsty Camel

Layers of apple pie, toffee, caramel and almonds emerge on the palate of this single malt. On the finish, soft summer fruits linger with honey and hints of spice.

Bunnahabhain 12YO Islay Single Malt

46.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $104.99

EuroVintage

This Islay single malt was the beginning of the Bunnahabhain range. It’s fresh and aromatic with subtle smoke, sweet fruit, nuts, vanilla and a delicate coastal influence.

Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair Single Malt

46.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $104.99

EuroVintage

This whisky from Islay distillery Bunnahabhain is pronounced “Stew-rah-dur” and means “helmsman” in Scots Gaelic. This sherries malt has a brackish, coastal tinge with a smattering of sea spray and dried fruit.

Chivas Regal 18YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $104.99

Pernod Ricard

A rich and multi-layered blend using various malt and grain whiskies from distilleries all over Scotland, including Chivas’ classic Speyside malt from Strathisla. Layered aromas of dried fruit, spice and buttery toffee give way to a velvety dark chocolate palate with floral notes, mellow smokiness and a lingering finish.

Glenfiddich Fire & Cane

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $104.99

Federal Merchants

The fourth release in Glenfiddich’s ‘Experiment’ series, Fire & Cane is a blend of peated whisky and malts matured in bourbon barrels and finished in Latin rum casks, creating a whisky with lingering campfire smokiness and toffee sweetness.

Benriach The Smoky Ten

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $108

Hancocks

This whisky has been crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and three cask-matured for at least 10 years in a combination of bourbon barrels, Jamaican rum casks and toasted virgin oak. It has layers of ripe fruit, aromatic smoke and toasted oak spice with a balanced sweet and richly smoky finish.

Glenglassaugh Evolution

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $108.99

Hancocks

This Highland single malt whisky is aged in ex-Tennessee first fill whiskey barrels and has rich aromas of sweet barley, pineapple and buttery vanilla leading to deeper oak spices and caramelised pear. In the mouth there is white peppery oak, crisp green apple and freshly cracked barley. A gentle salted caramel emerges alongside hints of ripe banana and fruit salad syrup. It finishes with classic oak spices, soft fruit and vanilla.

Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie Scottish Barley

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Hancocks

This expression from Bruichladdich showcases the classic Laddie style: elegant and floral with a signature salt-citrus tang.

Cask Islay Single Malt

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Glengarry

A small batch single malt Scotch whisky, Cask Islay is matured in bourbon casks and has notes of juicy barley, citrus, burnt toffee and rich peat smoke.

Fettercairn 12YO Single Malt

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Hancocks

A honeyed aroma leads to flavours of vanilla and pear, with soft spices. Notes of nectarine and tropical fruit, with subtle roasted coffee, clove, and ginger. Lingering finish of sultanas and black toffee.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $109.99

Lion

A creamy blend of Speyside and Highland whiskies. An initial delicate sweetness and gentle smoke on the palate develops into sweet fruit and deeper velvety, honeyed tones followed by subtle smoke and oak on the finish.

Woven Whisky Experience No.12 Echoes

47.3% ABV, 500ml RRP $109.99

Glengarry

This blended whisky is a balance of smoke and fruit – both emerge in the aroma and continue on the palate alongside cooked apples. Balanced flavours of peat and toffee add to the complexity. The team at Woven say it’s a whisky designed to make you stop, pause and “…tune in to flavours that were there all along.”

Arran Amarone Cask Finish Single Malt

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $110

Tickety-Boo

After maturing in traditional oak casks, the Arran Single Malt in this bottling was finished in a selection of Amarone wine casks sourced from an artisan producer of Amarone wine in the Veneto region of Italy. It has aromas of cherry, Turkish delight and chocolate, with flavours of poached pears, cranberry and honey.

Arran Port Cask Finish Single Malt

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $110

Tickety-Boo

Port casks sourced from an artisan producer of this iconic Portuguese fortified wine are used to finish this single malt from Arran. It has cinnamon and baked apples on the nose, leading to a palate of vanilla spice, ripe citrus, dried fruits and nuttiness. There is spice, bitter orange, chocolate and cherries on the finish.

Arran Sauterne Cask Finish Single Malt

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $110

Tickety-Boo

Traditional Arran Single Malt is matured in oak casks for eight years and then finished in a selection of Sauternes wine casks sourced from a small producer of the Bordeaux sweet white wine. The nose is full of citrus and honey sweetness that persists on the palate, sliding into spice, salt, vanilla, sultana and toasted oak. The finish is rich with apricots, melon and honeysuckle.

Benriach The Smoky Ten has layers of ripe fruit, aromatic smoke and toasted oak spice.

Kingsbarns Balcomie Sherry Cask

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $110

Glengarry

A fruity, light and balanced whisky bottled from ex-Oloroso American oak sherry butts. Aromas of treacle, sultanas and fruit loaf with a touch of dark chocolate and berries. The palate is full of sweet pineapple, orange peel and cake spice.

Benriach The Twelve

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $112

Hancocks

To make this whisky, Benriach spirit is threecask matured for at least 12 years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels and port casks. It is a smooth, sherry-rich single malt, layered with baked fruit, maple honey and cocoa, and with a lingering sultana and spiced mocha finish.

The Glendronach 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $114

Hancocks

A richly sherried single malt matured in a combination of Spanish Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks. Rich, creamy and smooth on the palate, it has rich oak and sherry sweetness with raisins and soft fruits. Spicy, with medium length and a dry finish.

Glenglassaugh Torfa

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $114

Hancocks

This peaty Highland single malt made in limited quantities at Glenglassaugh uses richly peated malted barley that has been dried in the traditional way, over peat infused kilns, giving a unique smoky flavour. ‘Torfa’ is a unique expression and quite different to the usual style of whisky produced in the Highlands.

The Glenlivet 15YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $114.99

Pernod Ricard

A portion of this whisky is matured in French Limousin oak casks, used most commonly for ageing cognacs, giving it a rich and exotic character. A rich and creamy whisky with buttery notes on the nose and fruity, nutty flavours on the palate.

Arran Quarter Cask

56.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $115

Tickety-Boo

This cask-strength whisky is aged for 8-10 years, matured in bourbon casks and then finished in quarter casks (40-80 litres), which adds more intense cask influence and ramps up the bourbon spice character.

Machrie Moor Peated Cask Strength

56.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $115

Tickety-Boo

This peated Arran Single Malt displays all the freshness of the distillery’s house style, with an added puff of smoke and earthiness. Citrus notes on the nose with a background of peat and smoke; a robust whisky with the typical orchard fruits of Arran coming to the fore over a layer of toasted brioche and red berries. On the finish there is citrus, smoke, chocolate, vanilla and coconut.

Bunnahabhain ‘Toiteach A Dha’

Single Malt

46.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

EuroVintage

Meaning “Smoky Two” in Scots Gaelic, Toiteach A Dhà (pronounced “Toch-ach ah-ghaa”) is a sequel to the original Bunnahabhain single malt. It’s made using a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks which were matured in the distillery’s coastal warehouses on Bunnahabhain Bay. It has peaty aromas with hints of sherry and rich oak, which persist on the palate, balanced with delicate pepper.

Cù Bòcan Creation 3

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

Premium Liquor Co.

This unique expression captures the tastes and smells of a Moroccan souk thanks to the Moroccan Cabernet Sauvignon casks used for this innovative whisky. Notes of light smoke with a touch of strawberries in balsamic vinegar, exotic spices, citrus and tropical fruits.

Cù Bòcan Creation 4

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

Premium Liquor Co.

The fourth “Creation” from Cù Bòcan is aged in Tawny Port and Cognac casks and is a nod to The Antrim Cocktail, marrying two of Europe’s most revered drinks: Port and Cognac. The result is a medley of plum jam, grilled peach, stewed forest fruit, cinnamon and sweet campfire smoke.

Finlaggan Cask Strength Islay

Single Malt

58% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

EuroVintage

This cask-strength expression from Finlaggan has intense peat smoke aromas and a palate full of rich, sweet smoke as well as iodine, lemon zest and mouthcoating oiliness. Waves of tarry peat lead to a long finish.

Highland Park 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

Hancocks

Matured predominantly in European and American sherry seasoned oak casks, this 12YO expression has flavours of heather honey, rich fruitcake, winter spices, Seville oranges and smoky peat.

Talisker 10YO

45.8% ABV, 750ml RRP $119.99

Lion

The classic expression from the oldest distillery on Skye has powerful peat smoke aromas with a hint of briny sea salt and citrus sweetness. The smoke persists on the palate along with dried fruit sweetness, strong barley malt flavours and pepper. The long finish is warm and peppery with a sweet character.

Arran Sherry Cask

55.8% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

This cask-strength blend of Arran Sherry Cask is 100% matured in sherry casks for eight years, rather than being sherry-finished. This additional time in cask intensifies the sherry character, with aromas of toffee, sweet spice and fruit leading to a palate of ripe fig and cherries with a long finish of dark chocolate, mandarin and fig.

Benriach The Smoky Twelve

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $124

Hancocks

This whisky is crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and three-cask matured for at least 12 years in bourbon barrels, sherry casks, and Marsala wine casks. It is a smooth, creamy single malt, layered with flavours of ripe fruit, smoky sweetness and warming oak spice.

The GlenDronach Peated 10YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $124.90

Hancocks

In contrast to the traditional, non-peated character of The GlenDronach, this expression has been distilled using peated malted barley. The subtle peated notes complement the classic GlenDronach Highland character of crisp fruit and barley, and the rich sherry notes drawn from the wood.

Machrie Moor Peated 10YO Single Malt

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $125

Tickety-Boo

A new 10 year-old release of the iconic Peated Arran Single Malt. Rich, sweet spiced notes on the nose, backed with peat smoke and ripe citrus fruits. This whisky embodies all the classic, fresh style of Arran 10 Year Old with a twist of peat smoke in the tail.

The Whisky Cellar Series 4 Blair Athol 7YO

54.4% ABV, 700ml RRP $125

Dhall & Nash

This whisky has a rich, sweet and fruity aroma with cinnamon and nutmeg spiciness, and a layer of raspberry and damson. On the palate there are notes of orange blossom, sweetened almonds, mānuka honey, yellow sultanas and creamy mocha. Robustly malty notes abound, with strawberry, milk chocolate, and a hint of new leather.

Bruichladdich Port Charlotte 10YO

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Hancocks

The flagship Port Charlotte release is a heavily peated Islay single malt. Matured in American whiskey and French wine casks, it has a barbecue smokiness and is rich and spicy with sweet malty notes.

Jura Seven Wood

42% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Hancocks

The ‘Seven Wood’ in the name of this Scotch refers to the seven different oak cask types used in its creation: first fill ex-bourbon American white oak, Vosges, Bertranges, Jupilles, Allier, Tronçais and Limousin barrels. It has aromas of coffee, ginger and a hint of milk chocolate, with flavours of caramelised peach, chewy liquorice, candied orange and a hint of sea-spray and smoke.

An Cnoc ‘Peatheart’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Made from barley that has been heavily peated, this whisky is initially very smoky on the nose. The peat then gives way to a surge of ripe, fruity aromas of pear, citrus (lime) and apple. The fruity sweetness remains on the palate, joined by sweet vanilla and a floral smokiness that carries through to the finish.

Ardnamurchan ‘Cask Strength AD/09.22’

58.4% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The latest release of Ardnamurchan’s cask strength expression has aromas of orchard fruits and eucalyptus, moving to a savoury, salty character. To taste, rich butterscotch covers wooded tones of cigar boxes, with a hay-like earthiness and briny note. A lingering tangy spice of galangal and soft peat smoke embers round out the finish.

Balblair 12YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks, this Balblair is fresh and fruity, with lemon peel, creamy vanilla and green apple aromas. The palate is succulent and oily, with more citrus (dried orange) and spices, with a honeyed tone throughout. Finishing sweet, it lingers with a leathery oaky note.

Ben Nevis ‘Coire Leis’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Named after the natural rock formation below the peak of Ben Nevis, Coire Leis is a brandnew expression from Ben Nevis distillery. Initial humbugs and barley sugars lead to honeyed vanilla, fresh pears and a biscuity, malty character. A more drying tone of grapefruit marmalade builds, with earthy spice (clove) and a fleeting whiff of smoke. A quintessential west coast style.

Benromach ‘Peat Smoke’ 2012

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Benromach is one of the very few Speyside distilleries to produce heavily-peated whisky, and this expression clocks in at an impressive 42 PPM (Phenol Parts per Million). Matured entirely in first-fill bourbon barrels, a very fragrant nose offers fresh vanilla, tart apples, white chocolate and rich, dense peat smoke. This carries through the palate with toasted marshmallow smores, lemon-lime sherbet and smoldering manuka chips, leaving a mouthcoating sweetness.

Benromach ‘Organic’ 2013/2022

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The first certified organic single malt Scotch whisky since 2006, this is the latest of Benromach’s acclaimed ‘Contrasts: Organic’ series and is fully accredited by the UK Soil Association. It offers an aromatic and sweet fragrant oaky note, rich with vanilla and toffees. Creamy mouthfeel with banana custard, moving to coffee and cocoa flavours.

Bladnoch ‘Vinaya’

46.7% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The latest release from the Bladnoch distillery was created by master distiller Dr. Nick Savage from a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The nose shows the sweet floral and buttery profile of the distillery, with a green apple freshness and touch of chocolate on the palate. A light and uplifting finish.

Edradour ‘Ballechin’ 10YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Ballechin is the name Edradour gives its heavily peated spirit, and this release is their new standard expression bottled after 10 years of maturation. The peat character of this is remarkably Islay-like, with a rich earthy smoke, ginger spice, and amazingly even a hint of coastal, farmyard aromas. A standout example of the non-Islay peated style.

GlenAllachie 12YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This 12-year-old represents the classic style of GlenAllachie. A gentle nose of perfumed, aromatic honey and butterscotch are joined by raisins and mocha. The palate is soft and honeyed, with marzipan and bananas, while the finish is drying, with orange peel and delicate oak lingering.

Glenfarclas 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This is an excellent introduction to a richer single malt Scotch whisky, and one that is beloved by fans of the classic Speyside style. Glenfarclas 12YO has notes of dried fruit, hints of chocolate, toffee and a lovely spiciness on the finish.

Glenfarclas 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Light butterscotch, dried fruit and a big oak and sherry character mingle with hints of malted barley and a touch of dry peat smoke. The finish is long, with Christmas cake spices lingering on the palate.

Bunnahabhain ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 11YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Bottled from sherry casks from the Bunnahabhain distillery, this is not dominantly peaty at all – rich and sweet with sherry cask fruitcake notes, with vanilla, a touch of orange marmalade. Finishing with a rounded milk chocolate note in the finish and the faintest thread of smoke and salt.

Caol Ila ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 13YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Part of independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail’s ‘Discovery’ range, this 13-year-old Caol Ila from the west coast island of Islay falls under their ‘smoky’ profile. It has aromas of sweet vanilla and dry cured meat, while peat smoke undertones are complemented by banana and apricot. Ripe banana, kiwifruit and vibrant hints of fresh citrus lead to a long, sweet and smoky finish.

GlenAllachie ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 14YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A new addition to the ‘Discovery’ range from Gordon & MacPhail, this expression comes entirely from American oak casks from the GlenAllachie distillery in Speyside. This wood profile is typified by creamy custard, fruity notes of apple and banana, and a flavour of blossom honey.

Glenrothes ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 11YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Aromas of raisins and rich toffee lead to a palate of raspberries and blackberries mingled with hints of cinnamon and charred oak. It has a creamy mouthfeel with a lingering finish of butterscotch sauce, milk chocolate and a suggestion of orange.

Benromach ‘Peat Smoke’ 2012 is a heavily-peated whisky that clocks in at an impressive 42 PPM (Phenol Parts per Million).

Ledaig ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

The peated whisky made at the Tobermory distillery is called Ledaig (pronounced ‘le-chig’) and this new whisky comes from the ‘smoky’ selection of the Discovery series by Gordon & MacPhail. There is a rich plume of peat smoke on the nose, becoming tinged with cured smoky meat. The palate is weighty with an oily sweetness; vanilla and stewed fruits followed by lime and a kick of peat smoke again, and chocolate in the finish.

Miltonduff ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 10YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Dry sherry aromas mingle with stewed raisin and roasted hazelnut in this whisky, complemented by a fresh citrus edge. Creamy milk chocolate and orange zest flavours lead to spiced stewed fruits. The finish is fruity with lingering citrus.

Tomatin ‘Gordon & MacPhail’

Discovery 2009

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Filled from casks that were laid down at the Tomatin distillery in 2009, this new ‘Discovery’ release from Gordon & MacPhail sees the exclusive use of American oak ex-bourbon barrels to produce a sweet and smooth single malt. The nose is intense with honey, fragrant pear and a note of spring blossoms. The palate is fruity with melon and white peach, leading to vanilla custard and a herbal finish that builds softly with oak spice.

Isle of Raasay ‘Release R-02.1’

46.4% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Created from a marriage of peated and unpeated whisky, this new release from Raasay continues their use of six different cask types to create an old-fashioned west coast style. A flavour of dark red fruits leads the nose and palate, with honeyed overtones and a subtle, fragrant peat smoke throughout.

Kilchoman ‘Machir Bay’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This Islay whisky has a nose of fresh peat smoke with cooked stone fruit sweetness. On the palate there’s tangy peat smoke and a vanilla pudding sweetness that leads to a seaside, peppery smoke and a long peaty finish.

Kilchoman ‘Sanaig’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Sanaig is bottled predominantly from Oloroso sherry hogshead casks – evident in its rich colour and flavour. The aroma is classic Kilchoman, with soft, cooked fruits, full-bodied peat smoke with citrus notes, and a lingering sweetness.

Lochlea ‘Our Barley’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This is the first core single malt whisky from South Ayrshire distillery Lochlea. It has aromas of pear syrup, fruit bonbons, warm cut grass and marmalade, leading to a palate of golden syrup, pepper, rye bread, macadamia nuts and cream soda. A long finish with a lasting orange beeswax note.

Loch Lomond 12YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Loch Lomond’s 12-year-old single malt is created from a combination of casks (ex-American oak, refill and charred) bringing together toasty oak notes to complement the distillery’s fruity character of pear and orange. There is a layered sweetness of vanilla and just a hint of peat and smoke.

Loch Lomond ‘Smoke & Spice

Inchmoan’ 12YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Using a combination of peated whisky made in Loch Lomond’s unique combination of straightneck and swan-neck stills, this Highland Single Malt has a soft, fruity and sweet character woven with a gentle peatiness; a warming and mild smoke similar to that of an old fireplace or bonfire.

Old Pulteney ‘Huddart’

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Finished in ex-peated casks after an initial maturation in ex-bourbon barrels, this expression from Old Pulteney wafts fragrant mellow wood smoke with honey and oily leather, developing into crisp green apple, creamy vanilla and a hint of burnt toffee. Freshly ground spices and vanilla on the palate balance the subtle notes of smoke and peat fire. Rich salted caramel on the finish.

Port Askaig 100 Proof

57.1% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Bottled from a selection of casks both young and old from an undisclosed distillery on Islay, the Port Askaig series personifies the Islay style: dense smoke, sea spray and a hint of lemon and liquorice. The peat smoke lingers on the palate with salted caramel, herbal notes and a slow drying finish.

Scarabus Batch Strength by Hunter Laing

57% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This higher strength expression of the Scarabus is full of the same sweet peat smoke as the standard release featured above, but with extra texture and body. Aromas of orchard fruit are joined by a developing peat smoke, while flavours of creamy toffee and vanilla balance the peppery spiciness. A rich finish of honeycomb and a lasting ashy smoke.

Tamdhu 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Tamdhu Distillery, in the heart of Speyside, produces a classic rich, old-fashioned, rounded style. The distillery fills exclusively ex-sherry casks for the Tamdhu single malt. This 12YO expression is full of dried fruit, sweet spiciness, and confectionery notes like old-fashioned boiled sweets.

Wolfburn ‘Langskip’

58% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

“Langskip” is a Norse word for “longship”. This is the first high-strength whisky from Wolfburn, offering aromatic notes of dried apple, raisins and dates and rich fruit cake. The palate has maple syrup, dark chocolate and fruit and nut mix. A fading vanilla-sweet finish.

RRP $130 - $199.99

Glen Moray 15YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $132.99

Thirsty Camel

This whisky marries sherry and American oak to create a complex whisky with a hint of spice and delicate smoke over flavours of rich dried fruits and dark chocolate.

Glenfiddich 15YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $134.99

Federal Merchants

Aged in European oak sherry casks and new oak casks, this whisky is mellowed in Glenfiddich’s Solera Vat, a large oak tun inspired by the sherry bodegas of Spain and Portugal, which has been kept half full of whiskies since 1998. Aromas of heather honey, vanilla fudge and rich dark fruit lead to full-bodied flavours of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon, ginger and a lingering sweetness

Glenfiddich Project XX

47% ABV, 700ml RRP $134.99

Federal Merchants

This single malt expression was created as a collaboration with 20 (hence the ‘XX’) whisky industry experts, adding layers of complexity to classic Glenfiddich whisky. The nose has classic fruitiness with hints of apple blossom, ripe pear, rich vanilla oak, golden sugar and a hint of liquorice. The taste is deep and mellow with a candy floss sweetness complemented by notes of toasted almond, cinnamon and a hint of crisp tannin. The long finish has a sweet oakiness.

Tomatin 14YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $134.99

Premium Liquor Co.

The 14-year-old expression is soft, smooth and sweet thanks to time spent in tawny port casks that previously held port for around 50 years. Aromas of red berries, sweet honey and rich toffee develop into light fruits and nuts on the palate and a lingering finish of fruit salad.

The Macallan Double Cask 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $139

Hancocks

This whisky marries the classic Macallan style with the sweetness of American oak. It has aromas of creamy butterscotch with a hint of toffee apple, candied orange, vanilla custard and oak. Honey in the mouth with wood spices and citrus, balanced with raisins and caramel. Oak lingers on the finish.

Cask Orkney 15YO Single Malt

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $139.99

Glengarry

This whisky was created to celebrate the Neolithic folklore of Orkney. Aromas of clover honey, Parma violet and ripe peach lead to flavours of grilled plum, old-fashioned barley sugar, noble hops and caraway.

Sea Shepherd Islay Single Malt

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $139.99

Glengarry

This whisky was created in cooperation with marine conservation organisation Sea Shepherd and each bottle contributes to supporting its work. Aromas of sea salt with hints of citrus continue on the palate alongside soft smoke.

Woven Whisky Experience No.13 Catalyst

47.1% ABV, 500ml RRP $139.99

Glengarry

A complex offering from the Woven team, with rich peat and smoked meat aromas over a layered palate of cereal and smoke.

Kingsbarns Distillery Reserve 2020

59.8% ABV, 700ml RRP $140

Glengarry

This limited release cask strength single malt has been distilled using Fife barley and matured in shaved, toasted and re-charred red wine barriques from Portugal. The resulting whisky has flavours of ginger and nutmeg with citrus orange zest.

Auchentoshan Three Wood

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $142.99

Beam Suntory

Three different cask types (American bourbon, Spanish Oloroso sherry, and Pedro Ximénez sherry) give this whisky a rich, complex character with flavours of toffee, blackcurrant, brown sugar, orange, plum and raisin.

Aberlour 14YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $145.99

Pernod Ricard

An individual batch release featuring sherry and American oak cask ageing. It has aromas of vanilla and ripe cherry and a rounded palate of soft caramel, blackcurrant, blackberry jam and subtle spice.

Aberlour A’bunadh

59.9% ABV, 700ml RRP $145.99

Pernod Ricard

“A’bunadh” means “the original” in Gaelic and this cask-strength whisky was made in homage to Aberlour’s founder, James Fleming. It’s a robust and deeply intense sherried whisky with rich and creamy complex flavours of fruit cake, dark bitter chocolate and spices.

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Federal Merchants

This whisky get its distinctive character from ageing in American oak ex-bourbon barrels and hogsheads, and then in Spanish oak ex-Oloroso sherry casks before finishing in oak tuns. It has aromas of sweet fruit, Oloroso sherry, honey and vanilla. Smooth and mellow on the palate with nutty sweetness, cinnamon spice, a delicate layer of sherry and a long finish.

Bowmore 15YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Beam Suntory

This Scotch is matured first in bourbon barrels then spends its final three years in Oloroso sherry casks to create its deep colour and rich raisin character. Aromas of dark chocolate, raisin and smoke that persist on the palate along cedar wood and rich treacle toffee.

The Dalmore 12YO Sherry Cask

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Hancocks

Aromas of caramelised orange, ginger and sultanas laced with honey open this whisky, leading to flavours of dark chocolate and crushed almonds with a dusting of cinnamon. Sweet mango, panna cotta and lemon sponge cake on the finish.

Laphroaig 10YO Cask Strength

56.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Beam Suntory

A bracing, full-bodied cask strength whisky with aromas of smoke, vanilla, pipe tobacco and leather. Toffee, fudge and cinnamon emerge on the palate; adding a couple drops of water draws out additional peat smoke and notes of sea salt.

The Glenlivet 18YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $159.99

Pernod Ricard

This whisky was aged in first and second fill American oak and ex-sherry casks. It has aromas of rich fruit and toffee, with sweet citrus and winter spice on the palate.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $159.99

Beam Suntory

Double maturation in two American oak casks give this whisky an intense flavour. Stillmaturing whisky from Laphroaig’s standard ex-bourbon barrels is transferred to quarter casks, increasing contact with the oak and softening Laphroaig’s distinctive peatiness. It has aromas of toffee and caramel with a dryness from the wood oil. A long finish with sweetness and smoke.

The Macallan Sherry Cask 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $159.99

Hancocks

This release is part of the Sherry Oak range from The Macallan, which features a series of single malt whiskies matured in exceptional sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez. The 12YO expression delivers rich wood spice and dried fruits.

The GlenDronach Revival 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $164.99

Hancocks

A luxuriously sherried Highland single malt Scotch whisky with sumptuous notes of dark fruit, rich chocolate and mānuka honey with a lingering finish.

Jura 18YO

44% ABV, 700ml RRP $169.99

Hancocks

Eighteen years in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels is followed by finishing in premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux barrels to create a whisky full of rich black forest fruit, toffee, cocoa and coffee characters.

Bowmore 18YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $174.99

Beam Suntory

Ageing in oak gives this single malt Scotch aromas of creamy caramel toffee, ripe fruit and smoke. It’s complex in the mouth with soft fruit and chocolate, balanced with a light smokiness and a lingering finish.

Highland Park 15YO

44% ABV, 700ml RRP $180

Hancocks

The heavily embossed ceramic bottle was inspired by the ancient earthenware vessels in which whisky was stored centuries ago. This 15-year-old single malt is rich with sweet spices and crème brulee, balanced with a tropical zest.

The heavily embossed ceramic bottle of Highland Park 15YO was inspired by the ancient earthenware vessels in which whisky was stored centuries ago.

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $184.99

Federal Merchants

Matured in traditional oak whisky casks for 14 years, this whisky is finished in casks that previously held Caribbean rum. This gives it the traditional smooth, honeyed character of The Balvenie, married with notes of toffee and a hint of fruit, with a warm, lingering finish.

Woven Whisky Experience 14

Kaleidoscopic

51.7% ABV, 500ml RRP $184.99

Glengarry

Its makers describe this blend as somewhere between “complex” and “exploratory”. Flavours of fruit, cereal and honey with a spiced pepper character.

Glenfiddich 18YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $189.99

Federal Merchants

Spanish Oloroso wood and American oak are used to mature this rich, fruity whisky. Aromas of ripe orchard fruit, baked apple and robust oak, with dried fruit, candy peel and dates on the palate, overlaid with elegant oak.

Tomatin 18YO

46% ABV, RRP $199.99

Premium Liquor Co.

Matured in traditional oak casks and first fill Oloroso sherry butts, there are honey and soft oak flavours that develop into a hint of dark chocolate with a citrus bite before a sustained sweet and slightly dry finish. Tomatin 18YO was awarded Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for the second year in a row.

Balblair 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Matured in ex-bourbon casks and then finished in rich Spanish sherry casks, the Balblair 15-year-old is distinctly spiced and fruity, with notes of prunes, tropical fruit and dark chocolate. Velvety in texture with spices and mellow vanilla, there is an edge of citrus and lemon peel.

Benromach 15YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This is the latest expression from Speyside’s smallest distillery and its oldest release since re-opening in 1998. It’s a rich and complex whisky with notes of creamy vanilla custard, fruitcake and honey, with touches of cocoa, warming spice and a thread of smoke that lingers in the finish.

GlenAllachie 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This whisky has a deeply fruity and spicy aroma that carries on to the palate, developing into a lighter note of orange and banana, then fading to bittersweet dark chocolate.

Glenfarclas 17YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This expression from Glenfarclas has developed a soft and refined flavour of sherry-cask oak (dried dark fruits, soft spices) and increased depth and complexity of flavour. Hints of butterscotch and jaffa-cake also come through, with a hint of peat smoke.

Glen Scotia 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This release from Glen Scotia is fully matured in specially selected American oak barrels in their Campbeltown warehouses for 15 years before bottling. Its delicate apricot and vanilla aromas develop towards a zesty fruit salad and subtle coastal note. On the palate there are hints of ginger and spice, complemented by rich vanilla and fruit notes.

Glen Scotia ‘Victoriana’

54.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A fruity whisky with citrus hints and plenty of woody spice. Finishing in charred oak casks gives it a rich caramel vanilla and cocoa characteristic.

Tamdhu 15YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Matured exclusively in ex-sherry casks for 15 years, this expression from Tamdhu has a rich and full flavour with notes of apple pastries, spiced currants and orange zest sitting alongside crème caramel and dried fruit. The palate is nutty and malty with creamy vanilla and more woody fruit and spice.

Tamdhu Batch Strength Batch No.6

56.8% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Fully matured in ex-Oloroso sherry casks, this release from Tamdhu has fresh and aromatic spices from the oak on the nose, with roasted nuts and creamy vanilla. To taste, the palate is dense with rich fruit (sultana loaf, Christmas mix) and berries, with orange and lemon developing. The texture is full and decadent, leaving behind a trail of fig, date and more spices.

RRP $200 - $299.99

Arran 18YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $210

Tickety-Boo

Made from a mix of aged ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, this 18-year-old expression is the oldest in Arran Distillery’s core range of single malts. It has aromas of orchard fruit with syrup, toasted oak, vanilla and light cinnamon. The palate is rounded and sweet with chocolate, ginger, caramelised brown sugar and vanilla.

Tomatin 18YO won Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for the second year in a row.

The Dalmore 15YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $219.99

Hancocks

The team at The Dalmore describe this whisky as “the epitome of our house style”. Aged for 15 years, it’s finished in different styles of sherry casks including Apostoles, Amoroso and Matusalem Oloroso. It has complex flavours of mandarin, vanilla, ginger and crushed apples with caramelised orange and dark chocolate on the finish.

Laphroaig Lore

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $224.99

Beam Suntory

This Scotch is named for the “lore” or traditions and knowledge held by generations of distillers and blenders at Laphroaig and is described as the richest expression of the distillery’s famed peated whisky. It’s a complex blend of small-batch Scotch whisky, matured in five cask types, aged between 7-21 years. Rich and smoky, with notes of ash, bitter chocolate and ocean air and a long, sweet finish with a hint of spice.

Glen Moray 18YO

47.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $236.99

Thirsty Camel

Aromas of toasted oak with toffee and caramelised autumn fruits. Baked spiced apple and vanilla smoked raisins on the palate. Rich and smooth with an elegant finish.

Glen Grant 18YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $239.99

Thirsty Camel

A rich and floral aroma with oaky overtones and hints of baking spices. In the mouth there is malty caramel, delicate dried raisins and vanilla leading to a long, sweet finish with hints of nuts and spice.

The Macallan Classic Cut 2022

52.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $249.99

Hancocks

The Macallan Classic Cut is a series of higher strength single malts designed to deliver a different flavour experience each year. Matured in a unique combination of casks with two distinctive wood types, this release exudes flavours of both European and American oak, married together. A fresh fruit medley on the nose with light spice and almonds leads to a palate of grapefruit, caramel, a wisp of chocolate, lemon sponge, nuts, oak and light spice. The finish is sweet and creamy with warming spice.

The GlenDronach 21YO Parliament

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $257.92

Hancocks

Matured in a combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for a minimum of 21 years, the ‘Parliament’ is named after the colony, or ‘parliament’, of rooks that have been nesting in the trees that overlook the GlenDronach distillery for almost 200 years. A richly complex whisky with aromas of ripe autumn fruits and flavours of fine Oloroso sherry, bitter chocolate and plum pudding with notes of cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. Fullbodied with smooth tannins.

Highland Park 18YO Viking Pride

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $260

Hancocks

This whisky is matured in a high proportion of first-fill sherry seasoned European and American oak casks. It has flavours of ripe cherries, bittersweet cocoa, honeycomb and candied orange peel with a touch of sea spray and aromatic peat smoke.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $279.99

Lion

This is the pinnacle of the Johnnie Walker Colour range. Its initial flavours include hazelnut, honey, sherry and orange, followed by ginger, sandalwood and dark chocolate. The rich honey sweetness is accompanied by hints of pepper and dried fruit, before a long, lingering finish of soft smoke.

Arran 21YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $285

Tickety-Boo

This 21YO release from Arran Distillery has joined the brand’s core range and is one of its oldest expressions of Arran single malt to date. It has aromas of sweet spice and hazelnut, with ginger and dark chocolate on the palate. The finish is balanced with bitter orange, sweet citrus and dark chocolate.

The Whisky Cellar Series 4 Cambus Single Grain 33YO

42.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $295

Dhall & Nash

The Whisky Cellar is an Edinburgh-based independent Scotch whisky bottler, selecting casks from its private stock at the peak of their character. This complex and distinctive whisky is described as having aromas of wood polish, lemon-flavoured chewy caramel, coconut, damp wood, and white and yellow fruits. The palate is initially sweet with soft lemony notes, banana foam sweets, sponge cake with mango coulis, beeswax, vanilla and honey among others.

Benromach 21YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This new addition to Benromach’s core range delivers sweet sherry aromas with notes of citrus and ginger and the signature hint of smoke. Sweet to taste, with spicy notes of cracked black pepper leading to Seville oranges, raspberry and baked apples, finishing with a soft smokiness.

Glenfarclas 25YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This whisky has hints of sherry, honey, and dark roasted coffee beans along with a distinct oaky spice and nuttiness. The finish is longlasting with a gentle touch of peat smoke in the background.

Glengoyne 18YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A full-bodied, round and rich whisky with aromas of red apple and ripe melon, that drift into hot porridge topped with brown sugar. On the palate, macerated fruits, marzipan and walnuts lead into warm spices, dry cocoa and lingering Seville marmalade.

Glengoyne ‘Cask Strength’

Batch #0008

59.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A big, bold whisky aged in a combination of first fill sherry casks, refill casks and some firstfill bourbon casks. It has aromas of apple pie, vanilla, nutmeg and white chocolate. At almost 60% it has a thick mouthfeel that coats the palate with buttery flavours of toffee popcorn, sweet banana and soft oak. A lasting finish of summer fruits and malt biscuits.

Loch Lomond 21YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Loch Lomond’s new 21YO offers a malty, fruity and lightly smoky Highland style, chosen from a mixture of casks married together for a final maturation. A great all-rounder whisky, with sweet fudge, fruits and cinnamon spice, fading away to oak and mild peat smoke in the finish.

RRP $300 and above

Glenfiddich 21YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $420

Federal Merchants

A traditional Speyside whisky matured for 21 years onsite at the Glenfiddich distillery and then finished in Caribbean rum casks, selected by Malt Master Brian Kinsman. These casks add notes of ginger, fig, lime, banana and a vibrant spicy toffee warmth to the signature Glenfiddich style.

Glenfiddich Grand Cru 23YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $550

Federal Merchants

This rich and intense whisky is matured for 23 years in American and European oak and finished in French cuvé e casks – the only Glenfiddich Single Malt to undergo this finishing. Aromas of apple blossom, freshly baked bread and candied lemon lead to layered flavours of rich vanilla oak, sweet brioche, sandalwood, pear sorbet and white grape. The finish is long, opulent and sweet.

The Balvenie PortWood 21YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $579

Federal Merchants

First released in 1996, this award-winning whisky is considered one of the finest creations by The Balvenie Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE. It is a combination of rare Balvenie transferred to port casks, which have held fine port wines. The perfumed aroma of fruity and ripe raisin notes is backed by a nutty dryness. The refined palate is creamy and silky with fruit, honey and spice notes leading to a long, gentle finish.

Benriach The Twenty Five

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $620

Hancocks

A richly sumptuous single malt made from unpeated and peated spirit and four caskmatured for at least 25 years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels, virgin oak casks and Madeira Island wine casks. It has layers of baked fruit, honey malt and toasted oak spice with a long, rich, caramelised smoke finish.

Arran 25YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $630

Tickety-Boo

This is the oldest core range statement from Arran Distillery and has been matured in ex-sherry and bourbon casks. It has aromas of rich oak, nutmeg note, baked ripe figs, sultanas and black cherries. On the palate there is fruit cake with toasted almonds and cinnamon, zesty orange and mandarin, a honeyed sweetness and an interesting white pepper note. The finish is creamy and spicy with dark chocolate, walnuts and dark fruit.

Benriach The Thirty

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $1,120

Hancocks

This special single malt has been crafted from peated spirit and four cask-matured for at least 30 years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels, virgin oak casks and port casks from the Douro Valley. It has layers of dark fruits, rich walnut and velvety oak spice with a long, complex, smoked honey finish.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 74.

Special new release from Pōkeno Whisky

CRAFT DISTILLERY Pōkeno Whisky has just released an exclusive Single Cask Virgin Finish Single Malt whisky for the New Zealand market. After a full maturation in a first-fill bourbon barrel, the single malt is re-racked into a virgin cask built to the distillery’s specifications using 36 months air dried American Oak. Pōkeno Whisky’s Matt Johns says it’s an exceptional addition to the range. “The light toast and light char have enhanced our classic citrus and vanilla with incredible depth and complexity, adding notes of shortbread, toasted caramel and cocoa.” Limited release of 400 bottles. RRP $199.

Pōkeno Whisky

SHOWCASE

Winners at 2023 NZ Spirits Awards

MEDAL WINNERS in the 2023 New Zealand Spirits Awards were announced in May with Trophy winners to be announced in early June, just after Drinksbiz went to print. (Trophy results will be at drinksbiz.co.nz.) Organisers say that this year’s Awards attracted a record number of entries: 426 entries from 24 countries – 281 of those entries being products from New Zealand. Find full results online at spiritsawardsnz.nz

Bedford Soda & Liquor rings in 10 years

PONSONBY’S BEDFORD Soda & Liquor is marking 10 years on the iconic strip with a fresh new menu created by drinks expert and new Creative Director and shareholder Jason Clark. Clark joins owners Jeremy Wells, Matt Nicholls and Sam Ansly, who launched the bar in 2013 after being inspired by the dive bars in the back streets of New York’s Brooklyn. Now back in New Zealand after eight years working overseas as a luxury spirits brand ambassador, Clark says he’s excited at the opportunity to take the beverage menu to new heights. “It’s been a fun process to share new ideas with the team,” he says. “We’ve reinvented our original recipes, kept a selection of favourites and added two new sections to the menu, including offering our guests more healthconscious and alcohol-free options.” bedfordsodaliquor.co.nz

Triple success for KJ & Co at 2023 NZ Spirits Awards

CHRISTCHURCH CRAFT distillery KJ & Co. is celebrating a triple medal win at the 2023 New Zealand Spirits Awards – Gold for its Plunders Original Caribbean Rum (RRP $69.99) and Silver for its Last Minute Gin and Alpine Vodka (both RRP $49.99).

A Last Minute success

It was just nine months ago that small artisan distillery KJ & Co developed and released Last Minute Gin, taking a punt on producing a high quality yet accessible New Zealand gin that went from an idea to full market launch in just four weeks!

Brandhouse CEO Jason Dellaca says that despite the crowded gin category, Last Minute Gin quickly made a splash. “Sales of Last Minute Gin have gone from strength to strength, month on month, and it is currently one of the fastest-growing New Zealand gin brands in the country. At KJ & Co we pride ourselves on developing and producing products that offer extremely good value for money. I think this has been an important factor in our success in these tough economic times.”

Gold for Plunders Original

Following the success of Last Minute Gin, the KJ & Co team set their sights on rum, sourcing and importing a premium aged base rum from the depths of Panama.

“There is a growing market for premium rum globally and Plunders Original Rum was created with this in mind,” says Dellaca. “Our master blender in Christchurch spent considerable time and effort in perfecting the recipe and his determination and skill has been recognised with a Gold medal, one of only four rums to achieve gold.”

KJ & Co’s Alpine Vodka followed – an ultra-smooth premium vodka recognised with a Silver medal at the New Zealand Spirits Awards.

For wholesale inquiries contact Brandhouse on 0508 468 688 or geoff @brandhouse.co.nz

Jack Daniel’s distiller bonds with Kiwi fans

THE MAN behind iconic whisky brand Jack Daniel’s visited Auckland in late May to introduce new premium whiskey Jack Daniel’s Bonded and treated fans, industry and media to a behind-the-scenes glimpse of life at the Tennessee distillery.

Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Chris Fletcher featured at a special event – Tales of Lynchburg – hosted by Jack Daniel’s New Zealand distributor Hancocks. Guests were treated to four Jack Daniel’s-inspired

cocktails from Kismet, Panacea, Clipper, and The Last Word before a three-course meal by chef Des Harris paired with Jack Daniel’s whiskeys.

Fletcher regaled guests with tales of his childhood spent playing at the Jack Daniel’s distillery when his grandfather was Master Distiller, and then working there as a tour guide while studying chemistry at university. After time in R&D for parent company Brown Forman,

Chris Fletcher says he’s particularly proud of the new Jack Daniel’s Bonded release (which adheres to the strict regulations of the Bottled in Bond Act 1897) as it’s a nod to the distillery’s authentic whiskey-making heritage with a touch of innovation and craftsmanship.

Hancocks

The Drammys 2023 – whiskies from around the world

AS PRINCIPAL sponsor of the New Zealand Whisk(e)y Awards, known as ‘The Drammys’, Super Liquor is excited to announce the winning whiskies in the sixth year of the hotly contested competition.

The Drammys were created to showcase the best whiskies from around the world that are available in the New Zealand market –this includes a wide range of international whiskies but also spirit from local distilleries too – with the goal of driving awareness for the category.

The Drammys 2023 kicked off with an impressive submission list of 150 whiskies globally from Scotland, Japan, America, Canada, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand.

The judging took place in April, with an experienced panel of distillers and brand ambassadors assessing each entry. With a vast range of whiskies entered, they were split into categories based on their characteristics.

The Awards night took place in May and the high calibre of the entries was evident in the results, with a total of 16 Gold medals, 27 Silver medals and 52 Bronze medals awarded. The title of Best in Show at The Drammys 2023 went to Highland Park 18 Year Old.

To see the full list of winners visit online at thedrammys.co.nz/2023-winners

Fletcher worked as assistant master distiller for six years before taking on the Master Distiller role in October 2020.

Guests at Tales of Lynchburg enjoyed a three-course menu matched with Jack Daniel's whiskeys.

Jack Daniel's Master Distiller Chris Fletcher (centre) chats to Duncan Heyde and Jay Reeve from The Rock.

Rifters scoops Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition

CENTRAL OTAGO builders Hamish Bourke and Stuart Clark of Arrowtown distillery Rifters have won Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for Rifters Quartz gin.

They entered their Rifters Original Dry and Quartz gins in the prestigious competition and have come away with a Silver and a Gold respectively. The pair founded the distillery in 2019 after working together on a building job and discovering a shared love of gin.

Hamish Bourke says it’s a massive achievement for the boutique distillery team. “To be able to put gins made down in Arrowtown onto the world stage and get a gold medal, stacking up against some of the best gins in the world, is pretty awesome for us.”

Boom time for Rifters

The gold for Rifters Quartz follows awards won around the world in the past month, including three bronzes and a silver at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in London for their Blossomed, Original Dry, Quartz, and Pinot Noir gins.

The Rifters brand has been building over the past two years and is now distributed across New Zealand and is available in duty-free too.

Sustainable offer for on-premise

Recently, Rifters began distributing an in-house designed ‘demijohn’ system to bars around New Zealand. The 5L container is used instead of single bottles to eliminate unnecessary waste and is part of Rifters’ wider sustainability efforts.

“Every demijohn used in a bar saves 7.1 bottles from going to landfill,” says Bourke. “Since the end of last year, Rifters has already saved around 2,500 bottles from ending up as waste.”

The Rifters team is still distilling from their original shed, but with the recent awards and a new still on the way Hamish Bourke says they are looking forward to growing the operation further. “The win has built a really good foundation for us to grow into the future, and beyond.”

riftersgin.com

Rifters is distributed by Federal Merchants & Co.

Hendrick’s joins the National Tweed Ride

NEARLY 200 “Tweedists” came together in Greytown over Easter Weekend as Hendrick’s Gin proudly partnered with Blackwell & Sons to present Aotearoa’s third National Tweed Ride in the Wairarapa town. The National Tweed ride first hit Greytown in 2021, started by iconic Greytown duo Adam and Millie Blackwell. After sitting down over a few gin Martinis together, Hendrick’s Gin decided to join the party as the perfect complement to the day. After the picturesque ride around Greytown, the group enjoyed a knees-up garden party where Andrew Down, William Grant & Sons NZ Brand Ambassador, served up his Hendrick’s Gin cocktail creations and the iconic ‘Tini Martini’ to the crowd.

Federal Merchants

Tap in to Tapped Cocktails

A NEW range of Tapped Cocktails created by Pour Man Beverage Co. and using premium products from the TicketyBoo spirits portfolio is launching into venues across New Zealand, offering a fast, consistent and cost-effective solution for cocktails.

New vermouths from Hastings Distillers

TWO NEW certified organic dry vermouths are on the menu at Hastings Distillers: Aubyn Orange Dry and Aubyn Blanc Extra Dry. The new releases follow the distillery’s popular Rubis red vermouth, launched in 2021 and a Double Gold winner at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards. The two Aubyn vermouths are made with organic Chardonnay grapes and a blend of 21 botanicals chosen for each expression. Ideal for martinis, Hastings Distillers co-founders Kate Galloway and Dabid Ramonteu also suggest serving the Orange over ice with a splash of soda as an aperitif, or chilling the Blanc to serve neat for sipping with a meal.

Aubyn Orange Dry – (17% ABV, 750ml) RRP $65

Aubyn Blanc Extra Dry – (17% ABV, 750ml) RRP $75

Hastings Distillers

As bars face rising costs of goods and increasing labour and skills shortages, Tapped Cocktails level the playing field by removing all the prep time on highvolume cocktails while guaranteeing high quality and consistent product – no matter who is pouring it.

“Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to be able to pour 10 Espresso Martinis every minute and maximise their profits?” says Jamie Dickens of Tickety-Boo. “It’s

a consumer favourite, but a bartender’s worst nightmare. Espresso Martinis, in particular, take time to build, shake and serve. And you know when one person orders one, everyone wants one.”

Tickety-Boo Director Kevin Rowe says they have been working with Brandon Walker and Jess Birch from Pour Man Beverage Co. over the last few years, using the cocktail creation skills they have honed after many years in hospitality. He says they’re excited to be partnering on the new offering. “The industry has, for some time, tried to bring high quality pre-batched cocktails to the market as a solution to many issues facing hospitality. Until now, no-one has really managed to tick all the boxes

and produce a consistent premium drink experience for the consumer using only premium products.”

Made in collaboration with Pour Man Beverage Co, the new range uses Tickety-Boo’s premium spirits portfolio for the base spirits. The core offering of 20L Tapped Cocktails on launch are:

• Stoli Espresso Martini (Nitro)

• Stoli Porn Star Martini (Nitro)

• Stoli Yuzu Lemon Drop (CO2)

• Arette Coconut Margarita (Nitro)

• Ron Santisima Mojito (CO2)

• Starward Whisky Bee’s Knees (Nitro)

• Cocchi Yuzu Americano (CO2)

Tapped Cocktails use 20L kegs that are easy to install and use normal beer keg connections. Initial and ongoing assistance is available from the Tickety-Boo Sales Team and Pour Man Beverage Co.

Talk to your Tickety-Boo Sales Manager for more information on how to get started or email sales@ticketyboo.co.nz

Tapped Cocktails level the playing field by removing all the prep time on high-volume premium cocktails.

100 PROOF

Anticipation builds for Lagg Distillery’s single malts

TICKETY-BOO WILL have its next shipment of whisky from Lagg Distillery available from September, following the sell-out success in New Zealand earlier this year.

Lagg Distillery opened in 2019 and and is devoted purely to peated Single Malt whiskies. It is the second distillery on the Isle of Arran, off the south west coast of Scotland. It is a sibling to the Lochranza Distillery, where the flagship Arran Single Malts are distilled, and whose whisky Tickety-Boo also distributes.

Tickety-Boo will have Lagg’s flagship single malt, Kilmory Edition (its first core range expression and a 100% first-fill bourbon barrel matured whisky) and the second release, Corriecravie Edition. The spirit for this is matured initially in bourbon barrels before being finished for six months in Oloroso sherry hogsheads sourced directly from producer Miguel Martin in Jerez.

Tickety-Boo

More accolades for Tomatin

AWARD-WINNING HIGHLAND distillery, Tomatin, has added another ten accolades to its growing collection at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC).

Judges at the SFWSC 2023 awarded Tomatin

Double Gold for its 18YO Single Malt (for the second year in a row), Gold for its 12YO Single Malt and Legacy Single Malt, and Silver for its 14YO.

The judges also awarded Double Gold to Cù Bòcan Signature – a single malt brand distilled at the Tomatin distillery in limited batches every winter, focusing on unusual cask maturations.

Both Tomatin and Cù Bòcan whiskies are distributed exclusively in New Zealand by The Premium Liquor Co. Premium Liquor Co.

Clear wins for Clarity Distilling

ONE OF New Zealand’s newest craft distilleries has made a splash with the country’s only Double Gold medal win at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Clarity Distillery Company co-founders

George White and Stephanie Downer launched their first line of spirits from their Tauranga distillery in March. The Clarity Dry Gin was awarded Double Gold at the San Francisco competition in April, much to the pair’s delight.

Following the international win, the distillery’s Clarity 2023 Gin was also announced as a Gold medal winner at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards.

claritydc.co.nz

Golden haul for Starward at 2023 SFWSC

AUSTRALIAN DISTILLERY Starward has won 12 Double Gold and 10 Gold medals at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The wins come just a year after winning ‘Most Awarded Distillery of the Year’ at the same event –the first and only Australian distillery to do so. A SFWSC medal recognises exceptional quality and craftsmanship with Double Gold medals only awarded to entries that receive a Gold medal rating by all members of the judging panel in a blind tasting.

Starward was awarded Double Golds for some of its most popular whiskies including Nova and Vitalis, which are both available in New Zealand. Double Gold Medal

Starward Octave Barrels Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Tawny #2 Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Vitalis Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Hungarian Oak Single Malt Whisky

Starward Left-Field Single Malt Whisky

Starward Nova Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Single Barrel 7598 Single Malt Whisky

Starward Sticky Toffee Apple Single Malt Whisky

Starward Single Barrel 3278 Single Malt Whisky

Starward TWC Cognac Cask Single Malt Whisky

Starward Single Barrel 8193 Single Malt Whisky

Starward Single Barrel 684 Single Malt Whisky

Gold Medal

Starward Ginger Beer Cask #7 Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Two-Fold Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward Solera Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward HER Honeycomb Whisky

Starward Single Barrel 2393 Single Malt Whisky

Starward Munich Malt Single Malt Whisky

Starward Chardonnay Cask Single Malt Whisky

Starward Peated Finish Single Malt Whisky (available in NZ)

Starward TWC Tawny, Single Malt Whisky

Starward The Corio Distillery Casks Single Malt Whisky (not yet released)

Tickety-Boo

KRISTOFFER PAULSEN

LAND ON THE EXTRAORDINARY

The Apple Press hello@theapplepress.co.nz theapplepress.co.nz

Astrolabe Wines 03 577 6794 astrolabewines.co.nz

Asahi Beverages NZ 09 298 3000 asahibeverages.co.nz

Bach Brewing 09 390 0149 bachbrewing.co.nz

Beam Suntory 0800 69 23 37 beamsuntory.com

Beverage Brothers 03 390 1377 beveragebrothers.co.nz

Big Sky Wines 027 424 8974 bigskywines.co.nz

The Boneline 03 314 8699 theboneline.co.nz

Brandhouse 0508 468 688 brandhouse.co.nz

Chard Farm 03 441 8452 chardfarm.co.nz

Clearview Estate 06 875 0150 clearviewestate.co.nz

DB Breweries 0800 746 432 db.co.nz

Dhall & Nash 0800 369 463 dnfinewine.com

Emerson’s 03 477 1812 emersons.co.nz

Distributors

Emporium Brewing 03 319 5897 emporiumbrewing.co.nz

EuroVintage 0800 388 766 eurovintage.co.nz

Federal Merchants 0800 846 824 federalmerchants.co.nz

Felton Road 03 445 0885 feltonroad.com

Forrest Wines 03 572 9084 forrest.co.nz

Frucor Suntory 0800 437 8267 frucorsuntory.com

Giesen Group 03 344 6270 giesen.co.nz

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Great Little Vineyards 09 529 0935 greatlittlevineyards.com

Grey Beard Trading 021 712 784 greybeardtrading@gmail.com

Hancocks 0800 699 463 hancocks.co.nz

Hastings Distillers 06 870 3991 hastingsdistillers.com

Huntress huntress@huntress.co.nz huntresswines.co.nz

Invivo Wines 0800 468 486 invivowines.com

Johner Estate 06 370 8217 johner-estate.com

Kono 04 546 8648 kono.co.nz

Lion 0800 107 272 lionco.com

Maison Vauron 09 529 0157 mvauron.co.nz

Māori Point Wines 03 428 8842 maoripoint.co.nz

Marisco 09 522 9684 marisco.co.nz

McLeod’s Brewery 021 382 342 mcleodsbrewery.co.nz

Mineral orders@mineralwine.co.nz mineral.co.nz

Mission Estate 06 845 9350 missionestate.co.nz

Mylk Made hello@mylkmade.co.nz mylkmade.co.nz

Negociants 0800 634 624 negociantsnz.com

Pacific Coast Beverages 021 0393 155 pacificcoastbeverages.co.nz

Pernod Ricard 0800 655 550 pernod-ricard-nz.com

Pōkeno Whisky Co. contact@pokenowhisky.co.nz pokenowhisky.com

The Premium Liquor Co. 09 975 7432 premiumliquor.co.nz

Procure procurewine.co.nz

Q Wine 021 349 400 qwine.co.nz

Red+White Cellar 09 376 0760 redwhitecellar.co.nz

Red Bull NZ customerservice.nz@redbull.com redbull.com

Sanz Global 09 414 7773 sanzglobal.co.nz

Sprig + Fern 03 544 8675 sprigandfern.co.nz

Te Kano Estate 03 928 6951 tekanoestate.com

Thirsty Camel info@thirstycamel.co.nz thirstycamel.co.nz

Tickety-Boo Liquor 09 377 7597 tickety-boo.co.nz

Villa Maria 0800 505 656 villamaria.co.nz

Vintners NZ 0800 687 9463 vintners.co.nz

Whisky Galore 03 377 6824 whiskytrade.co.nz

BRING ON THE NIGHT

LET GO AND FEEL