Drinksbiz August September 2023

LAND ON THE EXTRAORDINARY

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

Light at the end of the tunnel

WAS I the only one who raised a glass when we passed the shortest day in June? This has been a rough old year for many, in so many different ways, and it somehow felt appropriate to mark the turning point in the celestial calendar and look ahead to the welcome approach of longer days, the arrival of spring and busier times in hospitality.

Of course, we still have a general election ahead of us, and the uncertainty

that these always generate has been felt far and wide for some time.

Whichever way it goes on October 14, it will be good to finally have some sort of clarity for businesses on what’s happening next for the economy (or at least who‘ll be steering it) and where things are headed.

The politicians might find themselves struggling for airtime though, going up against coverage of the Rugby World Cup (8 September - 28 October) – an event

The politicians might find themselves struggling for airtime against coverage of the Rugby World Cup – an event that offers a beacon of hope for hospo.

ELGNIS TLAM ELBUOD ROVALF

My picks

2021 Lake Chalice Falcon Syrah

I’ll walk over broken glass for a peppery Syrah and this one from Lake Chalice has the spice in spades and is incredible value for money. (Pg 35)

Bach Brewing Stone Age Nomad Hazy IPA

In the depths of winter, sometimes you just need a reminder that summer is on its way This new release from Bach Brewing is packed full of juicy hops for a tropical escape. (Pg 52)

Port O Ahuriri Golden Rum

I tasted this rum with its creator, Blair Nicholl from The National Distillery Company, at the Fine Food Show in Auckland. It's lush, complex and completely delicious. It also won the Trophy for Best NZ Rum in Category at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards. (Pg 72).

PUBLISHER

Karen Boult karen@boult.co.nz

+64 21 320 663

EDITOR

Victoria Wells victoria@drinksbiz.co.nz

+64 27 575 9021

DESIGNER

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+64 21 146 6404 hurstmedia.nz

ADVERTISING

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drinksbiz.co.nz

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NEW ZEALAND’S FINEST

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE ALL BLACKS

Experience the terroir of Appleton Estate

Appleton Estate’s 15 Year Old Black River Casks rum is now available in New Zealand…

WITH A history of rum-making that dates back more than 270 years, Appleton Estate produces complex rums from the heart of tropical Jamaica. It combines its history of artisanal distilling with innovative releases that capture its unique terroir, such as the super-premium 15 Year Old Black River Casks, which is now available in New Zealand through distributor Thirsty Camel, a joint venture of Campari Group.

A place like no other

The Appleton Estate story takes place in the densely forested hills of Jamaica’s Nassau Valley. The nutrient-rich, fertile soil and temperate climate create unique growing conditions, perfect for the ten individual varieties of sugarcane that Appleton Estate produces. This makes Appleton Estate one of the few rums in the world with a terroir.

The Estate is situated in a karst: rare landscapes made of cone-like limestone hill formations, caves and underground water sources. The limestone acts as a natural filter for rain; absorbing tropical showers and producing a stream of clear

azure water that runs through the hills of the Estate and adds a signature sweetness to the rums.

The Black River is the heart of Jamaica and the soul of Appleton Estate rums. Its character brings a unique profile to the fermentation of the molasses and to the distillation of the subsequent rums.

Artisan rum distilling

Appleton Estate is the oldest continuously run rum distillery in Jamaica. Records show that the first distillation was in 1749, and a legacy of passionate people nurturing the Estate and its rums has continued ever since.

Its premium rum range is made using local varieties of sugarcane, non-GMO yeasts for fermentation and limestonefiltered spring water – all of which add a distinctive quality to each bottle of Appleton Estate rum.

Appleton Estate rums age nearly three times more quickly in the tropical climate of Jamaica than spirits aged in cooler climates, allowing for richer, fuller flavours to develop in a shorter time.

The magic of Master Blender Joy Spence

Appleton Estate’s internationally renowned rums are crafted under the experienced guidance of Master Blender Joy Spence. Joy’s passion and dedication to her craft led her to be promoted to the position of Master Blender in 1997, becoming the first woman in the spirits industry to hold the title.

Joy Spence first joined Appleton Estate in 1981 as Chief Chemist, having graduated from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and the University of Loughborough with a Master of Science in Analytical Chemistry.

Every barrel of rum used in Appleton Estate rums is personally and expertly selected by Joy Spence and her team. Under her careful stewardship, Appleton Estate’s premium, authentic Jamaican rums capture the distinctive terroir and flavour of the vibrant Caribbean Island.

In her time at Appleton Estate, Joy Spence has created many of the blends that have made the Estate famous, from the 8 Year Old Reserve to the highly limited ultra-premium 50 Year Old (the world’s oldest barrel-aged rum that has been bottled and sold to date), and the

new super premium 15 Year Old Black River Casks rum.

15YO Black River Casks arrives in NZ

The 15 Year Old Black River Casks is Appleton Estate’s newest expression of aged rum and is now available in New Zealand through Thirsty Camel.

The super-premium rum pays homage to the Black River, nestled deep in the heart of Jamaica’s Nassau Valley. It’s this river, whose waters flow from limestonefiltered springs, that give life to the water used to create all Appleton Estate rum.

In keeping with the high standard Appleton Estate demands of all its rums, the 15 Year Old follows a minimum age requirement, meaning it has been aged for at least 15 years, creating a smoother and more robust tasting experience.

“The rum that we chose for the 15 Year Old is a rare blend of pot and column-still rums resulting in a rich and full-bodied finish,” says Joy Spence. “There is a delicate spice with a fruity subtle oak ending that reflects the lush and fertile land that the Black River runs through here in the Nassau Valley.”

Appleton Estate 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 Appleton Estate range

Appleton Estate Signature

700ml RRP $54.99* and 1L RRP $69.99*

Aromas of rich fruit and sweet caramel, with flavours of subtle orange peel, dried apricot, fresh peach, a hint of molasses and woody notes.

Appleton Estate 8 Year Old

700ml RRP $69.99*

Aromas of spicy fruit and oak open up to hints of honey, vanilla, spice, and Appleton Estate’s signature orange peel note. A smooth finish balanced with a hint of molasses and warm oak.

Appleton Estate 12 Year Old

700ml RRP $84.99*

A deep bronze rum with flavours of oak, fruit, cocoa, molasses, orange peel, rich vanilla and subtle coffee with a bittersweet finish.

NEW - Appleton Estate 15 Year Old Black River Casks

700ml RRP $129.99*

Aromas of toasted almond and delicate hazelnut are followed by notes of intense orange peel, rich vanilla and subtle hints of medium roasted coffee and molasses. This expression presents a coppery hue with a honey gold ring of age, and ends with a creamy, lingering finish.

Appleton Estate 21 Year Old

Nassau Valley Casks

700ml RRP $229.99*

Its floral scent develops into a unique, mature nutty bouquet with notes of deep vanilla, echoes of orange peel, nutmeg, warm coffee and cocoa.

*Prices effective from 1 September.

New Zealander to head OIV

NEW ZEALANDER Dr John Barker has been elected as the new Director General of The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV).

The OIV is an intergovernmental organisation that issues recommendations on technical and scientific aspects of viticulture and winemaking. It has 49 Member States and 17 Observers. In 100 years of the OIV, there has never been a Director General from a Southern Hemisphere country. Dr Barker will hold the position from 2024-2028.

In announcing the result, the OIV said that 46 out of 47 eligible Member States had voted for Dr Barker. He will start his mandate in January 2024, the “International Year of Vine and Wine” and when the organisation celebrates its centenary.

Dr Barker has had a long involvement with the OIV, attending his first OIV meeting in 2000 while researching his PhD thesis on the international regulation

of the wine sector. He was appointed an Expert Delegate for New Zealand in 2004 and has actively participated in the OIV for 17 years in various roles, including President, Law and Economy Commission.

He currently runs his own legal and consulting practice, focused primarily on the wine sector and regulation in the international wine industry. He was formerly NZ Winegrower’s General Counsel and General Manager Advocacy from 2004 to 2014.

Dr Barker said: “I am very honoured to have been elected as Director General of the OIV, and I thank the New Zealand Government and New Zealand Winegrowers for their support. I believe that it is essential for the global wine sector to have a modern, effective and representative international organisation, and I look forward to working together on the opportunities and challenges facing our industry, like the digital economy, climate change and the role of wine in society.”

2023 NZ vintage down, but wine exports up 25%

STRONG EXPORT value and increasing international demand will help support further export growth over the next 12 months, despite a challenging season and a smaller harvest than last year, says New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW).

It reports that nationally, harvest was down 6% on the record level 2022 vintage, with 501,000 tonnes of grapes harvested this year. Meanwhile, the total value of the New Zealand wine industry exports (year to May 2023) was $2.4 billion, up 25% on 2022.

“Reaching another new record level of wine exports into some of the world’s largest and most competitive markets is an outstanding achievement for New Zealand wine exporters, and testifies to the increasingly strong global demand for our wines,” says Philip Gregan, CEO of New Zealand Winegrowers.

New Zealand wine is exported to more than 100 countries and is New Zealand’s fifth largest export good. In 2022, New Zealand was the world’s sixth largest wine exporter by value, despite

producing only 1% of the world’s wine.

“New Zealand wine, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, is going from strength to strength in the USA, as consumers appreciate the distinctive flavours, commitment to quality, and know it is a unique product that they can trust,” adds Gregan.

NZ Winegrowers says that in the South Island the 2023 vintage was excellent overall, and well received by growers, who enjoyed better growing conditions in which to complete harvest. On the

other hand, unprecedented wet weather made the season tough for regions in the North Island. However, despite these challenges, producers were largely very happy with the quality of the 2023 harvest.

NZ Winegrowers says that the success of the 2023 vintage further emphasises the resilience of the industry, as surging production costs continue to impact growers and wineries, and the scarcity of skilled workers remains a concern, along with operating in an uncertain economic environment.

Hospo NZ calls for Minister of Hospitality

HOSPITALITY NZ is calling for the appointment of a Minister of Hospitality from the incoming government following the October election, as well as changes to immigration and alcohol policies, tourism funding and industry training.

The new Ministerial role is one of seven requests from the industry body, which has released its election manifesto and is also asking political parties to commit to more support for

industry training; changes to immigration policies; enduring funding for tourism; a handbrake on regulation; changes to alcohol policy; and levelling the playing field with short-term rental accommodation.

Hospitality NZ Chief Executive Julie White says the industry’s demands are straightforward, easily achievable and will be felt beyond the immediate hospitality industry.

Hospitality NZ outlines its priorities each election cycle for ministers, MPs, and candidates. Julie White says that the 2023 election is more significant as the industry continues to struggle to recover from the impact of COVID and economic pressures, and as New Zealand heads into a recessionary period.

Find the full manifesto at hospitality.org.nz/s/advocacy

Dr John Barker

Diary Dates

AUGUST

Tuesday 15 – Thursday 17 August

EuroVintage Roadshow (Akl, Wgtn, Chch)

Meet the people behind the brands and estates that make up EuroVintage’s comprehensive global portfolio. Three events to be held in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. All trade welcome to attend between 1pm – 6pm. The events will be held in Auckland at Tote on Ascot in Ellerslie on Tuesday 15th August, at Harbourside Function Centre in Wellington on Wednesday 16th August and at the Christchurch Town Hall on Thursday 17th 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 for two days of classic, new and unique brews from a range of New Zealand’s top breweries and international guests. beervana.co.nz

Friday 25 – Sunday 27 August

Tauranga Food Show

Beverage Masterclasses in wine, beer and spirits are a new addition at this year’s Tauranga Food Show to be held at Mercury Baypark Arena. taurangafoodshow.nz

SEPTEMBER

Friday 1 September

Entries close for NZ International Wine Show Entries for NZIWS close today with samples due by Friday 8 September. nziws.co.nz

Monday 11 – Thursday 14 September

Fine Food Australia – Sydney

More than 850 Australian and international exhibitors will showcase the latest food and beverage products, technology and services at the Sydney International Convention Centre over four days. finefoodaustralia.com.au

OCTOBER

Saturday 7 October

Gintastic – Christchurch

The Gintastic boutique gin festival comes to Christchurch’s Tai Tapu Hotel for a day of gin tasting and live music. gintasticnz.com

Wednesday 11 October

NZ International Wine Show Public Tasting – Auckland

A consumer tasting of the Gold Medal-winning wines at the 2023 NZ International Wine Show. (Venue yet to be confirmed as Drinksbiz went to print.) nziws.co.nz

Friday 13 October

NZ International Wine Show Awards Night – Auckland

The Trophy Awards event for the 2023 NZ International Wine Show will be held at Auckland’s Crowne Plaza Hotel. nziws.co.nz

Saturday 21 October

Gintastic – Blenheim

The Vines Village in Marlborough plays host to The Gintastic series of boutique gin festivals with a day of gin tasting and live music. gintasticnz.com

Sunday 22 October

First Light Wine & Food Festival –Gisborne

A celebration of Gisborne wine alongside local food and live music to be held across Matawhero and TW Wines. firstlightwineandfood.co.nz

Law change to help venues ahead of Rugby World Cup

HOSPITALITY NEW Zealand has welcomed legislation allowing venues to extend trading hours without having to apply for a special licence so patrons can watch live televised Rugby World Cup matches.

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Rugby World Cup 2023 Extended Trading Hours) Amendment Bill passed its third reading in late July with strong support across the House.

Former Justice Minister Kiri Allan said at the time that the Government had changed the law to ensure businesses can maximise the benefits of the highly-anticipated tournament. “Businesses will be able to remain open outside of normal trading hours when televising live Rugby World Cup matches, which will take place in France. It will mean businesses won’t have to go through the usual special licence process.

“By passing this Bill now, businesses will have time to plan before kick-off on

9 September, when the All Blacks open the tournament against the hosts, France,” said Allan.

Hospitality NZ Chief Executive Julie White said the passing of the Bill by Parliament seven weeks from the start of the tournament gives some certainty to the industry.

“Venues will be able to begin organising staffing rosters and supplies so they’re ready

to welcome guests into safe environments in the early hours of the morning.

“They will still have to give notice to police and their local council if they intend to open, but this legislation makes the whole process a lot easier and faster.

“Hospitality NZ was keen to see this happen and were pleased to be able to support the process of the bill, working with the Ministry of Justice before it proceeded to Parliament.”

Julie White also welcomed the select committee’s recommendations that the Government consider a permanent legislative solution for the sale and supply of alcohol during future Rugby World Cups and similar big events.

“Certainty and less red tape can make a huge difference in the daily lives of hospitality operators, so we look forward to seeing something that helps with that.”

GINTASTIC

New Chief Executive for Hospitality NZ

HOSPITALITY NZ President Nick Keene has announced Steve Armitage as the organisation’s new Chief Executive, effective from 14 August.

Armitage’s career has spanned the public and private sectors, most recently specialising in tourism, major events, business attraction, communications and public affairs.

He was GM, Destination, at ATEED for eight years until 2021, and since then has chaired the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) and consulted to the events and tourism industry.

Keene said Armitage’s proven track record, deep understanding of the industry, and alignment with the organisation’s strategic goals made him the ideal candidate to lead the organisation.

“We are thrilled to have Steve join our team as the new Chief Executive. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, and his forward-thinking mindset aligns perfectly with Hospitality NZ’s vision for the next 3-5 years,” said Keene.

Keene also thanked outgoing Chief Executive Julie White for her significant contributions to Hospitality NZ over the past five years. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Julie for her dedication and achievements during her tenure.”

NZ Venue Co buys Morningside hospo spots

NEW

ZEALAND Venue Co

has purchased The Morningside Tavern and neighbouring event space Glasshouse in Auckland, adding to its hospitality portfolio.

NZ Venue Co. (NZVC), which also owns and operates Saint Alice, Dr Rudi’s, St Johns, Dirty Little Secret and Concrete Bar, will now have 13 venues within its portfolio: four in Auckland and nine in the capital.

NZVC has been operating venues since 2018, when it acquired Dr Rudi’s as its first Auckland venue.

NZVC says that The Morningside Tavern and Glasshouse will continue to operate as usual following completion of the sale, with all team members invited to maintain their positions and previous owner Rod Ballenden staying on to manage events at the Glasshouse.

Both venues opened in 2018 under the development of the Morningside precinct and quickly became local favourites –

Morningside Tavern as a family friendly watering hole and Glasshouse as one of Auckland’s premier wedding and event locations.

CEO of NZVC, Paul Waterson, said the acquisition reflects the group’s strong track record of operating venues and its confidence in the country’s hospitality outlook. “We always look to invest in

venues which have a special connection with their customers. Morningside Tavern and Glasshouse have very strong relationships within their community, which reflects the way our existing venues operate. It will be a great fit.

“We’re excited to keep growing in Auckland and to work with Rod on the next chapter of these venues.”

Steve Armitage

The Morningside Tavern

Lion takes 100% ownership of Four Pillars

LION HAS moved to 100% ownership of Australian gin brand Four Pillars, just over four years after it purchased 50% of the Yarra Valley-based gin business.

The acquisition includes ownership of the Four Pillars distillery in Healesville and all domestic and international sales and marketing of the brand. Lion NZ will distribute Four Pillars in the New Zealand market from 4 September.

Four Pillars Gin was established in 2013 in the Yarra Valley on the outskirts of Melbourne and has become one of the world’s benchmark distilleries and Australia’s number one craft spirit.

Four Pillars Co-Founders, Chief Distiller, Cameron Mackenzie and Brand and Strategy Director, Matt Jones will remain in the business in their current capacities while Co-Founder and Trade Director Stuart Gregor will remain in the short-term before taking an extended sabbatical.

Four Pillars joins the Lion-owned Vanguard Luxury Spirits business and will operate as a stand-alone spirits division within Lion Australia, called Four Corners Global Spirits.

Cameron Mackenzie said: “This is a great day for our brand, the business, our home in Healesville, our investors, families and staff. It does feel like it’s been a whirlwind 10 years, and this feels like the absolute right next step.

Steinlager’s iconic White Can returns

IN TIME for the year’s biggest tournament, Steinlager has brought back its iconic White Can as a symbol of support for the All Blacks.

The Steinlager White Can was originally available between 1981 and 1992, with many cans raised in triumph in 1987 when the All Blacks beat France to become World Champions. The White Can then made comebacks in 2011, 2015 and 2019 to help unite Kiwi fans

as they backed their team taking on the world in rugby.

“Steinlager has been supporting the All Blacks unconditionally since 1986 and relaunching the White Can is a way for fans to join us in showing their loyalty,” says Steinlager Brand Manager Lauren Dyke.

“The can is iconic and we hope raising a few will be good luck charms this year. We look forward to cheering on the team and showing that Steinlager is the beer of believers.”

The limited-edition Steinlager Classic White Cans will be available from 14 August.

Steinlager White Can 10-pack RRP $20.99

Lion

“Lion has played an integral part in our growth across Australia and now increasingly New Zealand, as well as helping us plug into some great opportunities internationally and in Global Travel Retail through the wider Lion network.”

“Steinlager has been supporting the All Blacks unconditionally since 1986 and relaunching the White Can is a way for fans to join us in showing their loyalty.”

– Steinlager Brand Manager Lauren Dyke.

BENITO MARTIN

TASTE THE WORLD OF EUROVINTAGE

AUCKLAND

TUESDAY 15 TH AUGUST

Tote on Ascot, Ellerslie Event Centre 1 PM- 5.30 PM

WELLINGTON

WEDNESDAY 16 TH AUGUST

Harbourside Function Centre 1 PM- 6 PM

CHRISTCHURCH

THURSDAY 17 TH AUGUST

Limes Room, Christchurch Town Hall 1 PM- 6 PM

Meet the people behind the brands & estates that make up our comprehensive global portfolio. Taste your way through our award-winning wine selection & explore our range of beer & spirits. Over 40 brand partners from Europe, South Africa, Australia, South America & New Zealand will be there!

| FRESCOBALDI | GALWAY PIPE | GANCIA | GRAHAM’S | GRAHAM NORTON | GIBBSTON VALLEY | HUNTER’S | INVIVO & CO

INVIVO X, SJP | JOSEPH DROUHIN | KLIPDRIFT | KIM CRAWFORD | LAWSON’S DRY HILLS | LEONARDO | LOUIS PERDRIER | LISTEL

LUNA ESTATE | LUSTAU | MAIN DIVIDE | MAUDE WINES | MEDICI | MOUNT LANGI | MURIEL | NEUDORF | PAZO CILLEIRO

PEGASUS BAY | REEFTON DISTILLING CO | REAL COMPA ÑÍ A | RICHELIEU | ROSABEL | RED KNOT | DOMAINES SCHLUMBERGER | SERAFINO

SHINGLEBACK | SPIEGELAU | STONE’S | SYMINGTON FAMILY ESTATE

TE MATA ESTATE | TEMPUS TWO | TORRES | THORN-CLARKE | TRAPICHE

VEUVE DU VERNAY | VOK | WIRRA WIRRA | XANADU | YERING STATION

Come and experience New Zealand’s most exciting wine, spirits & beer portfolio.

MAISON SAINT AIX | AMARULA | ANDREW GARRET | ANGOVE | ANGUS THE BULL | ARAGONESAS | ATA RANGI | BABICH BARTON & GUESTIER | BERESFORD | BEENLEIGH | BLANK CANVAS | THE BUTCHER’S CELLAR | CA’DI RAJO | CABLE BAY | CARRICK | CASTA ÑO DON RAMÓN | COCKBURN’S | COOPERS | DELAS | DOW’S | DOMAINE DROUHIN VAUDON | CH ÂTEAU MAGNOL | M.CHAPOUTIER ELDERTON

Finery bolsters board, announces capital raise

NEW ZEALAND company Finery has its sights on expansion with the support of two high-profile FMCG players joining its board, and the announcement of a crowdfunding campaign.

Maree Glading (co-founder of I Love Food Co) and Dene Brosnan (who has held several FMCG roles, including Heinz Wattie’s, I Love Food Co. and currently NZ Creameries) are joining the Finery board effective immediately, bringing their expertise and investment in the company.

Launched in 2019, Finery produces a selection of lightly alcoholic and nonalcoholic ready-to-drink vodka and soda blends. It first launched into the ‘better for you’ alcohol trend with its 5% alcohol offering and then released its 0% range to market in 2021, becoming the first local brand to market in the alcohol-free category.

With distribution in 180 stores throughout New Zealand and consistent revenue growth, the company says it now has 33% of the local non-alcoholic category in grocery. It is looking to build on this success with the announcement of a capital raise to support new product development and further global expansion.

In collaboration with Equitise, Finery has a goal of raising $720,000 (with a

SHOWCASE

Chch bar reigns Supreme at Hospitality Awards

KAISER BREW Garden of Christchurch won the Supreme Award at the 2023 Hospitality Awards for Excellence, having also won the Best Bar category and the Best Marketed Establishment category.

The awards were announced in late June on the final night of the two-day Hospitality New Zealand Conference and are hosted by Hospitality New Zealand in partnership with principal sponsor Lion New Zealand and industry partners.

Kaiser Brew Garden was chosen for the top award from the winners of the other 20 categories.

Hospitality New Zealand Chief Executive Julie White said Kaiser Brew Bar was a very worthy winner from one of the best line-ups of finalists seen in years. “They are well-deserved winners, and Hospitality New Zealand congratulates Campbell Parker and their team. They did a fantastic job during yet another year of the most trying of circumstances.”

minimum raise of $300,000) to support a three-year strategic growth plan in Australasia. Expressions of interest started in mid-July and the campaign goes live for investment in mid-August and will run for four weeks.

A fast path to great Duty Managers

GOOD DUTY Managers mean good business. Good DMs know how to manage host responsibility, maintaining the integrity of your liquor licence.

GETLCQ is the largest provider of the Licence Controller Qualification in New Zealand. The 100% online course means applicants can start the course at any time of the day or night. For only $150 (incl GST) licensees can train more staff to become DMs as well as using the course as a valuable learning tool for all staff to have an understanding of their obligations under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.

Piet van de Klundert, founder and creator of GETLCQ, has worked in the hospitality industry both owning and operating liquor licences. He saw the need for a highly accessible, low cost and professional LCQ course that met

industry needs. “We needed to change up the model of the LCQ where businesses had to wait for a course in their area to occur,” says Piet. “With the high level of staff turnover in industry it was extremely expensive for businesses to keep putting new people through. With GETLCQ, staff can start the course at any time and licencees can put through multiple staff at a much lower cost.”

GETLCQ supports learners with an 0800 number, video conferencing for support and a fast turn-around of results. Learners work through a series of informative and engaging lessons and then sit their assessment at the end. An experienced staff member technically could start and finish the course in a day. On the GETLCQ website there is the ‘Duty Manager’s Toolbox’, a free section where DMs can download all of the neccesary

Tony Crosbie of South Island Hospitality Group was inducted into the Hospitality Hall of Fame during the awards. Winners of the People’s Categories were announced earlier in the week.

Full results at hospitality.org.nz/s/ awards

forms, signage and templates to support them in their role.

The DMs Newsletter also launched this year. This is a monthly newsletter that goes out to all previous learners, keeping them up to date with best practice and how to be the best DM for their premises and also features interviews with other DMs, Police and other stakeholders.

Get your LCQ on with GETLCQ.

Visit getlcq.co.nz

A taste of Appleton Estate for Father’s Day

MAKE FATHER’S Day gifting easy with The Rum Master’s Selection from Appleton Estate.

With Father’s Day in September and the festive season fast approaching, The Rum Master’s Selection from Appleton Estate is the perfect solution for consumers looking for a special gift.

The Rum Master’s Selection is a premium selection trial pack designed to introduce consumers to the Appleton Estate brand and its range of aged rums. Presented in a stylish gift box, the Selection contains three 200ml bottles

product and explore the variety of the range without the commitment of three individual bottle purchases.

Quality and authenticity

Because Appleton Estate is an authentic Jamaican rum, it follows the mandated regulation of minimum age. Any Appleton Estate bottle with an age statement represented indicates that the youngest liquid is aged for that number of years as minimum.

Appleton Estate’s 8 Year Old and 12 Year Old expressions contain rums hand-

The Rum Master’s Selection is the perfect way to showcase Appleton Estate’s signature rums

of the Appleton Estate core range: Signature, 8 Year Old, and 12 Year Old.

These expressions show the rums’ premium quality and versatility across different age statements, in convenient small bottles. The Rum Master’s Selection is the perfect way to showcase Appleton Estate’s signature rums, championing the exceptional terroir of Jamaica.

With rum serves outlined on the back of the pack, the Selection offers a journey through the brand’s iconic permanent range for Rum & Dark Spirits Consumers looking to sample the

selected by Master Blender Joy Spence, all aged at least eight and twelve years respectively, with older rums.

Not many rum producers, following strict regulations such as the ones in Jamaica, can claim a collection of premium products as extensive as the core range of Appleton Estate.

A chance to sample and enjoy

Each of the three Appleton Estate expressions in The Rum Master’s Selection can be explored as part of delicious Jamaican cocktails, as well as enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Each expression shines through in its signature serve to showcase versatility, depth of flavour, and a smooth finish.

Global award winners

The three rums in The Appleton Estate Rum Master’s Selection have also been awarded extensively internationally.

Appleton Estate Signature

2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge: 92 Points (Excellent, Highly Recommended) Finalist, Great Value.

Appleton Estate 8 Year Old

2020 Beverage Tasting Institute:

91 Points

2020 San Francisco Spirits

Competition: Gold Medal

2020 Ultimate Spirits Challenge: 97 points (Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation), Finalist, Great Value, Top 100 Spirits of 2020.

Appleton Estate 12 Year Old

2020 NY International Spirits

Competition: Double Gold

2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge: 94 Points (Excellent, Highly Recommended) Finalist.

The Appleton Estate Rum Master’s Selection is RRP $69.99.

Appleton Estate 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.

All eyes on wine industry up-and-comers

The coveted titles of Young Viticulturist and Young Winemaker are again on offer for young industry hopefuls from around New Zealand…

Build-up on to 2023 Young Vit National Final

THE HEAT is on following the regional competitions as five Young Vits prepare for the 2023 Young Viticulturist of the Year National Final, being held at Paritua in Hawke’s Bay on 30-31 August.

This year’s finalists are:

• Tai Nelson, Soljans, Auckland

• Nick Putt, Craggy Range, Hawke’s Bay

• Zac Howell, Indevin, Marlborough

• Tristan van Schalkwyk, The Bone Line, Waipara

• Nina Downer, Felton Road, Central Otago.

Congratulations also goes to Annika Salenjus from Craggy Range, Wairarapa who won her local competition.

A conference will be held alongside the National Final on 31 August entitled ‘Weather –the good, the bad and the ugly’. This event will be held at Linden Estate in Esk Valley and will finish with a tasting in Gimblett Gravels. The 2023 Young Viticulturist of the Year will be announced that evening at the Awards Dinner. Drinksbiz will have coverage of the winner online at drinksbiz. co.nz and in the upcoming OctNov 2023 issue. Congratulations

2023 Young Winemaker of the Year kicking off

YOUNG WINEMAKERS around New Zealand have started preparing for the Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year competitions, which have begun with education sessions around the country.

In Marlborough, this included a tour of the Bragato Research Institute where pioneering projects are undertaken to keep New Zealand at the cutting edge of the competitive global wine market.

The Young Winemaker competitions will take place throughout September with the National Final to be held on 31 October.

to all contestants in this year's competitions

Tai Nelson

Nick Putt

Zac Howell

Tristan van Schalkwyk

Nina Downer

Annika Salenjus

Generations of expertise at Saverglass

WITH ITS headquarters not far from Paris, in the small village of Feuquières where it has been since 1897, Saverglass has dazzled the world for more than a century with the expertise of its master glassmakers.

They proudly claim skills handed down from generation to generation, and with several generations of some families having worked for the company it is truly a family affair!

A global glass specialist

Today, the Saverglass Group has factories in Feuquières, Le Havre and Arques in France, as well as in the UAE, Mexico, and Belgium, all producing the same exceptional quality glass with French ‘savoire faire’ at its core. Ancient skills handed down blend seamlessly with cutting edge technological advances to create superb products.

The breadth and depth of the Saverglass collection of bottles and decanters of exceptional quality is unparalleled. Original designs are worked down to the smallest detail and their clarity and brilliance showcase

exceptional glass mastery, quality and purity of glass. Some lines include sizes ranging from 50ml through to 4.5 litres, giving customers great flexibility.

Customise your look

Along with its range of bottles, Saverglass provides an array of customisation options to highlight how products can be enhanced, sophistication added and made to stand out from the crowd. These options include glass tints (ready to order or customisable), engravings and many decoration options, such as:

• precious metal printing or hot stamping

• organic or enamel silkscreen printing

• full, partial or graded coating using gloss, matte, translucent or opaque finishes

• frosted finishes created by sandblasting or acid etching

• glass embossing or the unique Art and Touch proprietary process

• iridescent coating

• accessory fitting (gemstone, metal or leather items, for example)

Meet the TSAR

The TSAR range from Saverglass presents

a compact, tapered bottle featuring slightly rounded edges. TSAR is faintly reminiscent of the inverted contours featured on the Russian papakha (the army hat associated with the former Russian Empire).

TSAR sports an immediately recognisable profile with a simple style that combines functionality and ergonomics. Featuring a short neck, this beautiful bottle with an ultra-modern, inverted and tapered design, is available in 500ml, 700ml and 750ml options. Find out more about the Saverglass range 09 522 2990 saverglass.com

TSAR

A SHINING STYLE FOR SUMMER SPIRITS

Perfectly balanced, the slightly curved contours of the TSAR bottle allude to the papakha, the famous headwear worn in the former Russian Empire. The TSAR’s compact design proudly features a refined, functional and harmonious style. With a timeless inverted conical design container and short neck, it is also available as a 50 cl bottle. A pure, compelling and ideal shape for customization, it is an attractive choice for all kinds of spirits.

Peru’s Central wins World’s Best Restaurant 2023

PERUVIAN RESTAURANT Central has taken the coveted top spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list.

Central is described as “an ode to Peru”, with a menu that celebrates the unique biodiversity of the country’s indigenous ingredients – guided by its research arm, Mater Iniciativa – along with its traditions and history, whilst championing sustainability.

It is the flagship Lima restaurant of chefs Virgilio Martinez and Pía León, and in 2022 it placed second, behind Geranium in Copenhagen, which is now elevated to the Best of the Best hall of fame with other previous No. 1 ranked restaurants and no longer eligible for voting.

The Top 10 in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023

1. Central, Lima, Peru

2. Disfrutar, Barcelona

3. Diverxo, Madrid

4. Asador Etxebarri, Atxondo, Spain

5. Alchemist, Copenhagen

See the full list online at theworlds50best.com

Corona and Selina team up for nature travel

CORONA HAS teamed up with Selina Hospitality – a global lifestyle and experiential hospitality company – to create unique travel experiences and help LDA+ (over legal drinking age) guests disconnect and reconnect with nature.

The collaboration is set to launch later this year in Selina properties around the world and will promote sustainability through activations, clean-ups, education, music, art and events.

“We are excited to bring our global Corona brand to more people around the world through this partnership,” said Thiago Zanettini, Global Vice President of Commercial Marketing, AB InBev. “Travel is part of Corona DNA, so by bringing unique experiences and activations to Selina hotels we will help more people enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with nature.”

Founded in 2014, Selina is a fast-growing hospitality company with properties in 24 countries across six continents. It was built to address the needs of millennial and Gen Z

Rippon named in World’s Best Vineyards 2023

CENTRAL OTAGO winery Rippon has been recognised as one of the best in the world, placing 11th in the World’s Best Vineyards list for 2023 and the only New Zealand winery to be named in the Top 50.

The list is compiled from all the nominations by the global academy of voters, made up of wine and travel experts, and is designed to showcase the very best of wine tourism, highlighting the world’s finest and diverse vineyards across the globe.

Catena Zapata in the Mendoza province of Argentina was voted number one and also won overall South American vineyard. Founded in 1902, it is known for its pioneering role in reinventing Malbec.

Rioja’s Bodegas de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal with its stunning, futuristic architecture and impressive setting came in second place and took the spot for top vineyard in Europe.

6. Maido, Lima, Peru

7. Lido 84, Gardone Riviera, Italy

8. Atomix, New York

9. Quintonil, Mexico City

10. Table by Bruno Verjus, Paris

travellers by providing guests with a global infrastructure to seamlessly travel and work abroad, offering beautifully designed accommodation with coworking, recreation, wellness, and local experiences.

The partnership will only be activated outside the United States and will have a phased approach. Initially, the collaboration will focus on raising awareness and promoting sustainability practices in hotel environments. In the second phase, Selina locations will host a range of co-branded events and activations as part of the Corona Sunsets Festival including beach parties, music and cultural events. Guests at Selina properties will also gain access to exclusive experiences and discounts on Corona products, while Corona fans will gain the opportunity to explore Selina’s unique accommodations and community spaces.

The Top 20 World’s Best Vineyards for 2023

1. Catena Zapata – Mendoza, Argentina

2. Bodegas de los Herederos del Marques de Riscal – Spain

3. VIK – Chile

4. Creation – South Africa

5. Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte – France

6. Bodega Garzon – Uruguay

7. Montes –Chile

8. Schloss Johannisberg – Germany

9. Bodegas Salentein – Argentina

10. El Enemigo Wines – Argentina

11. Rippon – New Zealand

12. Weingut Dr. Loosen – Germany

13. Finca Victoria, Durigutti Family Winemakers – Argentina

14. Domäne Wachau – Austria

15. Quinta do Crasto – Portugal

16. Quinta do Noval – Portugal

17. d’Arenberg – Australia

18. Château d’Yquem – France

19. Château Pape Clément – France

20. Jordan Vineyard & Winery – USA

See the full list at worldsbestvineyards.com

BUSINESS WIRE

Catena Zapata

Virgilio Martínez of Central BUSINESS WIRE

The next step in energy with Future Drinks Co.

THERE’S A new face in locally-made energy drinks with the arrival of Future Drinks Co. The New Zealand-owned start-up makes all-natural, zero sugar, plant-based energy drinks using natural caffeine in Peach and Citrus flavours.

250ml can is RRP $2.79

Future Drinks Co.

VGreen gets a taste lift

FRUCOR SUNTORY'S iconic energy drink V Green is getting a taste lift and some new-look packaging.

Allison Yorston, Chief Marketing Officer Oceania, says they have further refined what people already enjoyed, based on research insights from loyal V fans. “V Green has gained an extremely loyal following since its launch 26 years ago. After hearing from our loyal consumers, our experts have created a smoother, more refreshing V Green. The changes to V Green reflect our willingness to continue innovate and drive the category forward to give consumers what they want. By changing V Green – both from a flavour and design perspective – we think we have met the needs of existing drinkers and new ones.”

The new design 250ml green cans are rolling out now in stores across Aotearoa, followed by larger cans and bottles. The entire V family will follow the lead of V Green with new-look packaging as part of the roll-out.

Frucor Suntory

Lyre’s completes multi-million funding round to meet accelerating global demand

NON-ALCOHOLIC SPIRITS brand Lyre’s completed its latest strategic funding round in July, successfully raising close to £18 million (NZ$37 million), led by pedigree investors DSquared (London/ Dubai) and Morgan Creek Consumer Fund (Chapel Hill, NC, USA).

The company says that this was endorsed with further support from existing shareholders who also participated, demonstrating that even in the most challenging economic environment Lyre’s continues to be a highly sought after brand and proposition for consumers and investors.

Lyre’s was recognised as the world’s number one trending non-alcoholic brand by Drinks International in early 2023 and

continues to see “extraordinary” yearon-year growth in all major markets. It says that this recent round of funding will be used to continue driving momentum in key markets, such as Australia, North

America, Europe and the Middle East as well as to drive the company through its next stage of growth and see a more enhanced global supply footprint.

Kristy Bloomfield, Senior VP of Global Marketing, says: “It is an exciting time for the brand as more and more people choose Lyre’s as reflected in our exceptional growth. Consumers across ANZ can now enjoy a Lyre’s in 5,000+ venues including Qantas Lounges, Accor Hotels, all major retailers, and leading restaurants across ANZ. We are delivering programmes and tactics that are introducing a wider audience into the category, which in turn aids in our ambition to change the way the world drinks.”

DAWN AS AWESOME AS DUSK

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 G&T from Greenhill

NEW FROM local brand Greenhill Seltzers is a G&T variant, adding to its three vodka-based seltzers. Simply called ‘Gin & Tonic’ it’s described as: “A light Gin & Tonic with a splash of Gisborne lemon. Classically simple and a little bit fancy.” The Greenhill vodka seltzer range already includes Lime & Elderflower, Berry Crush, and Pineapple Express and all its products are gluten-free, free of artificial flavours and preservatives and less than 2% sugar.

Greenhill Seltzers G&T 330ml 10-pack is RRP $28.99.

Greenhill Beverages

Time for tequila with El Gusano

AS INTEREST in tequila-based drinks ramps up, new Kiwi RTD brand El Gusano is getting ready for a big summer. Founded by six friends, El Gusano combines tequila with real fruit flavouring of lime and orange to create an all-natural, low in sugar, veganfriendly, tequila cocktail-inspired beverage.

El Gusano Margarita 330ml 10-pack is RRP $29.99.

El Gusano

New 10-packs for Native Sparkling

NEW ZEALAND’S first hard seltzer, Native Sparkling, is going bigger with new 10-packs of its flavours now available.

Native Sparkling’s range is made with premium plant-based vodka, real fruit and sparkling water and includes Apple & Feijoa; Lemon & Yuzu; and Peach, Mango and Passionfruit.

The new eye-catching 10-packs feature artwork by New Zealand artist FLOX and are available across the range and in a mixed-case as well.

Native Sparkling 330ml 10-pack is RRP $29.99.

Native Sparkling

No bubble trouble with Fizzliss

IN A twist on regular RTDs, Fizzliss is a New Zealand range of vodkabased RTDs without carbonation. Created by friends Max Broadhurst and Zac Stevenson in 2020, the pair say they wanted to create an RTD with no bloating side effects.

The Fizzliss range includes: Pineapple & Passionfruit Vodka (6% ABV); Cranberry & Apple Vodka (6% ABV); and Old Fashioned Lemonade Vodka (5% ABV).

Fizzliss 330ml 10-pack is RRP $26.99 - $28.99.

Tasman Liquor Company

See page 86 for Distributor contact details.

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

Check your compliance

THE JUSTICE Select Committee has reported back on the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act (Community Participation) Bill (Bill). The Bill aims to increase the influence of local communities on alcohol licensing decisions in their area and proposes certain changes to the alcohol licensing process provided for in the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Under the current law, the licensing authority or licensing committee is not allowed to take into account any inconsistency between a relevant local alcohol policy (LAP) and the renewal of the licence or the consequences of its renewal. However, the Bill (under clause 12) would allow the licensing committee to take new LAP into account when considering renewals – including the ability to decline licence renewals if they are viewed as inconsistent with any location or licence density provisions.

In practical terms, what this means is that the licence renewal for an existing bottle store may be refused because a school, childcare and/or a kindergarten (sensitive site) has opened next door since its licence was last renewed and a new LAP stipulates that no off-licence will be granted where the site boundary is adjacent to a sensitive site. Under the current law, the newly established sensitive site cannot be taken into account because the bottle store existed before it.

The use of the word “may” in clause 12 of the Bill suggests some discretion may apply in refusing to renew a licence. The Justice Select Committee has not

suggested any changes to the proposed clause 12 of the Bill. Therefore, it will proceed to the second reading as is.

I understand that the reasoning behind the Bill is to increase community engagement and address alcohol-related issues. But is the Government’s current approach to tackle alcohol-related harm appropriate? Or is it unfairly shifting the imbalance towards an industry that is a significant contributor to the country’s economy and which would likely bear the brunt of these changes, namely –removing appeal rights against the LAP,

of the changes proposed by the Bill. This is because the licensing committee’s assessment, at the time of renewal, would be guided by public objections or concerns raised by the reporting agencies in relation to the location or premises density. If there are no such concerns, then the licensing committee would likely approve the renewal.

In my view, the changes (in particular clause 12) are targeted at high- to medium-risk premises, especially bottle stores and/or taverns, so as to restrict such premises in certain areas of the local community. Community organisations often view these premises negatively and hold them responsible for causing alcohol-related harm and the Bill is the Government’s response to address those concerns.

removing the requirement for objectors to have greater interest than the public generally, and granting the ability to refuse to renew a licence if inconsistent with the LAP provisions?

Albeit it is acknowledged that a licence is a privilege and not a right and the licensing committee has the powers to refuse to renew a licence if there are issues with the way a premises is being operated.

This said, it seems unlikely that low-risk businesses such as wineries, cellar doors, restaurants, and clubs operating in their local communities would encounter problems with their renewals as a result

I believe the upcoming changes to the alcohol licensing laws now make it more important than ever for licensees to implement effective systems that reduce alcohol-related harm in their establishments. This should not be a mere checkbox exercise. It is necessary for licensees to have appropriate systems, staff, and training to ensure their premises are operating in compliance with the law.

A compliant and well-managed premises is less likely to face objections or concerns from its local community and/or reporting agencies and more likely to have its licence renewed. It is also important that licensees are engaged with and aware of their local community’s concerns relating to alcohol sale and supply.

With changes ahead for alcohol licensing, lawyer Pervinder Kaur explains what it could mean and has some helpful advice…

In my view, the changes are targeted at high- to medium-risk premises.

Trading up

GLOBAL BEVERAGE alcohol is forecast to grow amidst a challenging political and economic landscape, and is projected to deliver over USD$21.6bn to the global economy by the end of 2023, according to comprehensive new data and forecasts from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis.

Future volume growth will be subdued, at +1% volume CAGR 2022-2027, and IWSR says that it expects a shift away from the US and China as the key volume drivers for the global beverage alcohol industry. Instead, India, Mexico and Brazil stand out as the key volume growth markets over the next five years. In fact, India and Mexico together accounted for over half of all volume growth in 2022.

The US and China will, however, remain significant value drivers despite expected volume declines 2022- 2027. Between 2022 and 2027, the US total beverage alcohol market will grow by USD$12 billion, and China’s by USD$41.7 billion.

“As geopolitical and economic turbulence impacts the market, alcohol drinkers are shifting their consumption behaviours,” notes Mark Meek, CEO,

IWSR Drinks Market Analysis. “The key trends that have underpinned the industry, such as premiumisation, will evolve as consumers respond to the increased cost of living crisis. The industry will, however, still deliver pockets of significant value growth. The pandemic also accelerated the rise of trends such as the at-home occasion and moderation; these behaviours are now here to stay.”

As consumer behaviours shift, IWSR notes that a twin-tracked premiumisation trend is evident. “In most mature markets, premiumisation looks to be embedded into consumer purchasing behaviours, and will continue to add value in most price tiers, albeit at slower growth rates,” notes Meek. “In developing markets, consumers are continuing to trade up as incomes rise.”

Premium-and-above price bands for beer, spirits and wines all outperformed their standard-and-below counterparts in 2022, and this trend will continue.

Consumers in India, China and the US show a higher recalled-spend than other key markets, with much of this driven by

younger adults between the ages of LDA (legal drinking age) and 39.

Premium segments in the global travel retail channel will continue to regain market share as the channel increasingly embraces the role of a high-end product showcase. The return of Chinese travellers will provide a significant boost, especially for more premium priced products.

Increased cost of living is leading to some downtrading, particularly in the standard and lower price tiers. This is most evident in parts of Africa, Latin America and Europe.

IWSR’s analysis of the global beverage alcohol market also shows:

Beer outperforms in key markets

Global beer volumes grew +3% in 2022, buoyed by strong performance in markets including India (+38%), Vietnam (+17%), Mexico (+7%) and China (despite lockdowns), amongst others.

Beer is expected to continue to grow at just under +1% volume CAGR, 2022-2027. The two largest global beer markets, China and the US, will hold back overall growth – particularly due to

New data from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis shines light on growth sectors in the world’s beverage alcohol market…

is forecast to grow by +4% volume CAGR, 2022-2027.

volume declines at the lower-price tier of products. However, the premium+ beer segment will outperform standard-andbelow in both countries. In the US, the premium+ beer market is expected to grow by +3% volume CAGR 2022-2027 (vs -5% decline for standard-and-below). In China, premium+ beer will grow by +6% volume CAGR 2022-2027 vs 0% for lower price tiers.

More diverse consumer repertoires put pressure on lower price tiers for wine

Still wine lost volume in every top 10 market in 2022, normalising trends following the COVID-19 pandemic boost, and continuing its structural decline. The total global wine category saw volumes decline -5%, 2021-2022, and growth will

remain flat over the next five years. The value picture is more positive however, with growth evident in the premium-andabove segments (+2% volume CAGR, 2022-2027), as well as a more buoyant outlook for sparkling (+2% volume CAGR, 2022-2027). Lower price tiers for wine will suffer as younger adult wine consumers increasingly enjoy alternative alcohol options and drink higher-quality wines less frequently. The global standard-andbelow wine segment will see volumes decline by -1% volume CAGR, 2022-2027.

Mixed picture for spirits

Globally, spirits declined -2% in volume consumption in 2022, largely due to lowpriced baijiu in China. However, excluding national spirits (which includes spirits such as baijiu, soju, arrack and shochu),

the global spirits category grew +5% in volume, 2021-2022, particularly driven by whisky (+8% volume growth, 2021-2022), but also categories including rum (+9%) and brandy (+6%).

Cognac saw a 10% volume loss globally, due to declines in its two key markets of the US and China.

Gin is now in long-term decline in the key UK market, and has also lost momentum in many of its previous growth markets such as Brazil, South Africa and Australia; future gin growth will be driven by countries including the Philippines and Nigeria.

Premiumisation in whisky will be a key growth driver for the overall spirits category: the premium+ whisky segment is forecast to grow by +4% volume CAGR, 2022-2027. In India there is significant uptrading, both within Indian whisky and into Scotch and other whiskies: sales of premium Indian whisky in India will have grown six-fold between 2019 and 2027.

In the US, whisky’s ability to achieve volume growth of +2% even after significant 2021 volume gains reflects

Premiumisation in whisky will be a key growth driver for the overall spirits category: the premium+ whisky segment

STANISLAV-IVANITSKIY-UNSPLASH

MICHAEL DISCENZA-UNSPLASH

continued consumer demand. Premiumand-above segments contributed most growth to the whisky category in the US last year, and will continue on an upward trend (+4% volume CAGR, 2022-2027).

Agave spirits continue to drive sales

The demand for agave-based spirits continues, with overall category volume growth of +13%, 2021- 2022, driven by performance in the US (+12% volume growth 2021-2022). Growth in the key US market will remain pronounced (+9% volume CAGR 2022-2027), and tequila is set to overtake vodka in 2023 to become the industry leader by value in the US.

Tequila will remain a high-profile affordable luxury thanks to the number of celebrities directly involved with brand offerings, although there are early signs of a slow-down in the premiumisation trend.

Heightened consumer awareness of the category will boost agave alternatives as well – volumes of raicilla, bacanora, and sotol collectively increased by nearly 40% in the US in 2022, and will continue to grow.

Momentum in the RTD market shifts

Globally, RTDs grew +2% by volume in 2022, compared with growth of +20% volume CAGR, 2018-2021. The key US market decelerated sharply, with growth in cocktails, hard tea, and FABs (Flavoured Alcoholic Beverages), which collectively grew +14% 2021-2022, unable to offset the 10% volume decline in hard seltzers.

consumer demand and interest. After years of light-flavoured and lower-ABV offerings, there has been increased demand for full flavour and higherABV options. Innovation in zero-sugar offerings, demand for premium RTD products, a focus on spirits-based offerings, and increased distribution in the on-trade will provide growth in the US. No-alcohol beer and spirits buoyant Globally, the no-alcohol category grew +8% in 2022, and will continue on a growth trajectory of +7% volume CAGR, 2022-2027. By 2027, it is expected to command 2% volume share of the total global beverage alcohol market.

The global RTD category is expected to grow by +3% volume CAGR, 2022-2027. Top sources of future RTD growth are FABs in Japan, as well as cocktails, long drinks, FABs and hard tea in the US. RTDs are in a constant state of evolution in the US due to changing

Performance in 2022 was boosted by no-alcohol beer, which grew 8% in volume in 2022, and no-alcohol spirits, which grew almost 22% in volume (off a small base). In all key markets, around half of all alcohol drinkers say they are intending to moderate their consumption. Evolving drivers of premiumisation: the home-premise and e-commerce Staying in and drinking has a strong pull in most markets, especially driven by increased costs of going out. In the UK, for example, a third of alcohol drinkers say they would rather treat themselves to a better-quality drink at home than go out.

IWSR expects a relative shift in treating oneself to higher priced products from on-premise outlets to at-home consumption, a behaviour learnt during the pandemic. China is an outlier, with the relieving of lockdown restrictions resulting in a significant increase in going-out sentiment.

Treating oneself at-home and exploration online are both reinforcing overall premiumisation trends.

Although alcohol e-commerce sales are set to moderate over the next five years, the channel will still be a key contributor to the global market, and will reach nearly USD$40bn by 2026 across key markets. There is still a strong intention to go out amongst consumers, just with less frequency and more mindfulness in alcohol consumption and spending. Alcohol-free on-premise visits have become popular as a money-saving strategy in many markets.

For more data insights and analysis visit theiwsr.com

RTDs are in a constant state of evolution in the US due to changing consumer demand and interest.

VICTORIA-HENDZEL-UNSPLASH

thedepths Plum

Crisp days and cool nights call for dark, ripe red wines such as this selection, hand-picked by

Joelle Thomson…

RRP $17- $29.99

Giesen 0% Merlot (Non-Vintage)

RRP $17.99

Giesen

Berry fruit flavours and a dry style make for a positive, medium-bodied alcohol-removed Merlot. It is a more convincing alcoholremoved red than most that I have tried from a wide range of countries where winemakers are experimenting with this growing category. Bravo Giesen, for spearheading this brave new style of wine. 16.5/20

2018 Piqueras Valcanto Syrah

RRP $18.99

Mucho Gusto Wine Co.

This wine is exceptional value for money, with its depths of spicy, dark-fruited Syrah flavours. Aged for six months in American oak, it is a wine with complexity and length. Drinks well now and can hold for the next two to three years, but why would you? Certified organic. 17/20

2021 Lake Chalice Falcon Syrah

RRP $19.99

Hancocks

Syrah is proving to be sensationally well-suited to New Zealand and although it is better known from the north, here’s a South Island version that delivers big time. Spicy, peppery notes are balanced by the fruity appeal of fleshy red plum flavours. 17.5/20

2022 Delta Hawke's Bay Merlot

RRP $20

Black Market

Evocatively named after a vineyard on a river delta, this wine is smooth, light-bodied and full of red berry flavours; everything Merlot lovers look for and enjoy. 16.5/20

2020 Squawking Magpie The Chatterer Syrah

RRP $24.99

Squawking Magpie

A fantastic wine and a complete surprise when its price is revealed. This is a bold, deep, dark Syrah with amazing complexity and savoury aromas leading into a powerful, dark-fruited red wine that drinks well now and can most definitely last the distance for some years to come. 18.5/20

2019 Lake Chalice The Raptor Syrah

RRP $24.99

Hancocks

Deep ruby in colour with bold, rich aromas of plums steeped in brandy, and lightly aged with oak influence to add a softening effect and rounded body. 16.5/20

2020 Esk Valley Artisanal Syrah

RRP $24.99

Esk Valley

A spicy little number from Hawke’s Bay winemaker Gordon Russell that provides a lot of flavour for $25. He ages the wine for 17 months in French oak in a combination of 228 litre, 500 litre and 600 litre puncheons, all of which build smoothness and complexity into this dark and plummy wine. 17.5/20

2020 Squawking Magpie The Chatterer Syrah is a bold, deep, dark Syrah with amazing complexity and savoury aromas.

2020 Esk Valley Artisanal Malbec

Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon

RRP $24.99

Esk Valley

This wine is Incredibly good value for money and the most affordable of the top 12 Gimblett Gravels Annual Vintage Selection wines for 2020. This blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is deep in colour and multi-layered in taste. A wine for now, or will hold well for four to five years, potentially longer. 18.5/20

2021 Matahiwi Syrah

RRP $24.99

Grey Beard Trading

A spicy, medium-bodied Syrah from Matahiwi Estate in the northern Wairarapa where winemaker Miles Dineen uses grapes from Hawke’s Bay, just two hours up the road. This wine delivers fabulous value for money.

16.5/20

2021 Yalumba Samuel’s Collection

Barossa Shiraz

RRP $26

Negociants

A warm climate Shiraz with ripe plum fruit flavours and spicy notes captured in a medium body with lovely richness. Excellent drinkability now or will hold and evolve for up to five years.

17.5/20

2020 Mission Reserve Syrah

RRP $27.99

Mission Estate

A fabulous Syrah from a great, dry, warm vintage and the excellent soils of the stony Gimblett Gravels Winegrowing District in Hawke’s Bay. This wine has ripe, fleshy, dark plum flavours, peppery spice aromas and a long, full-bodied finish. 17.5/20

RRP $30 to $39.99

2020 Spy Valley Syrah Marlborough

RRP $32.99

Red+White Cellar

Warm, spicy and with deep, ripe plummy flavours, this is an impressive Marlborough take on Syrah. The grapes in this wine were grown on the north-facing Outpost Vineyard in the Omaka Valley. The fruit was hand-picked and plunged daily during fermentation to extract depth of colour and flavour. The wine was aged for 20 months in barrel, which adds a softness and rounded body. It drinks well now and can easily age for a further four to five years. 17.5/20

2020 Pegasus Bay Merlot Cabernet

RRP $34.99

EuroVintage

A deliciously dark and complex blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from North Canterbury, where long, dry autumns can offer up ripe, rich, dark flavours. Add great winemaking into the mix and here is an exceptional value red that drinks beautifully now and can age further. 18.5/20

2022 Cambridge Rosso

RRP $35

The Invisible Agency

Beauty in a bottle and so delicious. This is 100% Syrah from Hawke’s Bay grapes that were trucked down to Martinborough winery Cambridge Road, where one of the region’s most innovative winemakers, Lance Redgwell, pressed them into a medium-bodied red. It’s soft, smooth and has a complex touch of spice, earthiness and a lingering finish. 17.5/20

2020 Mission Reserve Syrah is a fabulous wine from a great, dry, warm vintage and the excellent soils of the stony Gimblett Gravels Winegrowing District.

2019 Terrace Edge North Canterbury Syrah

RRP $35.99

Wine2Trade

A spicy cool climate Syrah from a warm, dry vineyard site on the banks of the Waipara River in North Canterbury. This wine is made in relatively small volumes and rocks a delicious flavour combination of ripe juicy plum, a hint of pepper and a lovely note of cedar and oak in the background. 17.5/20

2020 Craggy Range Syrah

Gimblett Gravels

RRP $35.99

Vintners

Syrah is the second most popular red grape in Hawke’s Bay after Merlot and is fast emerging as the great red of the Bay. The majority (70%) of the grapes in this wine were hand-picked and 18% were whole bunch fermented to add structure and depth of spicy flavour to this satisfyingly complex wine, which delivers big time on flavour, especially at this price. It was aged in French oak, 25% new, for 14 months.  17.5/20

2020 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz

RRP $36

Negociants

An inspiring deep ruby Shiraz from the heart of the Barossa Valley in South Australia – the world headquarters of Shiraz. This is inky, dark and juicy with incredible depth of flavour and jammy characters leading into a structured wine with body, length and potential longevity of up to a decade. 18.5/20

2020 Saint Clair Pioneer Block 17

Plateau Merlot

RRP $37.99

Negociants

Family-owned and -operated Saint Clair Family Estate is well known for its pioneering range of wines that over-deliver on taste, body and value. This is a big, plump Merlot that offers up beautiful ripe flavours and a full body. 17.5/20

2021 Jenny Dobson Doris Merlot

RRP $37.99

Jenny Dobson Wines

This juicy blend of grapes is named after Doris, the grandmother of winemaker Jenny Dobson. It has been entirely Merlot in previous vintages but this particular release is also blended with Cabernet Franc and Malbec to create a bolder and deeper wine with a full body and toasted plum flavours. Beautifully fragrant and delicious. 17.5/20

2020 Fromm Syrah

RRP $38

Negociants

This wine is a rarity: a Syrah from Marlborough; something of a novelty in a wine region so strongly devoted to whites. This spicy, fullbodied and deeply coloured Syrah has superb depth of flavour and a long, fresh finish. 17.5/20

2021 Cambridge Road Flow Syrah

RRP $39.99

The Invisible Agency

Martinborough winemaker Lance Redgwell buys grapes from Stonecroft Vineyard in Hawke’s Bay and treats them to a combo of fermentations, including carbonic maceration to kickstart the winemaking process and elevate the fragrant dark fruit flavours in this wine. A portion of wild yeast fermentation builds body and layers of complexity into this smooth, silky Syrah. 18.5/20

2020 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz is an inspiring deep ruby Shiraz from the heart of the Barossa Valley in South Australia.

2019 Giesen Organic Syrah

RRP $39.99

Giesen

Marlborough is more naturally adept at producing impressive, early-ripening Pinot Noir than late-ripening Syrah, but this spicy style puts the region’s best foot forward in a medium-bodied wine. Flavoursome dark plum notes combine with depth and complexity as well as great length of flavour. 17.5/20

2021 Smith & Sheth Cru

Heretaunga Syrah

RRP $39.99

Negociants

This is one of Hawke’s Bay’s best Syrahs, with its dark blackberry flavours, spicy liquorice aromas and taut, impressive structure. It drinks well now and can age superbly for up to a decade, potentially longer. A great red from a great wine region. 18.5/20

RRP $40 to $49.99

2020 Paritua Syrah

RRP $41.99

Mineral

A power-packed Syrah with aromas of smoky oak and intense blackberry that lead into flavours of blackberry, plum, complex spice and white pepper, balanced by fine-grained tannins, and a hint of smoky oak. 18/20

2021 Easthope Family

Winegrowers Syrah

RRP $43.99

Dhall & Nash

This is the first Syrah from Rod and Emma Easthope, winemakers and lovers of Syrah, who have modelled this wine on the great Syrahs of France’s Northern Rhône Valley. A wine with great complexity and weight underpinned by structured depth from 100% whole bunch fermentation. 18.5/20

2020 Trinity Hill Syrah Gimblett

Gravels Black Label

RRP $44.99

Hancocks

This is a great wine from the great 2020 vintage, which was a warm, dry year in which grapes were in optimal condition and a dark, plummy wine is the result. This drinks beautifully now but has impressive structure, body and length to last the distance of a decade or more in a good cellar. 18.5/20

Spy Valley S Block Syrah NV

RRP $45

Red+White Cellar

Impressive in every way: from its colour, aroma and flavour, to the great label. This wine has already been aged for five years in the winery’s cool, dark cellars, where it has gained deep, complex flavours of dark plum, liquorice and spice. 17.5/20

2021 Fromm Merlot/Malbec

RRP $45

Negociants

Deep in colour and flavour with spicy aromas, dense, dark fruit and a full body. This quirky blend of dark red grapes is usually found from hotter climates, but it shows that both Merlot and Malbec can prove their mettle in Marlborough. 17/20

2019 Luna Blue Rock

Martinborough Syrah

RRP $47.99

EuroVintage

There’s lots to love in this cool climate Syrah from the Blue Rock Vineyard, which was planted south of Martinborough township in 1997 on a steep north-facing slope. The sun shines here all day and the wind also makes itself felt, reducing grapes to a small size with concentrated flavours of clove, peppery spice and black plum. 18/20

2021 Easthope Family

Winegrowers Syrah is the first Syrah from Rod and Emma Easthope, who have modelled it on the great Syrahs of France’s Northern Rhône Valley.

2019

RRP $48.99

Redmetal Vineyards

Winemaker Grant Edmonds crafts this deliciously dark-fruited and complex Syrah. It has subtle floral characters along with slightly more muscular tannins that define this elegant and complex wine. Finely balanced, it will develop over the next seven to eight years in the bottle. 18.5/20

RRP $50 and above

2019

RRP $55.99

Giesen

Giesen’s multi-award winning Clayvin Syrah is named for the hillside vineyard that was the first to be planted with grapes in Marlborough. The site is devoted mostly to Pinot Noir with smaller amounts of Syrah (and a little Chardonnay) and this is consistently one of Marlborough’s best expressions of a dark, fullbodied red wine. Aromas of plum, cinnamon and nutmeg combine with a powerful palate with great structure from the inclusion of whole bunches in the ferment. 17.5/20

2019

RRP $150

Mission Estate

This is Mission Estate’s highest expression of Syrah – a spicy, deep ruby hued-wine with peppery aromas and ripe plum, fleshy fruit aromas. The wine is named for Brother Cyprian Huchet, who became the first winemaker in New Zealand at Mission Estate in 1871. 18.5/20

Reserve

RRP $65

Negociants

The 800+ hectares of stony soils in Hawke’s Bay known as the Gimblett Gravels provide exceptional growing conditions for Syrah, where it soaks up the sun. This wine boasts deeply spicy, peppery flavours and bold fresh, rich, fruity notes with a full body and long finish. Impressive. 18.5/20

2019

RRP $84.99

Radburnd Cellars

Kate Radburnd brings out the best in Syrah in this velvety, silky, red- and dark-fruited wine with great juicy appeal for drinking now. Smooth flavours are derived from a portion of foot stomping and whole bunch fermentation. This is a special wine, and tastes like it. 19/20

2021

RRP $179.99

Vintners

RRP $81.99

B Wine

A dark, peppery and appealingly spicy aromatic Syrah from the northern Wairarapa’s Lynfer Vineyard. Grapes with intense flavours of rich black plum were all hand-picked and destemmed with fermentation and maceration in stainless steel for 14 days. The wine was aged in 228 litre French oak barrels for 12 months. 18.5/20

Le Sol is one of New Zealand’s best reds, especially from vintages such as 2021, which was dry and warm, resulting in small grapes and powerful wines. This one was aged for 27 months in French oak barriques, which add smoothness and depth. It’s a keeper for at least a decade. 19/20 For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 86.

Redmetal Basket Press Syrah

Giesen Clayvin Syrah

Mission Huchet Syrah

2021 Saint Clair Gimblett Gravels

Syrah

2021 B Wine Syrah Wairarapa

Radburnd Syrah

Craggy Range Le Sol

Giesen’s multi-award winning Clayvin Syrah is consistently one of Marlborough’s best expressions of a dark, full-bodied red wine.

Top Picks

Five great wines from top producers, selected by Joelle Thomson

RRP $45.99

Negociants

What’s the best thing about great sparkling wine? It has the complexity of an old wine, but tastes as fresh as a daisy, that’s what. And this exceptional museum release from Nautilus is an excellent example. Aged for 10 years on tirage (yeast lees in the bottle), it retains a deep sense of freshness aligned with the rich flavour development that a decade in bottle provides. The grapes in this wine were all hand-picked from three vineyards in Marlborough and fermented with a champagne yeast with full malolactic fermentation to add softness and complexity. This wine is unashamedly modelled on Bollinger Special Cuvée and accordingly, it typically contains 5-15% of reserve wine from previous vintages. This blend is 73% Pinot Noir and 27% Chardonnay. Limited volumes of this museum release were made and at this price it is nothing short of an absolute steal. 19/20

Hawke’s Bay

RRP $39.99

Maxim Wines

Maxim Wines is a relatively new, relatively small producer in Hawke’s Bay. It’s owned by winemaker Darragh Hughes who specialises in Chenin Blanc and Syrah, which will come from a 5.5-hectare vineyard that he is now leasing in the Bay. This Chenin shows everything that is great about this classic French white grape variety, with its fresh white floral aromas underpinned by notes of ripe peach, green apple and citrus. Pronounced but balanced acidity adds drive and length to each succulent sip of this wine. It is drinking well now and could age for up to and beyond a decade.

18/20

Stone Pony Wines

This is a deliciously complex expression of the two most important red grapes in north west Italy – Barbera and Nebbiolo – at 70/30 respectively. It is clean, earthy, complex and juicy as hell. This six-year-old red still has time up its sleeve but it is drinking so deliciously well right now, why wait? 17.5/20

RRP $104.99

Felton Road

MacMuir is the first new single vineyard Pinot Noir in 15 years to be introduced to the already highly collectable Felton Road stable of wines. It was first made from 2021 and is an incredibly impressive Pinot Noir with commanding, powerful, full-bodied flavours highlighting the difference that even a few metres can make to a wine’s style. The MacMuir Vineyard was originally part of the Calvert Vineyard block on Felton Road but has now been separated into its own site, where it expresses a darker side of Pinot Noir with intense ripe plum and cherry aromas leading into a silky textural wine with a long life ahead.

18.5/20

Pinot Noir

RRP $44.99

Cambridge Road

This silky new release Pinot Noir is named after the late Ted Wilde, the co-owner of Cirrus Vineyard south of Martinborough village, which is home to the grapes in this wine. The vineyard is managed by Cambridge Road winemaker-owner, Lance Redgwell, who saw great potential from the 2022 vintage and produced this exceptional Pinot Noir as a result. It is a complex but youthful red and dark-fruited take on Pinot Noir with a long life ahead. Decant before serving. 18/20

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 86.

Nautilus Marlborough Cuvée Brut Museum Release NV

2022 Maxim Wines Chenin Blanc

2017 Maretti Langhe Rosso

RRP $28.99

2022 Felton Road MacMuir Pinot Noir

2022 Cambridge Road Wilde One

MacMuir is the first new single vineyard Pinot Noir in 15 years to be introduced to the already highly collectable Felton Road stable of wines.

BRING ON THE NIGHT

LET GO AND FEEL

Joelle Thomson Journalist, wine writer and author joellethomson.com

The Paris of the Middle East

Great new vintages from Lebanon’s Chateau Musar are ripe for discovery, as Joelle Thomson explains…

LEBANON. FAMOUS for delicious food, intricate architecture, ancient castles, ski fields and inflation that makes the Great Depression look like a walk in the park.

Food shortages, electricity blackouts for up to 23 hours a day, struggling health and education systems, a fuel crisis, water shortages and 90% erosion of the country’s currency since 2019 all combine to make life tough in this country, which also happens to have one of the longest winemaking histories on earth, stretching back 6,000 years.

In amongst all the trials and tribulations, Lebanon’s most famous winery, Chateau Musar, remains defiantly

resemblance to the non-traditional blends made by Musar today.

Its wines remind me most strongly of a hybrid style of top quality Côtes du Rhône and very good wine from Piemonte in north west Italy. There is an earthiness aligned with powerful red fruit flavours, only without the tartness that is often present with that flavour spectrum.

The vineyards of Chateau Musar represent a style that expresses the place in which they grow. The high altitude climate in the Beqaa Valley makes it one of the coldest areas in Lebanon. Days are warm, nights are cool and rainfall is extremely low with 230 millimetres a year.

Beqaa Valley in 1929 using French grape varieties, and today Chateau Musar has about 180 hectares of vines. By way of comparison, Lebanon’s biggest wine producer has about 2,500 hectares of producing vineyard land, which is about half the size of Hawke’s Bay’s vineyard area.

Try these…

2019 Chateau Musar Hochar

Père et Fils Red

RRP $52.99

A complex blended red with silky texture, lots of delicious layers of flavour and more time up its sleeve.

2020 Musar Jeune Red

RRP $43.99

strong and producing outstanding maverick wines, several of which are now available in New Zealand through distributor Negociants NZ.

These latest wines were shown to small groups from the local wine trade in New Zealand earlier this year and were fantastic.

Chateau Musar is one of the world’s most inspiring wine producers right now because it continues to make incredible wines from classic French grape varieties that defy all the typical descriptions of Syrah, Cinsault, Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon. They must confound winemakers in countries such as France and Italy, whose wines bear the strongest

The valley is the country’s most important farming region and is situated 40 kilometres east of Lebanon’s capital, Beirut. Chateau Musar’s home is an old castle in Ghazir, just north of Beirut and a couple of hours’ drive from the vineyards.

Beirut was once described as “the Paris of the Middle East” and the country’s wines live up to all that suggests. Let’s hope the country also returns to its former glory.

The story of Chateau Musar Musar was founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar Snr, who trained in winemaking in Bordeaux and was inspired by the 6,000-year history of winemaking in Lebanon. He planted his first vines in the

A deeply satisfying red blend now and with great structure for further ageing.

2016 Chateau Musar

RRP $86.99

This seven-year-old wine is the top red from Chateau Musar and is incredibly complex now with lots of ageing potential.

Larack du Musar

500ml RRP $89.99

A Lebanese speciality: distilled grape spirit flavoured with aniseed.

Chateau Musar wines are available through Negociants NZ. At the time of writing, the latest vintages were scheduled to arrive in New Zealand in late July.

Chateau Musar, just north of Beirut, is one of the world’s most inspiring wine producers right now.

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Man O’ War Vineyards

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Wairarapa Trophy Winner

Holly South Series

Pinot Noir 2021

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

Buy today

Matahiwi.co.nz

Yealands Chief Winemaker wins top trophy at IWC 2023

YEALANDS WINES Chief Winemaker Natalie Christensen has won the coveted White Winemaker of the Year Trophy at the International Wine Challenge (IWC) 2023.

The IWC is one of the world’s most respected and influential wine competitions. It announced its five Winemakers of the Year and highest scoring wines of the 2023 competition in mid-July. Yealands also won 12 medals (one for every wine it entered) and the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Trophy for the Yealands Estate Single Block S1 Sauvignon Blanc 2022.

Christensen said the win, the first for a New Zealander since 2008, was humbling. “The IWC is hugely competitive, and I was up against some incredible winemakers from wineries that are hundreds of years old. Yealands is so young in comparison! Marlborough is well known for its Sauvignon Blanc, but to have a range of varietals performing so well in shows is really meaningful as it shows the breadth of our winemaking ability outside of our flagship Sauv.”

IWC Winemakers of the Year 2023

Sparkling Winemaker of the Year

Emilien Boutillat, Rare Champagne (France)

Red Winemaker of the Year

Rafael Urrejola, Viña Undurraga (Chile)

White Winemaker of the Year

Natalie Christensen, Yealands Wine Group (NZ)

Sweet Winemaker of the Year

Hans Tschida, Angerhof Tschida (Austria)

Fortified Winemaker of the Year

Marcos Alguacil, Bodegas Osborne (Spain)

IWC 2023 Wines judged “Best in Show”

IWC Champion Sparkling Wine (France)

Rare Champagne Millésime 2008

IWC Champion Red Wine (France)

Edouard Delaunay Chambertin Grand Cru Rouge 2020

IWC Champion White Wine (France)

Michel Tissot & Fils Château-Chalon Vin

Jaune 2015

IWC Champion Sweet Wine (Germany)

Weingut Hans Wirsching Iphöfer JuliusEchter-Berg Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese 2021

IWC Champion Fortified Wine (Spain)

Bodegas Fernando De Castilla Oloroso Singular

International Malbec Trophy (Argentina)

Huentala Calizo Carmin Block 3 2020

International Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy (Australia) Paragon Wine Estates

Riddoch The Pastoralist Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

International Riesling Trophy (Austria) Winzer Krems Eg Kremser Kreuzberg Riesling Kremstal Dac Reserve 2021

International Sauvignon Blanc Trophy (Austria) Weingut Schneeberger Sauvignon Blanc Kittenberg Südsteiermark 2021

International Syrah Trophy (NZ)

Giesen Single Vineyard Clayvin Syrah 2021

Organic Trophy (NZ)

Greystone Wines, Greystone Chardonnay 2021

Sustainable Trophy, International Chardonnay Trophy (South Africa) Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2021

Best Wine in First Year of Production (England) Lympstone Manor Estate Triassic Pinot Noir 2020

Full results are available at internationalwinechallenge.com

Natalie Christensen

TUKU Māori Winemakers Collective marks five years

THE WORLD’S first collective of indigenous Māori wine producers, TUKU, marked its fifth year in July and is working to welcome new members and connect with other indigenous winemakers around the world.

Founding members Steve Bird (Steve Bird Wines), Hayden Johnston (Kuru Kuru & Tarras Wines), Haysley MacDonald (te Pā Family Vineyards), and Royce McKean (Tiki Wines & Vineyards) export their wines across the world, with domestic presence as well, and have created a platform through TUKU to tell the stories and significance of indigenous Māori wine producers on the world stage.

Over the past five years, TUKU has supplied wines to high profile events and secured coverage in key publications such as Wine Enthusiast, jancisrobinson.com, Harper’s Wine & Spirits, BBC Travel, and Singapore Airlines’ KrisWorld magazine.

Members have also provided consultation and insight into high level Government strategy and global

agreements like the Free Trade Agreement with the UK, and He Kai Kei Aku Ringa: The Crown-Māori Economic Growth Partnership Strategy.

The Collective says it has had inquiries from a number of respected winemakers with Māori heritage and is also reaching

out to other wine-producing regions around the world, starting with Canada, to connect with indigenous winemakers to share knowledge and create an informal network of support and cultural learning.

tuku.nz

Founding members of TUKU Māori Winemakers Collective

Major scholarship for Akld wine professional

AUCKLAND-BASED WINE professional Ina Yoon (DipWSET) is one of ten winners of a 2023 Golden Vines® Wine Scholar Guild Scholarship – an international programme judged by a panel of five leading wine professionals, including Jancis Robinson OBE MW.

The Scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the Taylor’s Port Golden Vines® Diversity Scholarship Judging Panel to “outstanding applicants whom the judges wish to recognise, encourage and aid on their educational path”. The Scholars can undertake their choice of the Wine Scholar Guild’s advanced French, Spanish or Italian Wine Scholar Certification Programs, to deepen their expertise in some of the world’s most

interesting wine regions as they continue their career progression.

Originally from South Korea, Ina Yoon studied a Bachelor of International Hospitality Management and a Bachelor of Business in New Zealand, also studying in Bordeaux, France. She then completed the WSET Level 3 certificate and WSET Level 4 diploma at the New Zealand School of Wine and Spirits under Jane Skilton MW.

Yoon now runs her own online specialist wine business, New Zealand Wine Boutique and shares her passion for

New Zealand wines on her site The Wine

Kiwi: The Contemporary New Zealand Wine Review. “I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire other wine professionals who may look like me and help to change the perspectives of the traditional wine industry, promoting more diversity throughout our industry,” says Yoon.

Yoon has begun teaching WSET courses in Korean at the New Zealand School of Wines & Spirits and is preparing for the Master of Wine entry exam.

The greatest wines come from the greatest land.

Southern Tor - Pinot Noir 2021

NZIWS 2022 – Gold Medal

Decanter World Wine Awards 2023 – Gold Medal

IWC London 2023 –

• Trophy, Alexandra Pinot Noir

• Gold Medal

• 96 Points

Ina Yoon

Graham Norton and Invivo toast ten years

THE CO-FOUNDERS of GN wines caught up in Ireland in July to celebrate a decade of collaboration on their awardwinning wine and spirits range.

Graham Norton and Invivo co-founders Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron toasted the milestone at Arundels-on-thePier pub in Norton’s hometown of Ahakista in West Cork as they held their tenth tasting and blending session to create the 2023 blend of ‘GN’ Sauvignon Blanc.

Norton is a shareholder of Invivo and tastes and blends each new vintage of wine with Lightbourne and Cameron in a session that they record and release every year for people to watch.

“It’s surreal thinking that our little collaboration together started out all those years ago with just one New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and is now all over the world with ten wines and spirits,” said Norton. “I don’t just put my name to the wines, I’m happy to be so involved and I love being part of the process.”

The range of wines and spirits is now available in ten countries and at every major supermarket and liquor group in New Zealand, Ireland and most major retailers in the UK.

Entry reminder for NZIWS

ENTRIES FOR the New Zealand International Wine Show are open until Friday 1 September, with samples due by the following Friday 8 September. Since its inception in 2005, the NZIWS has been the largest wine judging competition in the country. Chief Judge, Bob Campbell MW (ranked as the most experienced wine judge in New Zealand) will be joined by a formidable team of assistant chief judges in Larry McKenna, John Hancock, Tony Bish and 20 senior judges. Judging will take place in mid-September with medal results announced in late September and Trophies awarded at a gala event in Auckland on Friday 13 October.

For entry details visit nziws.co.nz

by AWARD WINNING SYRAH

Luxury packaging win for Mission’s Huchet

MISSION ESTATE’S award-winning Huchet Syrah has won the award for Best Luxury Package Design at the 2023 Packwine Awards in Australia.

Now in its third year, the Awards recognise the best product designs in the wine industry across Australia and New Zealand.

Designed by Sara Fraser at Sartoria Creative, the packaging for Huchet Syrah required an elegant solution honouring Mission’s heritage and the work of its pioneering winemaker Brother Cyprian Huchet, and the premium price point of its top tier wines.

Fraser says the label features impeccable craftsmanship. “Print finishes and embellishments feature sculpted 3D embossing on the angel wings (a symbol of Brother Cyprian and his devotion to winemaking), two foils in pearl and gold, a premium textured uncoated label stock and gloss high-build, requiring two passes and an uncompromising attention to detail on the printing press.”

New World Wine Awards 2023 underway

MORE THAN 1,200 wines from over 130 local and overseas wineries and distributors have been judged in the 2023 New World Wine Awards – with zero alcohol entries nearly doubling.

The top-ranked wines will be announced in the New World Wine Awards Top 50 under $25 and stocked in New World stores nationwide.

Judging took place at the beginning of August and organisers say that around a quarter of the wines entered were from the 2023 vintage.

This year’s competition has also seen an increase in non-alcoholic entries. “The zero alcohol entry classes are a great example of where industry innovation and consumer demand meet, and after a couple of slow and steady years, entries almost doubled in 2023,” says Co-Chair of Judges Jen Parr, who leads the judging team alongside Co-Chair Sam Kim.

The judges tasted nearly 50 zero alcohol wines, assessing each entry twice – once alongside wines of the same variety, and again in a zero-alcohol only flight.

Full results will be announced in October.

More on-premise venues tap into wine in kegs

AS HOSPITALITY businesses face rising costs, staff pressures and a growing consumer focus on sustainability, more and more are turning to wine in kegs as a simple, cost-effective, environmentally conscious and quality alternative to bottled wine.

Kegged wine served on tap is now a common sight at bars and restaurants across New Zealand, but had smaller beginnings pre-COVID as a way for natural wines (wine often made without preservatives) to be served by the glass without the worry of spoilage. The natural wines retained their freshness in keg and poured to a consistently high quality over long periods.

It soon became clear that kegs would work well for other wines too, and Dan

Gillett of Wine Diamonds, which offers New Zealand’s largest range of wines on tap, says businesses have been quick to see the upsides.

“There wasn’t much interest in wine on tap when we first launched in 2019, but as our range has grown, so has the demand,” says Gillett. “The fact is, wine from keg pours better than wine from a bottle. There’s no oxidation, at all, so every glass is the same as the next.

“We even have 2 Hat restaurants serving our wines on tap, and hospitality groups starting with one venue and then putting taps in across the groups because they quickly see the benefits.”

And those benefits are significant: a 20L keg holds around 27 bottles of wine and every glass pours to a consistently high

standard with no spoilage, and no waste from part bottles. Kegs also eliminate a huge amount of packaging, diverting it from landfill and saving on recycling costs.

For consumers, kegs cancel the risk of a corked bottle or ‘stale’ pour and come with the knowledge that it’s a more sustainable alternative to bottled wine.

Since its early days offering only natural wines, Wine Diamonds now has close to 40 different wines in keg in a wide variety of styles.

Gillett says Prosecco is their most popular wine and a great example of how wine on tap can help streamline a venue's operations. “It can be connected onto a standard beer line system set-up and poured easily,” he explains. “Staff can get really tied up popping bottles, pouring drinks, or even making cocktails, and Prosecco on tap makes it so much faster.”

With more venues switching to wines in keg, Wine Diamonds also offers tap installations, service and support, keg deliveries and pick-ups alongside its range of wines.

More than just a trend, wine in keg is a practical solution for hospo operators who want quality, cost efficiencies and speed, and for customers seeking more sustainable choices from wine lists.

Mission Estate

Embracethechill

Get the latest winter beer and cider releases into your fridges and onto your drinks lists…

Beer

Speight’s Summit Alcohol Free

<0.5% ABV, 330ml 12-pack RRP $21.99

Lion

The no-alcohol category continues its steady growth, as does the low-calorie class. Here’s a lager that fits both bills with <0.5% ABV and only 58 calories per serving. It looks just like the classic Summit in the clear glass bottle and has the same fresh, light malts and subtle hops. This version has a little more sweetness than the original but still retains the clean, crisp finish. A great addition to the fridge for the punters looking for no-alc alternatives.

Sawmill Blackcurrant Sour

4.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Sawmill Brewery

Sawmill’s new Blackcurrant Sour is a fruited Gose-style beer that pops almost as much as its abstract Pop Art can. In the glass, it’s a vibrant deep purpley-red and the blackcurrant and lime in this sharp sour make it tart and refreshing.

Parrotdog Black

5% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $24.99

Parrotdog

This easy-drinking stout has joined the core range line-up from Wellington brewers Parrotdog. It’s a smooth, and full-flavoured stout with balanced bitterness. Pouring deepest black in the glass, it has a refined roasted malt character and a hint of chocolate.

Sprig + Fern Summertime

Somewhere Hazy

5.1% ABV, 440ml RRP $7.99 Sprig + Fern

Nelson brewers Sprig + Fern are hanging out for summer with this limited release pale ale. A hazy melange of Riwaka and a Pink Boots blend of Loral, HBC 586 and Ekuanot hops, the glass is full of big tropical, floral, citrus and stone fruit flavours. As the brewers say, “…take a sip and step into the sunshine – it’s Summertime Somewhere.”

Zeelandt Kaiser Garcia

5.1% ABV, 440ml RRP $7.99 – also in keg Zeelandt Brewery Germany meets Mexico in this smooth-drinking lager made with malted maize from Hawke’s Bay brewery Zeelandt. A seasonal limited release, it has a clean lager character, with spicy hop flavour and a fairly dry, crisp finish. Medium bodied, with a gentle creaminess.

Zeelandt Brunhilde’s Fate

5.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99 – also in keg

Zeelandt Brewery

Zeelandt’s new limited release seasonal take on a German smoked beer (Rauchbier) is a medium body smooth lager, with a rich creamy head. Malty with a toasty richness, balanced beechwood smoke flavour and a dry finish.

Emporium Foxes Tears ESB

5.7% ABV – available in keg

Emporium Brewing

Hailing from Kaikōura, Emporium is renowned for moving outside the regular craft reliance on IPAs and the like, and instead delving into Belgian styles, stouts and sours. Its new Foxes Tears Extra Special Bitter is a welcome take on the classic British style, with hops and malt vying for attention. The ‘Foxes Tears’ in question are the tears of a Leicester football fan: the Foxes won the whole thing in 2016 and were relegated this year. The sweet and the bitter.

Sprig + Fern Wintertime Elsewhere

Cold IPA

5.9% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.49

Sprig + Fern

Sprig + Fern’s counterpart to its Summertime

Somewhere is its Cold IPA, Wintertime

Elsewhere. Whereas the Summertime brew is hazy and tropical, with Wintertime they have gone all-American with a mix of Yakima Chief Citra and Sabro hops. This Cold IPA has stone fruit flavours and a hint of herbs and citrus that is as crisp as fresh fallen snow.

Bootleg Brewery Matangi Fruits

Hazy IPA

6% ABV, 500ml RRP $11.99 – also in keg

Bootleg Brewery

There are some great hazy IPAs on the market currently and with Bootleg’s Matangi Fruits we just got one more. The milky depths contain juicy fruit flavours and that delicious, soft hazy mouthfeel. Showcasing Simcoe, Amarillo, and Idaho 7 hops, this is an ale that would pair well with a cold meat selection, pickles and cheeses.

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

Sprig + Fern are hanging out for summer with limited release pale ale Summertime Somewhere.

Sawmill Hazy White IPA

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Sawmill Brewery

A white IPA is a combination of a hoppy IPA and a wheat-based Belgian witbier. Sawmill have brought their brewing acumen to bear on the style and produced a hazy number that has juicy and fruity flavours with a smooth mouthfeel and refreshing finish.

Pacific Coast Seafoam Hazy IPA

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

Seafoam is a hazy IPA absolutely layered with hop flavours. Pouring like a Mangawhai beach after a winter storm, this is a turbulent, cloudy drop with a thin white foam. The Idaho 7 and Galaxy hops have created an oily, resinous hop character with tropical fruits up-front and citrus and vine fruits toward the end.

Bach Brewing Stone Age Nomad

Hazy IPA

6.7% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Bach Brewing

Bach Brewing pays tribute to our cave-dwelling ancestors and the eventual creation of beer as a social refreshment in this new Hazy IPA. Noting the introduction of hops to brewing in the Middle Ages, Bach has loaded Stone Age Nomad with Nectaron, Motueka, Citra and Mosaic hops. A delicious drop full of stone fruit, Mojito lime, and tropical fruit notes.

Sawmill Evergreen West Coast IPA

6.7% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.49

Sawmill Brewery

Arriving in a big, beautiful green can, this is a belter of an ale from Matakana brewery Sawmill, north of Auckland. It has bold aromas from a myriad of punchy hops and plenty of bitterness. Would pair exceptionally well with burgers and barbecued meats.

Badass Beverages Tall Tales Maibock

Lager

7.3% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Badass Beverages

Based on the legend of the ‘Wolpertinger’ – a rabbit/squirrel/deer/pheasant mash-up said to be found in the forests of southern Germany –Badass’s Tall Tales is a modern maibock lager. A maibock is traditionally paler and hoppier than other bocks (strong, dark lagers) and Tall Tales is in this vein. At 7.3% ABV it is a deep golden drop with a rich maltiness and a delightful interplay of German malts and fruity German and New Zealand hops. Recommended.

Parrotdog Limited Release #03 – West Coast IPA

7.3% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Parrotdog

This West Coast IPA is such a new release from Parrotdog that we couldn’t get hold of a sample or even tasting notes before we went to print – but suffice to say it’s part of their Limited Release series which is: “inspired by the nice ideas captured in our brewery”. Each release is a one-off, so move quickly.

Beverages

Parrotdog Limited Release #04 –Blueberry & Mango Double Sour

7.3% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Parrotdog

The fourth in Parrotdog’s Limited Release series and (alas) too new for us to get our hands on before print. Sounds absolutely delicious though and we will be hunting it out.

Pacific Coast Daybreak California IPA

7.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99 – also in keg

Pacific Coast

Daybreak is a collaboration between Pacific Coast Brewery from Mangawhai and Laguna Beach Beer Company from Orange County, California, who both share a Pacific coast (though from opposite sides). The IPA pours bright and golden and has a punchy flavour profile with subtle fruits and lots of citrus. It also has a real fridge-pleasing can – a beautiful tangerine design that catches the eye and screams of the summer to come.

Bootleg Brewery Late Night Monk Fight - Belgian Quadruple

8.6% ABV, 500ml RRP $11.99 – also in keg

Bootleg Brewery

Named in the influential New World Top 30 Beer and Cider Awards this year, this is a full-on Belgian Quadruple from the team at Bootleg Brewery in Matangi, Waikato. Pouring rich and dark in the glass, there are flavours of cherry, raisin and caramel. It’s a strong and fruity number with a sweet and spicy finish. At 8.6% it certainly has that Belgian abbey alcohol content you’d expect, but it’s not as gasketblowing as some quadruples can get.

Badass

Tall Tales Maibock Lager is a deep golden drop with a rich maltiness and a delightful interplay of German malts and fruity German and New Zealand hops.

CIDER

Good George Blueberry and Apple Cider

4% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $23 – out September

Good George

Hamilton brewers Good George have harnessed the power of Hawke’s Bay blueberries and blended them with Waikato apples for a cider that is light, zingy and super refreshing. Pouring bright and pink, it has aromas of berries and crisp apple. The flavour profile is medium dry with a refreshing finish and acidity.

Good George Strawberry Daiquiri Cider

4.5% ABV, 946ml RRP $15.99 – out September

Good George

Inspired by the classic cocktail, Good George’s Strawberry Daiquiri Cider has a big, juicy strawberry flavour set upon a hint of background citrus. It’s bright red in the glass with strong strawberry and lime on the nose, and a juicy and sweet flavour profile.

Peckham’s Spiced Apple

5.1% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99

Peckham’s Cider

A Peckham’s traditional barrel-aged cider has been infused with spices and orange zest to create this deliciously spicy expression. Made with heritage apples Kingston Black and Stoke Red, it has notes of cinnamon, star anise and orange zest. A perfect winter cider for mulling, or serve chilled.

Wild fermented and barrel-aged for 13 months, Peckham’s Major Single Heritage Varietal 2022 is beautifully aromatic with rich apple and fresh stonefruit character.

Peckham’s Roasted Apple

5.7% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99

Peckham’s Cider

Crafted for winter by blending a smoky fire cider with one of Peckham’s traditional barrel-aged ciders. Medium in style, it uses heritage apples Yarlington Mill, Knotted Kernel, Dabinett and Tremlett's Bitter. Rich caramelised apple and orange notes, maple, baked apricot and hints of ripe peach with a smoky finish.

Peckham’s Stoke Red Single Heritage Varietal 2020

5.8% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99 – out August

Peckham’s Cider

Wild fermented and barrel-aged for 10 months, this single varietal vintage cider is fulsome on the nose with rich apple flavour and sherbet notes. Dry in style, bright and tart with juicy tropical and stonefruit characters bringing balance to this moreish drop.

Peckham’s Major Single Heritage Varietal 2022

6.7% ABV, 330ml RRP $6.49 – out October

Peckham’s Cider

Wild fermented and barrel-aged for 13 months, this single varietal vintage cider is beautifully aromatic with rich apple and fresh stonefruit character. The bittersweet Major apple creates a complex, dry style cider with earthy notes and a full body.

Peckham’s Knotted Kernel Single Heritage Varietal 2020

7.2% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99 – out September

Peckham’s Cider

Wild fermented and barrel-aged for 10 months, a single varietal vintage cider with delicious fresh cider apple and grassy notes on the nose. Dry in style, with earthy and nutty undertones.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 86.

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

Going dark

Think you know dark beers? Michael Donaldson invites you to meet the new arrivals…

DARK BEERS are having a moment in the sun this winter, with changes in flavour profiles and techniques bringing craft alternatives to the fore.

Until recently, the “black” market was left largely to the mainstream players – if you wanted a dark beer your best bet was often Monteith’s Black, Mac’s Black, Speight’s Old Dark… or that perennially globally popular drop called Guinness.

We’ve seen craft breweries invade the lager and low carb space once dominated entirely by big breweries, and now they’re doing the same with the darker beers.

In the past month or so, we’ve seen two major releases from two of the biggest players in the craft space: Parrotdog releasing their six-pack stout called Black, and Garage Project releasing a black-can version of their popular Beer. (Or as most people say it: “Beer beer”.)

These are by no means the only craft players in this space, but they are two of the largest independent brewers and it’s no surprise to see them making incursions into areas previously seen as too mainstream for smaller breweries.

In the past, the crafty side of the dark spectrum has been reserved for one-off releases of decadent imperial stouts, Baltic porters, and lush milk or cream stouts, usually in 440ml cans or 500ml bottles.

Parrotdog brew team leader Matt Warner was quite happy to say they took inspiration from beers produced by Mac’s and Monteith’s for their flavoursome and drinkable 5% ABV stout six-pack.

“We wanted it to be interesting, superbalanced, and drinkable and it’s been really well received,” Warner says. “We did a lot of research and development on this beer, and when it came time to release, we actually blended two smaller batches so we could get it bang-on.”

At the time of writing the beer was so popular another batch was in tank.

coffee flavours to play out in a more balanced way.

In general, it follows the trend of decreasing bitterness across the board in the beer world, and instead accenting sweet, fruity notes, whether they come from hops, malts or even yeast.

New malting techniques help in this regard too, with brewers having more options with their darker malts.

Garage Project’s black version of Beer plays in the same market space as Parrotdog Black, but stylistically it is a Czech-style dark lager with a floral hop character laid over soft chocolate and a creamy body.

What redefines or differentiates these beers is a de-escalation of what many drinkers dislike about stouts or robust porters: an ashy, charred, or roasted character. This reworking has been a trend for a while in darker beers, as dialling back that “burnt” flavour tones down the acidity and bitterness and allows chocolate, nutty, biscuity and

The other thing I like about these new beers – and others such as 8 Wired’s Maverick Stout, Cassels Milk Stout, Stoke Dark and Sunshine Stout to name a few that come in multi-packs – is that they sit just on that 5% ABV mark, proving that you can pack in lots of flavour on a reasonably sessionable base. And disproving that dark beers are “heavy” or high alcohol, which is one of the great myths of the beer world.

While winter remains a playground for big ABV pastry stouts, imperial stouts, coffee stouts, Baltic porters and treats such as Three Boys Oyster Stout, there’s a growing market for easy-drinking darker beer in the cooler months that offers a refreshing (and these beers are refreshing!) local alternative to Ireland’s finest export.

There’s a growing market for easy-drinking darker beer in the cooler months.

Brewing industry slams excise tax hike

THE BREWERS Association and Brewers Guild have voiced their disappointment at the Government decision to implement the second largest beer tax increase in 30 years.

The annually adjusted alcohol excise rate increased by 6.65% from 1 July, after a record 6.92% increase in 2022. It is expected that revenue from all alcohol excise tax in the year ending 2022/23 will be $1.29b.

In a joint statement, the two industry groups said that based on recently released Government budget forecasts, the 6.65% excise increase will cost New Zealanders an extra $86m per year, including $28.9m for beer drinkers alone.

“The system, which links annual excise increases to the Consumer Price Index, is flawed, especially at times of high inflation,” said Brewers Association of New Zealand Executive Director Dylan Firth and Brewers Guild Executive Director Melanie Kees. “For example, when inflation averages 2-3%, businesses can build or absorb the cost into pricing. But the large increases we have seen in the past two years, totalling more than 13%, mean the cost jump for businesses, and ultimately consumers, prevents further investment, innovation and growth.”

“Combined with the many other increasing costs brewers and beer sellers in the hospitality sector are facing, the price of a pint is fast becoming out of reach. The last thing we want to do with our borders re-opening and tourism building up again, is to be seen as the land of the unaffordable pint.

“We have always highlighted to Government that they have the discretion to not raise excise by CPI. This is built into legislation. Given the cost pressures for every Kiwi, we hoped some consideration would be given to this.”

announced almost 10% relief for keg beer sold through hospitality venues to offset inflation. Closer to home, our Australian neighbours have for years identified that pubs have an important place in society, so have a differential keg excise rate which is lower than the rate for packaged beer, as well as an exemption on any excise paid on the first 500,000L of beer produced, which supports smaller breweries.”

Joseph Wood, Chairman of the Brewers Guild and owner of Liberty Brewing, said that hitting the industry with another hefty increase could be the final straw for some smaller breweries. “Many of these breweries are small businesses who are doing their absolute best, producing amazing beer, adding value to their local communities and economies, employing staff and yet, another increase of this size could be the difference between staying in business or not.

Firth and Kees say that with inflation expected to remain high into 2024, they are urging the Government to consider the means they have to reduce the tax burden on New Zealanders, citing the positive effect tax relief has had on small businesses in other comparable markets.

“The UK Government froze excise tax increases several years ago. Now, with this coming to an end, they have

“When you add up the cost increases the industry has faced over the past 12 months, including CO2, wages and ingredients, add to that the Health Promotion levy and the fact we cannot claim GST back on the excise, these are dire times, especially for those small breweries. There will be some very tough decisions to make for business owners, a stressful time for sure.”

Zeelandt Brewery’s core range returns

FIVE MONTHS on from Cyclone Gabrielle, craft beermaker Zeelandt Brewery’s core beer range has returned to full production.

The popular Hawke’s Bay brewery in Eskdale and the adjoining Cone & Flower Garden Bar were destroyed by the February weather event.

Zeelandt’s head brewer, Christopher Barber, says they’re very pleased to announce that the core range is back through a contract brewing partner and available to order now. “Our core range beers are available in 330mL can, 440mL can, 30L keg, and 50L keg and include favourites Jerry Rig, Good

Thief, Black Monk, and Four Stroke,” says Barber. “Contract brewing will continue for the time being as it allows us to work on other aspects of the business, including looking for premises in Hawke’s Bay.”

In addition to its core range, Zeelandt also has two seasonal limited release beers available

in 440mL can, 30L keg, and 50L keg: Brunhilde’s Fate Rauchbier, a German smoked beer; and Kaiser Garcia Lager, a German beer with Mexican influence.

Barber has also thanked those who supported its cyclone fundraising beer, Back on the Horse. “We’re in the final stages of collecting all the proceeds from this beer, and shortly we’ll be distributing these to Bay View Volunteer Fire Brigade, Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter, and the Bay View Community Trust.”

Order direct from Zeelandt on christopher@zeelandt. co.nz, via Invisible Agency on andyg@invisibleltd.co.nz or via Bottle-O Onekawa for Hawke’s Bay customers via the trade portal.

The alcohol excise rate increased by 6.65% from 1 July this year.

OFFICIAL BEER OF RUGBY WORLD CUP 2023

1987 – a year of beginnings

‘87’ IS a significant number for World Rugby and Asahi Group –it was 1987 when the first ever Rugby World Cup was held and that same year the first ever Asahi Super Dry beer was served.

36 years later and the two events are coming together, with Asahi Super Dry the official beer of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France. Asahi Super Dry and Asahi Super Dry 0.0% will be served at all tournament venues and Rugby Villages across France, spanning 48 matches in 10 host cities.

Asahi Super Dry in the spotlight

Asahi Beverages NZ CEO Andrew Campbell says the shared significance of 1987 feels pretty special: “I remember Rugby World Cup 1987 well, and like many Kiwis I was particularly proud it was New Zealand that won the Webb Ellis Cup.

“It is auspicious that the two events have joined this year and both the beer and the tournament have grown from strength to strength. The 2023 partnership follows a record-breaking Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan and reflects Asahi’s ambition to introduce more consumers to Asahi Super Dry.”

The Worldwide Partnership between Asahi Super Dry and Rugby World Cup 2023 is expected to drive increased sales of Asahi Super Dry, including the 0.0% variant, while elevating the fan experience live in stadiums or at home.

Offering fans an 0.0% option

Asahi Super Dry 0.0% – the non-alcohol take on Japan’s #1 beer – arrived in New Zealand earlier this year and offers consumers Asahi Super Dry’s signature crisp and refreshing taste without the alcohol. Its exceptional quality was recognised at London’s World Alcohol-Free Awards 2023 in March, with judges remarking that it is a “classic lager that’s indistinguishable from a full-strength version”.

Major RWC 2023 prizes in consumer campaign

Asahi Beverages NZ is also giving fans of Asahi Super Dry and rugby the chance to win one of six Ultimate Rugby World Cup 2023 Finals Experience double pass trips including flights, accommodation, spending money and tickets to the Bronze and Final matches in Paris. To enter, consumers can either use a unique code on the inside of any 12 or 24 pack of Asahi Super Dry beer they’ve purchased and enter it on the Asahi website or enter a code on a scratch card received when purchasing any two Asahi Super Dry beers at participating licenced venues. “These prizes are really unique and are likely to be once-in-a lifetime opportunities,” says Campbell.

Asahi Beverages NZ

Epic Brewing in liquidation

ICONIC KIWI brewery Epic Brewing went into liquidation in July – a development that shocked the industry and devastated its loyal fans.

Founded by brewer Luke Nicholas and wife Wendy back in 2007, Epic was a cornerstone of New Zealand’s craft brewing industry and Nicholas was firmly at the forefront of the ‘hops explosion’ with his multi-award winning Armageddon and Hop Zombie beers.

In an interview with beer writer Michael Donaldson on his website Pursuit of Hoppiness just after news of the liquidation broke, Nicholas said they had been working on a new brewery and taproom but some investment fell through at the last minute, leaving the business without a “cashflow bridge”.

Waterstone Insolvency director Adam Botterill told the NZ Herald they are looking for buyers for the brewer and believe there is a lot of value in the company in terms of the brand.

Kiwi breweries shine at AIBA 2023

NEW ZEALAND breweries scooped all three Champion International Brewery trophies at the 2023 Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) held in Melbourne.

Garage Project was awarded Champion Large International Brewery; Auckland’s Behemoth Brewing claimed Champion Medium International Brewery; and Taranaki’s Three Sisters Brewery took out Champion Small International Brewery. Celebrating 30 years in 2023 with a record 2,689 beers entered from around the world, the AIBA event saw Victoria’s Dollar Bill Brewing claim the prestigious title of Champion Australian Beer for their Candy Paint 2023 Barrel Aged Sour Ale, while Champion International Beer went to NBeer Craft Brewing Co, Sichuan, China for their Lindongjiangzhi Weizenbock.

The title of Champion Large Australian Brewery went to Mountain Goat Beer, Champion Medium Australian Brewery was awarded to Deeds Brewing, and Moffat Beach Brewing Co. took out Champion Small Australian Brewery.

Find full Trophy and Medal results at melbourneroyal. com.au/australian-international-beer-awards

Andrew and Hannah Childs of Behemoth

Crimson Badger Brewing joins Federal Merchants & Co

QUEENSTOWN-BASED CRIMSON Badger Brewing is now distributed across New Zealand by premium beverage distributor Federal Merchants & Co.

The agreement, which took effect on 1 August, sees Federal Merchants & Co. distribute Crimson Badger’s original Ginger Bear and Dark & Grizzly exclusively into the on- and off-premise channels.

Crimson Badger had its origins in 2017, when friends Wes and Sam embarked on what they initially viewed as a hobby. Their passion project evolved into a thriving business and now employs a team of five. Being an organic business (re-investing all capital as the company grew) they started by contracting to

Christchurch, eventually scaling their operations and brewing and packaging everything from Queenstown in 2019. They also launched The Loose Moose canning company to help fund the capital investment by contracting canning to local breweries.

Crimson Badger’s 4% Ginger Bear has garnered a devoted following in the deep south and can be found in cans and on tap at bars around Queenstown, Wanaka, and beyond.

Federal Merchants & Co.’s Michael Morton said: “We love what Wes and the team have done so far with Crimson Badger Brewing. This new partnership for our businesses is super exciting and we can’t wait to help them achieve their next phase of growth as

we introduce every Kiwi to what those in the deep south already know about their great products, led of course by iconic Ginger Bear.”

Crimson Badger founder Wesley McAllister said that he and and team are excited to join Federal Merchants & Co and expand their reach. “This partnership will help our business improve and open the door to create new products, knowing that we now have the capability to supply nationwide. It’s an exciting new chapter and I am thankful for everyone that has supported us along the way. We are eagerly looking forward to what lies ahead.”

Federal Merchants

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.

Alcohol

Free* IPA

*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.

The Crimson Badger team

Flavours of Tahiti

IT WAS on a sunny day in 1986, while riding his bike in Tahiti, that Marc Jones stumbled across a place called Ava Tea. It was home to a small distillery with pot stills of solid copper. Freshly picked local fruits like guava were hand crushed and distilled with a little yeast and then left to ferment naturally.

“I’ll never forget how much the natural fruit flavour came out in the spirits,” recalls Marc, nearly 40 years later. “There were high esters in the fermentation –although I had no idea what esters were back then! All I knew was that this place was special.”

Ava Tea was a two-person operation and the owner/distiller Bernard Leger offered Marc a place to stay in exchange for his help. It transpired that Bernard had been the head French diplomat in China and had come to Tahiti to live out his dream of making eau du vie.

For Marc, it was a chance to learn about distilling from the ground up. “I never thought this would serve me so well in later life,” he laughs.

The story unfolds

From here, Marc established his company Tahitian Import Export (T.I.E.) which began by exporting Tahitian vanilla beans to distribute across the USA. He and his partner built a name for Tahitian vanilla, selling the distinctive bean further afield as well, to Canada, Germany, France and Japan.

Vanilla from Tahiti (Vanilla Tahititensis) is very different from the popular Madagascan vanilla (Vanilla Planifolia), which is also grown in other regions of the world.

Moving into vanilla extract production meant obtaining an alcohol licence. “My first still was 20 litres,” says Marc. “But you can’t go far with such small production. I made a jump to a 1,200-litre pot still, then to a bigger pot still, until I was able to build my dream still.”

Marc threw himself into learning as much as he could about distilling rum, vodka, whiskey and bourbon, mixing with head distillers and engineers from some of the

biggest spirits companies in the world as he built his knowledge and eventually his dream distillery in Tahiti.

Distilling the tastes of Tahiti

Today, the T.I.E. Distillery makes a range of spirits and liqueurs. Rum is the focus and is made using different varieties of sugarcane grown on the island of Taha’a, a remote outer island famous for its unique sugarcane and vanilla.

Locals are a key part of the operation – from sugarcane farmers to harvesters and distillery staff.

Head Distiller Vitua Richmond joined the team more than 20 years ago and his military background means the distillery runs like a well-oiled machine. He was trained by the Head Distiller at Bacardi and specialises in making smooth, clean rums.

Vitua also has family on Taha’a so was able to reach out to farmers the distillery could work with. T.I.E. prides itself on paying a good price so that local farmers are motivated to increase their production and earn a good living growing sugarcane.

Pierre Bouquet, the director of T.I.E. has a very special relationship with Taha’a local Tioti, who is responsible for all the sugarcane farmers. This bond between the two men and their families was forged 30 years ago and continues today.

The main sugarcane of Taha’a is ‘Otahiti’ – a noble variety native to Tahiti. This large tropical sugarcane provides a very special juice, which is transformed into premium products like Ariki Rum and expresses itself with a sweet floral aroma and sweetness on the tip of the tongue.

T.I.E.’s rums have been awarded internationally – most recently with the Noa Noa Tahiti Rhum Brun awarded Gold at the 2022 London Spirits Competition and the Noa Noa Tahiti Vanilla awarded Bronze at the same competition in 2020.

It is the magical combination of the unique character of the sugar cane, the local Tahitian springwater and careful ageing in bourbon and cognac barrels that makes Tahitian rum one of the most exotic spirits in the world.

Explore the wide range of rums made in Tahiti at T.I.E. Distillery:

• Ariki

• Tahiti Love

• Tahiti Black Barrel Rum

• South Pacific

• Skull Island Black Rum

• Tahiti Black Barrel

• Bounty Rum

Distributed by Makan Distiller

Sugarcane grown in the tropical sunshine of Tahiti is at the heart of a distinctive range of rums…

Head Distiller Vitua Richmond

Golden touch

Rum is having a moment in the sun as it enjoys global growth. Check out the expanding range available here, with new releases from muchloved brands and local offerings as well…

RRP $35 - $59.99

Malibu Original

21% ABV, 700ml RRP $37.99, 1L RRP $48.99

Pernod Ricard

Malibu Original combines white rum with coconut extract for a tropical flavour.

Malibu Passionfruit

21% ABV, 700ml RRP $37.99

Pernod Ricard

The taste of passionfruit is blended with Malibu white rum to create a fruity, tropical hit.

Havana Club Cuban Spiced Rum

35% ABV, 700ml RRP $44.99

Pernod Ricard

The Spiced expression from Havana Club balances sweet vanilla and aromatic spice with hints of juicy ripe guava, toasted coconut and fresh pineapple.

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold

35% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99

Lion

Spice and natural flavours are blended with Caribbean rum before ageing in charred white oak barrels. A smooth rum with notes of rich vanilla, brown sugar, warming spices and a hint of oak.

Havana Club Añejo 3 Años

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $46.99, 1L RRP $59.99

Pernod Ricard

Aged for three years, this rum has an intense nose of banana and smoked oak, with flavours of smoke, vanilla and chocolate.

Havana Club Especial

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $46.99

Pernod Ricard

A golden rum that is rich, round and creamy with notes of vanilla, caramel and a hint of wood thanks to a second finish (double ageing) in young white oak barrels before the final blend.

Black Heart Dark Rum

37.5% ABV 1L RRP $49.99

Asahi NZ

A smooth rum with a rich, strong flavour. Black Heart also played a part in New Zealand’s naval history as the official rum in the days when sailors enjoyed a free daily rum ration.

Flor de Caña 4YO (Extra Seco)

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99

Hancocks

A sugar-free premium rum that is sustainably produced (Carbon Neutral & Fair Trade certified) at a 5th generation family estate in Nicaragua. A light-bodied rum with aromas of sweet almonds and vanilla leading to a palate of white chocolate and orange essence with a long, dry finish.

Bacardi Carta Blanca

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $52.99

Lion

This classic Cuban white rum is a mainstay behind bars the world over. Aromas of tropical fruit with distinctive vanilla and almond notes alongside banana and apricot. Ideal for a classic mojito.

Beenleigh White Rum

37.5% ABV, 750ml RRP $52.99

EuroVintage

A bright white Australian rum. Soft and rounded on the palate, it has molasses and hazelnut character, with a hint of oak and vanilla.

Tahiti Love Punch

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.95

Makan Distiller

A blend of light rum and an original recipe from the islands of Tahiti using sugarcane sugar mixed with lemon and local flavours.

Flor de Caña 4YO is a sugar-free premium rum that is sustainably produced at a 5th generation family estate in Nicaragua.

Angostura 3YO Reserva

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Federal Merchants

Aged in barrel for three years, this white rum is charcoal filtered to remove any colour from the ageing process. The rum is dry, with a rich vanilla flavour and smooth finish.

Appleton Estate Signature Blend

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 and 1L RRP $69.99

Thirsty Camel

Fifteen select aged rums (aged for an average of four years) are combined to create the Signature Blend from Jamaican rum producer Appleton Estate. This rum has aromas of rich fruit and sweet caramel, with flavours of subtle orange peel, dried apricot, fresh peach, and a hint of molasses and woody notes.

Bacardi Spiced

40% ABV, 1L RRP $54.99

Lion

This rum is aged in charred American oak barrels then charcoal filtered and blended with spices. It has a hint of barrel smoke, subtle dried fruit and intense creamy butterscotch on the palate with a slightly peppery finish.

Beenleigh Australian Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

EuroVintage

This Australian rum is copper pot distilled and aged in ex-brandy vats and American oak ex-bourbon barrels. Aromas of soft vanilla and subtle spice lead to a palate of vanilla, rich spice and a hint of citrus.

Coruba Gold

37.2% ABV, 1L RRP $54.99  Thirsty Camel

This 100% Jamaican blend is a versatile entry-level rum, whose golden colour derives from ageing in small oak barrels. Smooth on the palate with hints of brown sugar, nutmeg and vanilla.

Coruba Original

37.2% ABV, 1L RRP $54.99

Thirsty Camel

A mellow, full flavoured rum. Aromas and flavours of molasses, cocoa and caramel, and a hint of spice.

Bacardi Carta Oro

40% ABV, 1L RRP $54.99

Lion

This golden rum was used in the original Cuba Libre. Ageing in toasted oak barrels gives its golden hue and mellow flavours of vanilla, buttery caramel, toasted almond and sweet banana, balanced by orange zest and a light oaky finish. Awarded the Trophy for Best Overall Rum at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards.

Lost Barrel Caribbean Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Brandhouse

A Caribbean rum that is rich on the palate with flavours of caramelised fruit, banana and vanilla and a lingering five spice finish.

Ron Santisima Trinidad 3YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Tickety-Boo

Designed for use in cocktails, the three-yearold expression from Ron Santisima Trinidad has aromas of sugarcane and oak with a hint of almonds. In the mouth there is slight sweetness with defined notes of sugarcane, wood, almonds, vanilla, grapes and dried plums.

Stolen Dark

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $54.99

Beam Suntory

A lighter, smoother version of the traditionally heavy, naval-style dark rums. Stolen Dark is aged for a minimum of two years in ex-whiskey charred oak barrels. Demerara caramel provides its deep colour, along with lightly toasted sweet caramel aromas on the nose and honeyed texture.

Stolen Gold

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Beam Suntory

A smooth, full-bodied and versatile gold rum. Aged for a minimum of two years in ex-whiskey charred oak barrels. Aromas of butterscotch and cinnamon spice; smooth and buttery on the palate with notes of toffee apple.

Stolen White

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Beam Suntory

Barrel aged for a minimum of two years and then carbon filtered to remove any trace of colour or impurities. Aromas of cocoa and fruit, which continue on the palate, and a sweet delicate mouth feel.

Lost Barrel Caribbean Rum is rich on the palate with flavours of caramelised fruit, banana and vanilla and a lingering five spice finish.

Tahiti Love Coconut

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

Made from Tahitian sugarcane, this rum is macerated with real coconut for a blend of tropical flavours.

Tahiti Love Coconut Vanilla

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

A marriage of tropical tastes with Tahitian vanilla and coconut combined in this unique rum.

Tahiti Love Dark Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

A blended and aged rum made from Tahitian sugarcane. Extremely smooth with a bouquet of exotic scents.

Tahiti Love Honey Rum

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

The delicate sweetness of honey adds a layer of complexity to this light Tahitian rum.

Tahiti Love Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

A complex blend of all natural spices from around the world creates layers of flavour in this Tahitian rum.

Tahiti Love Vanilla

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

A showcase of Tahitian flavours, this rum is made from Tahitian sugarcane and the island’s distinctive vanilla – Vanilla Tahitensis – unique to Tahiti.

Tahiti Love White Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.95

Makan Distiller

A light white rum made from Tahitian sugarcane. Perfect for Mojitos.

Angostura 5YO

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Federal Merchants

Five years in oak barrels gives this rum a rich golden colour, with flavours of chocolate, spice, vanilla and toasted oak leading to a warm and mellow finish. Serve as a sipping rum or use in spice-driven mixed drinks.

Bacardi 4 Años

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Lion

A blend of rums aged for a minimum of four years, this new arrival has aromas of vanilla and cinnamon that lead to a palate of dark honey clove. Toffee and oak on the finish.

Bayou Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Tickety-Boo

A spiced rum inspired by the Creole baking traditions for which its hometown of Louisiana is famous. Bayou Rum is rested for up to 30 days with a special blend of Creole baking spices, creating aromas of cinnamon and sweet banana and a palate full of maple, banana, allspice, clove, vanilla and pepper.

Bayou Reserve Dark Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Tickety-Boo

This rum from Louisiana is matured in bourbon barrels for up to three years using the Solera ageing method. It has aromas of creamy vanilla with hints of apple and cinnamon. The palate opens with a dry oak-like character, followed by pronounced cinnamon and maple. A dry rum with lingering notes of dark fruit and wood.

Black Magic Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Hancocks

A blend of light and dark rums made in the Caribbean. Aromas of caramel, spice, cinnamon and vanilla lead to flavours of rich fruit cake and a long finish of vanilla and brown sugar.

Made from Tahitian sugarcane, Tahiti Love Coconut is macerated with real coconut for a blend of tropical flavours

Brugal Añejo

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Hancocks

Brugal Añejo offers a clean, dry rum that’s ideal for traditional rum serves, without an overly sweet finish. It has light aromas of wood with hints of chocolate. Buttery in the mouth with a slight hint of caramel and wood tannin. The finish is long and dry.

Flor de Caña 7 YO (Gran Reserva)

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Hancocks

A full-bodied rum with aromas of toasted coconut vanilla and figs. On the palate there is honey and dark chocolate, leading to a long, smooth finish.

Langs Jamaican Rum Banana

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

EuroVintage

Aromas of warm banana bread, brown sugar, cinnamon and vanilla lead to a palate full of fresh sweet banana over classic rum flavours. A fruity finish.

Langs Jamaican Rum Mango & Ginger

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

EuroVintage

The scent of fresh and fruity mango coulis mixes with warming hints of fresh ginger. Intense tropical fruits in the mouth, alongside lime and crystallised ginger. The ginger heat builds in a long, spiced finish.

Langs Jamaican Rum Pineapple

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

EuroVintage

A classic pineapple and rum combo with earthy sweetness and notes of coconut, vanilla, molasses, rum and subtle spice. On the palate there’s fresh pineapple, rich caramel, cinnamon, oak and a touch of lime. The finish lingers with fruits and spiced oak.

South Pacific Tahiti Dark Rum

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $59.99

Makan Distiller

A smooth Tahitian dark rum with initial flavours of caramel, toffee, and toasted oak. As it settles, tropical notes of ripe bananas and juicy pineapple emerge, with hints of spice. Gentle smoke on the finish evokes beachside bonfires.

South Pacific Tahiti Spiced Gold

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $59.99

Makan Distiller

A combination of warm spices and tropical notes mingle in this golden Tahitian rum. Rich caramel and molasses form a robust base, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add layers of complexity. Subtle hints of pineapple and mango create a refreshing and tropical touch. The finish is smooth and lingering.

Doorly’s White Rum 3YO

47% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Although this white rum is matured in casks for three years, the colour is removed through a filtration system leaving a full-bodied and flavoursome spirit. Fresh and fruity with hints of coconut and a clean finish.

RRP $60 - $79.99

Bacardi Reserva Ocho 8 Años

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Lion

A selection of barrel-aged reserve rums aged for a minimum of eight years are blended to make this more premium offering from Bacardi. It has aromas of vanilla, toffee, honey and caramel with toasted oak. The flavour is smooth and rich with notes of prune, apricot, nutmeg and vanilla, and a soft wood finish.

Beenleigh Double Cask 5YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

EuroVintage

This Australian rum is aged two years in ex-brandy vats and three years in American oak ex-bourbon barrels. It has soft aromas of molasses, fruit toast and dried coconut. In the mouth there are rich Demerara and traditional fudge notes with a hint of floral. Apricot and dessert pastry notes emerge too.

Dead Man’s Fingers Coconut

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Premium Liquor Co.

Dead Man’s Fingers Coconut Rum is made using a blend of Caribbean rums as well as spices and the tropical flavour of coconut.

Dead Man’s Fingers Passionfruit

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Premium Liquor Co.

This rum has sweet, tropical passionfruit aromas with hints of mango.

Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Premium Liquor Co.

This was the first rum created under the Dead Man’s Fingers brand at the Rum & Crab Shack in St. Ives, Cornwall. It is a blend of Caribbean rum and spices, inspired by Cornish favourites such as Christmas cake, nutty dried fruit and rum-raisin ice cream.

Havana Club Añejo 7 Años

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Pernod Ricard

A combination of barrels that have been aged and blended, with the minimum age of any barrel being seven years. A rich rum with aromas of cocoa, vanilla, cedar, sweet tobacco and lush tropical fruits. Flavours of sugarcane, chestnut and caramelised tropical fruit sit above a backbone of oak and rich brown spice.

Stolen Smoked

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $62.99

Beam Suntory

Stolen Smoked uses roasted Colombian coffee beans, Madagascan vanilla, Moroccan fenugreek and a smoking process using American hardwood to infuse the aged Caribbean rum with layers of vanilla, warm caramel and dark chocolate that leads to a long smoky finish.

Angostura 7YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Federal Merchants

A blend of select rums aged for a minimum of seven years at House of Angostura’s Trinidad distillery. Aromas of vanilla, molasses, coffee, spice and oak lead to flavours of chocolate, honey, toffee, caramel, coffee and roasted nuts.

Black Collar Golden Rum

38.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Beverage Brothers

A small batch rum made in Black Collar’s copper still in its Bay of Island distillery. The aroma is almost creamy with subtle butterscotch and vanilla. It’s light and smooth on the palate with more butterscotch and slight vanilla sweetness balanced by oak. The lingering, creamy finish is of vanilla and oak.

Black Tears Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Tickety-Boo

This dry spiced rum from Cuba uses coffee, cacoa and aji dulce – a sweet chilli pepper synonymous with Cuba’s cuisine. The complex palate is of gentle cocoa with a punch of coffee on the finish, along with the lingering, peppery spice. Elegant and well-balanced.

El Dorado Cask Aged 3 Years

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Tickety-Boo

This three-year-old full-flavoured cask-aged rum has aromas of citrus and vanilla, enhanced by notes of chocolate and raisins. A smooth, rounded palate with coconut; fruity with a dry, rounded finish.

Neptune Rum Caribbean Spiced

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Premium Liquor Co.

This full-bodied spiced rum is blended from five-, three- and two-year-old rums, selected from four Caribbean islands and then infused with passionfruit, Persian lime, vanilla and cinnamon.

Sailor Jerry Savage Apple

35% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Federal Merchants

This new addition to the Sailor Jerry brand blends real apple with the original Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum. A rum with a juicy apple twist over notes of vanilla and cinnamon.

Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Federal Merchants

Sailor Jerry rum is distilled in the Virgin Islands and has a Caribbean influence with flavours of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove and rich vanilla. It has a long, dry finish with a hint of toasted toffee. Goes especially well with ginger.

Black Tears Spiced Rum from Cuba uses coffee, cacoa and aji dulce –a sweet chilli pepper synonymous with Cuba’s cuisine.

Beenleigh Traditional Rum Liqueur

20% ABV, 750ml RRP $66.99

EuroVintage

A rum liqueur with aromas of plum and apricot alongside caramel and toffee dessert notes. Pronounced, silky rum notes with a long finish.

Cruzan Aged Dark

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $66.99

Beam Suntory

A blend of rums aged two to four years in charred oak casks. A rich aroma with prominent oak. Smooth, medium-bodied and well-rounded with a buttery mouthfeel and wood tones followed by a sweet honey finish.

Cruzan Black Strap

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $66.99

Beam Suntory

Robust liquorice and molasses flavours makes this rum ideal for mixing into tropical cocktails: it pairs well with lemon, lime, ginger and pineapple. Its deep black hue is also great for adding colour to drinks.

El Dorado Cask Aged 5 Years

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $67.99

Tickety-Boo

A deep golden-hued rum with aromas of dried tropical fruit, caramel, butterscotch and molasses. Flavours of vibrant spice, fruit, caramel and toasted coconut, fading to vanilla.

Port O Ahuriri Botanical Rum

42% ABV, 700ml RRP $69

The National Distillery Company

This offering from The National Distillery Company in Hawke’s Bay is described as an ode to the botanicals discovered by the early whalers and fishermen who travelled through the historic Port of Ahuriri in Napier from the 1830s. With no oak ageing, the Botanical Rum draws its layered flavours from its sugarcane base, which is vapour distilled through cacao, roasted coffee beans, lime peel, and tonka bean. It has notes of vanilla, stone fruit, chocolate and sweet lime. A sweet and rounded mouthfeel.

Noa Noa Tahiti The Bounty Boat

Dark Rum

40% ABV, 500ml RRP $69.95

Makan Distiller

A Tahitian dark rum presented in a bottle fashioned after the HMS Bounty – a British ship that spent five months in Tahiti in the late 1700s collecting breadfruit plants and became famous for its onboard mutiny. A great conversation starter for the back bar.

Appleton Estate Rare Blend 8YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Thirsty Camel

This flagship rum of Appleton Estate was crafted by Master Blender Joy Spence to commemorate the distillery’s 250th anniversary. Aromas of spicy fruit and oak open up to hints of honey, vanilla, spice, and Appleton Estate’s signature orange peel note. A smooth finish balanced with a hint of molasses and warm oak.

Black Collar Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Beverage Brothers

This New Zealand rum is made with 100% natural spices and designed to be served neat. It has aromas of cinnamon, cloves and a hint of almost raisiny sweetness. It’s smooth and rounded in the mouth with a subtle spicy kick of clove and charred oak and sweet vanilla to balance.

Plunders Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Brandhouse

The team at KJ & Co. in Christchurch use a premium aged base rum imported from Panama to make Plunders, which is loaded with flavours of banana and tropical spice and rounded out with notes of vanilla and oak. Made for sipping, it has a light sweetness and complex flavours. Awarded the Trophy for Best Overall Rum (Spiced/Botanical) at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards.

Ratu Signature Blend 8YO

35% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners NZ

Aromas of zesty orange, dark chocolate and coffee, with a velvet mouth feel of coconut and spiced oak followed by a lingering fresh citrus flavour.

Ratu Dark Rum 5YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners NZ

Savoury, smoked oak aromas give way to the rich sweetness of caramel, vanilla and tea leaves with a mouth-watering liquorice finish.

Ratu Spiced Rum 5YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners NZ

Complex charred oak and citrus aroma with a rich vanilla and candied orange flavour, combined with the warmth of cinnamon and star anise.

Spirited Union Organic Coconut

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Hancocks

Sustainably distilled organic Belizean rum is united with toasted coconut flakes, organic coconut water, raw Peruvian cacao and Madagascan vanilla for a complex rum with fresh notes of coconut.

Spirited Union Pink Grapefruit & Rose

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Hancocks

This intriguing rum expression combines citrus and blossom – with fresh pink grapefruit, blood orange, vapour distilled rose petals and elderflower blossom all in the mix.

Spirited Union Queen Pineapple & Spice

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Hancocks

This release from Amsterdam’s Spirited Union distillery uses queen pineapple, cassia wood and cinnamon. It has complex fruity notes and tropical freshness, with the natural sweetness of the pineapple balanced by the heat of the spices.

Tanduay Gold Asian Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Mineral

A silky-smooth gold rum from Tanduay distillery in the Philippines. Made using their own heritage sugarcane, the rum is aged up to seven years in ex-bourbon barrels. On the palate there is mature honey with hints of toasted oak, almond and vanilla.

Tanduay Silver Asian Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Mineral

With a light straw appearance, this Silver expression from Tanduay is aged up to five years in ex-bourbon barrels. It has flavours of green ripe fruits with hints of burnt sugar, mandarin and vanilla.

Tanduay Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Mineral

Made from heirloom sugarcanes, Tanduay’s Gold rum is infused with flavours of exotic spices and tropical fruits to create this spiced expression. A smooth, elegant, spiced rum.

Sagatiba Cristalina

38% ABV, 700ml $71.99

Thirsty Camel

Sagatiba Cristalina is a Brazilian cachaça made using multi-distillation to separate any impurities and create a pure and crystalline liquid. Clean and delicate with a sweet/ spice character.

Mount Gay Rum Eclipse

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $72.99

Hancocks

Mount Gay describes this new release as a “heritage blend” and the embodiment of the Mount Gay style. Eclipse is crisp and aromatic with distinctive aromas of vanilla and banana and underlying caramel, summer fruit and spice. On the palate there is an oaky character with slight burnt notes.

Skull Island Black Rum

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.95

Makan Distiller

A Tahitian dark rum presented in a distinctive skull-shaped bottle for an extra dose of piratical charm.

Black Collar Spiced Pineapple Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Beverage Brothers

The Black Collar team in Northland slowly roasted ripe, juicy pineapples over a bed of redhot coconut charcoal then infused them into Black Collar Rum and rested it in oak barrels to further develop its full-bodied flavour. The label is made from wood and really stands out on the shelf – Black Collar says that each label has a slightly different woodgrain to reflect the handcrafted nature of their products.

El Dorado Cask Aged 8 Years

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Tickety-Boo

Aromas of subtle tobacco mix with caramel toffee alongside dried stone fruit and flambéed banana. The mouth-feel is smooth, soft and faintly sweet, with traces of oak and butterscotch.

Tanduay Gold Asian Rum is a silky-smooth gold rum from Tanduay distillery in the Philippines and is made using their own heritage sugarcane.

Goslings Black Seal

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99

Federal Merchants

A blend of aged rums made in small batches, Bermuda-made Goslings has a distinctive dark colour. Rich, smooth and full-bodied with subtle butterscotch, vanilla and caramel.

NZ

Rum Co. McJaggery White Rum

43% ABV, 750ml RRP $74.99

NZ Rum Co.

NZ Rum Co makes its rum from Jaggery sugar (as opposed to molasses). The result is a clean, balanced white rum with light tropical notes.

Ariki Black Rhum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $75.95

Makan Distiller

Aged in oak barrels, this premium Tahitian rum has rich aromas of sugarcane and a full-bodied mouthfeel. ‘Ariki’ is the title of the chief of a tribe and represents authority, nobility and divine ancestry.

Bumbu Original

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99

Pernod Ricard

This rum from Barbados is aged up to 15 years in American bourbon barrels. It has rich and complex aromas of Madagascan vanilla, soft caramel, and oak. Notes of cinnamon, roasted nuts, banana and allspice on the palate and a light, smooth finish.

Matusalem Añejo

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99

Thirsty Camel

A blend of aged rums, Matusalem Añejo offers vanilla, dried fruits, and honey notes overlaid by the aroma of caramelised molasses.

Matusalem Platino

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99

Thirsty Camel

A triple-distilled double-filtered white rum with a clean taste and subtle flavour. Notes of vanilla and brown sugar on the nose, smooth and creamy on the palate with fruity flavours, a hint of vanilla and a dry finish.

Spytail Cognac Barrel

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99

Thirsty Camel

The recipe for Spytail is based on a 19th century French tradition of ageing Caribbean rum in barrels with fresh ginger and spices. The Cognac Barrel expression is further aged in cognac casks for added complexity.

Spytail Ginger Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99

Thirsty Camel

This rum has intense, rich ginger on the nose, against a background of vanilla and spice. Smooth on the palate with continued vanilla, rich fruit cake spices and earthy ginger.

Tahiti Black Barrel Rum

37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $79.95

Makan Distiller

A versatile Tahitian rum aged in French oak barrels. A nicely complex sipping rum or ideal for mixed drinks.

Tau Tihota – Rhum de Taha’a

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.95

Makan Distiller

This white rum is a showcase for a species of Tahitian sugarcane called ‘Otahiti’, which is unique to the island of Taha’a. It has a distinctively smooth flavour, made up of sophisticated floral notes and scents of volcanic earth.

Matusalem Solera 7YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Thirsty Camel

A smooth golden rum that is soft on the palate with pronounced caramel, banana, vanilla and maple syrup and a lush finish.

Aged in oak barrels, premium Tahitian rum Ariki Black Rhum has rich aromas of sugarcane and a fullbodied mouthfeel.

Neptune Barbados Gold Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Premium Liquor Co.

A light-bodied rum with aromas of maple syrup, apricot, and allspice with touches of oak and vanilla. The palate has bitter orange peel, chocolate, vanilla and Caribbean spicy herbs that fade into a hint of peppercorn and coconut husk. The finish is dry with slight woody tannins and citrus oil.

NZ Rum Co. McJaggery Triple Berry

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

NZ Rum Co.

The original McJaggery White Rum has been distilled with strawberries, blackberries and raspberries to create this botanical summer fruit rum.

NZ Rum Co. McJaggery Spiced

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

NZ Rum Co.

This limited edition spiced rum is the latest release from Auckland distillery NZ Rum Co. It’s all spice up front with coffee, cacao and cinnamon in the middle and a hint of vanilla and caramel to finish.

Equiano Light Rum

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This new release from Equiano is produced from a blend of aged and unaged Caribbean and African rum (Mauritian, Barbadian). The freshness of tropical fruit and citrus oil gives way to vanilla and a distinctive tone of ripe sugarcane.

RRP $80 - $99.99

The Kraken Black Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $82.99, 1L RRP $114.99

Thirsty Camel

This inky black rum produced in Trinidad and Tobago is infused with herbs and spices. Aromas of nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon lead to flavours of vanilla, dark chocolate, clove, rich fruit cake and toffee. Rich and spicy.

Pusser’s Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $83.99

Thirsty Camel

This Royal Navy-style rum uses the same blend that it supplied to British warships up until the Royal Navy discontinued its daily ration in 1970. Pusser’s Rum uses five West Indian rums (three from Guyana, two from Trinidad) aged for at least three years. It has aromas of demerara sugar, molasses, dried fruits and spices, with flavours of deep vanilla and honey.

Ariki White Rhum

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.95

Makan Distiller

This Tahitian rum is made from sugarcane grown on the island of Taha’a – a sister island of Tahiti. Rich in flavour, its slightly higher ABV makes it ideal for classic cocktails.

Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Thirsty Camel

A blend of rare golden rums that have all been aged for a minimum of 12 years. This deep bronze rum has flavours of oak, fruit, cocoa, molasses, orange peel, rich vanilla and subtle coffee with a bittersweet finish.

Bayside ‘Three Moons’ Rum

42% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Tickety-Boo

This New Zealand rum uses a kumara fermentation starter in its creation and is aged in ex-Pinot Noir barrels for three months. It has notes of golden kiwifruit, honey, pear and citrus.

Helmsman Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Hancocks

This New Zealand-brand rum is made from a blend of Caribbean golden rum and spices. Initial aromas of fruit cake are followed by banana, vanilla and a hint of warm spice. A full-bodied rum with flavours of rich fruit, cinnamon and toffee.

Helmsman White Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Hancocks

The white rum from Kiwi producer Helmsman is usually aged for over a year in stainless steel tanks and plain oak casks, which creates its light blonde colour and sweet flavour.

Equiano Light Rum is produced from a blend of aged and unaged Caribbean and African rum (Mauritian, Barbadian).

Honest Six Spiced Botanical Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Mineral

This local rum has an initial burst of citrus and a delicate hint of vanilla, combined with aromatic notes of ginger and cloves. Intense orange peel is followed by a subtle hint of scorched sugarcane, with spicy warmth of cinnamon and ginger and lingering nutmeg. The finish is warm and comforting with undertones of cloves and elegant spice.

Matusalem Clásico 10YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Thirsty Camel

Sweet and bitter characters meld in this rum with notes of coffee, toffee, caramel, vanilla and coconut tied together with the aroma of fresh molasses.

Ron Santísima Trinidad 7YO

40.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99

Tickety-Boo

This expression from Cuba’s Ron Santísima Trinidad has a hint of sweet raisins on the nose, while in the mouth there is oak, vanilla and sweet almonds.

Port O Ahuriri Golden Rum

42% ABV, 700ml RRP $89

The National Distillery Company

A balanced blend of molasses and sugarcane, Port O Ahuriri Golden Rum is aged in ex-Buffalo Trace bourbon barrels and has notes of vanilla, stone fruits, toasted oak and a slight saltiness. Awarded Gold and the Trophy for Best NZ Rum in Category at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards.

Angostura 1919

40% ABV, 70ml RRP $89.99

Federal Merchants

A specially blended multi-award-winning rum named for an important date in the development of the rum industry in Trinidad & Tobago, as well as the wider Caribbean. After a fire in 1932, which destroyed the Government Rum Bond, the master blender of Fernandes Distillers bought the charred casks, only to discover they had been filled in the year 1919. The prized rum was blended and called “1919 Aged Rum.” A soft rum with complex toasty flavours from extended ageing in charred barrels.

Millenhall Rum

45% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99

Armada Spirits

This small batch barrel-aged rum from Pāpāmoa distillery Armada Spirits is made with sugarcane and molasses. It’s copper column distilled and has spent a minimum of three years in an ex-New Zealand red wine barrel in the distillery near the Pāpāmoa coastline. The resulting rum has developed rich flavours of caramel and honey, with an oak character from the barrel ageing and a whisky-like finish.

Broken Heart Spirits Spiced Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Giesen

A spiced rum from New Zealand spirits brand Broken Heart. Smooth and well balanced, it is aged three years in barrel and uses natural spices of galangal, vanilla, orange peel, cloves and cinnamon, with distinct caramel, candied walnuts and cinnamon on the palate. Awarded Double Gold and the Trophy for Best New Zealand Rum (Spiced/Botanical) at the 2023 and 2022 NZ Spirits Awards.

Bumbu XO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Pernod Ricard

The XO expression from Bumbu is aged up to 18 years in American bourbon barrels and then finished for at least six months in Spanish sherry casks. It has aromas of toffee, toasted oak, and vanilla, leading to a palate of orange zest, peppery spice, and a hint of coffee.

Don Papa 7YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Glengarry Spirits

This small batch rum has a light fruit aroma and is smooth and delicate on the palate with a long, rich finish. Flavours of vanilla, honey and candied fruits.

Flor de Caña 12 YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Hancocks

An ultra-premium rum from Nicaraguan distillery Flor de Caña. Aromas of red fruits, honey and toasted nuts leading to a palate of wood, vanilla and baked apples, with a smooth and well-balanced finish.

Lunatic & Lover Fundamental Unaged

Organic Rum

44% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Hancocks

Fundamental is rum in its purest form – made from only molasses, water and yeast, distilled on a copper pot still and completely unaged. It is the first rum in New Zealand to be certified organic. Fundamental has aromas of red fruits, cream and peaches; it is silky on the palate with notes of chocolate and a soft liquorice finish.

Mount Gay Black Barrel

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Hancocks

Double ageing in deeply charred bourbon oak barrels creates an undertone of classic bourbon spices balanced with oaky vanilla and sweet caramel.

Plunders XO

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99

Brandhouse

This special release rum is distilled and aged in the Caribbean. Matured in ex-bourbon barrels, it is then blended by hand by Plunders’ master blender in Christchurch.

Smith & Cross Navy Strength

Jamaica Rum

57% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99

Hancocks

A traditional navy strength rum with notes of caramelised banana, tropical fruit, baking spices and some earthy characteristics. A distinctly flavourful and aromatic rum style.

No.8 Pineapple Elixir

36% ABV, 700ml RRP $90

No.8 Distillery

Distiller Julien Delavoie first started making this style of rum, aged with fruit and spices, as a 16-year-old in France. Cask aged for a year, this light and luscious rum has an aroma of sticky sweet pineapple with a hint of earth and then verges into raisin, fruit cake and baking spice. The pineapple persists on the palate with a burst of freshness and a rounded mouthfeel. The finish is delicately sweet.

Charles Merser & Co Double Barrel

43.1% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

Hancocks

A golden rum with aromas of vanilla, tropical fruit and a toasty oak character. The palate is mouth-coating, warming and generous with soft notes of vanilla, more tropical fruit and some vinous notes created through the cask maturation process. Toasty oak returns on the finish alongside sweet vanilla and hints of pastry cream.

El Dorado 12YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

Tickety-Boo

The youngest expression in El Dorado’s Luxury Cask Aged Range, which are rums designed to be savoured. The 12YO has aromas of lush tropical fruit and spice with hints of honey and dark sugar. The palate is round, mellow and full-bodied with rich flavours of fruit and spice and a dry finish.

Cane Overproof by 1919 Distilling

63% ABV, 700ml RRP $95

1919 Distilling

This full-strength New Zealand-made rum is made using combinations of boiled brown sugar from Mauritius and grade A molasses from Australia. It is slow fermented for 4-12 days and then copper pot distilled to create a mouth-coating spirit with deep, rich flavours. This aromatic white rum has a fruity aroma with hints of molasses. It provides depth and punch in cocktails or can be served neat.

Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum

63% ABV, 700ml RRP $96.99

Thirsty Camel

An aromatic and intense rum at 63% ABV with top notes of citrus, pear and pineapple, married with bottom notes of honey and molasses.

Deadhead 6 Year Old Rum

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $99

Hi I.Q. Liquor

A single blended 6-year-old rum made from estate-grown sugar cane juice and molasses and aged in American oak and Chiapas oak. Assertive aromatics and complex flavors make it a great choice for use in classic Tiki cocktails.

Matusalem Gran Reserva 15

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99

Thirsty Camel

A Solera rum with an intense, rich nose of wood, toasted nuts and butterscotch. It has a smooth texture with flavours of cocoa, pronounced oak and a cognac-like finish.

Cane Overproof by 1919 Distilling is a full-strength New Zealand-made rum using boiled brown sugar from Mauritius and grade A molasses from Australia.

Black Tot Caribbean Rum

46.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Crafted from a marriage of fruity Barbadian, full-bodied Guyanese and vibrant Jamaican rums, the Black Tot gets its name from the ration of rum issued daily to sailors of the Royal Navy. A rich and complex rum with flavours of golden syrup, tropical fruits and a leathery hint. A note of coffee and chocolatey mocha on the palate, with butter toffee and oaky spice. A roasted banana character on the finish, ending this rich, fruity and slightly funky rum.

Doorly’s 12YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This 12-year-old rum was produced at the multi-award-winning Foursquare distillery on the Caribbean island of Barbados. It is rich and sweet with notes of butterscotch and tropical fruit and has a full-bodied mouthfeel with flavours of toffee apple, toasted spices and orange.

Doorly’s XO Rum

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Doorly’s rum has been made on the island of Barbados since 1908 and this new XO expression is a blend of some of its oldest rums given a secondary maturation in ex-Oloroso sherry casks. Notes of caramel, brown/ Demerara sugar and banana and toffee apple are joined by a hint of sultana and spice from these casks.

R.L. Seale 10YO

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This Bajan rum is juicy with hints of roasted apple and caramel along with fig and raisin flavours and layers of tropical fruit.

RRP $100 - $149.99

Deadhead Dark Chocolate Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $103

Hi I.Q. Liquor

A single blended 5-year-old rum infused with organic cacao. It has the essence of coffee and butterscotch on the nose, along with the echo of dark chocolate. Decadent dark chocolate on the palate layered with a back note of Bing cherry and cream soda.

Bayou Mardis Gras XO Single Batch

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Tickety-Boo

This Louisiana rum is matured in bourbon barrels for up to six years using the Solera ageing method and then partially finished in sherry barrels. Aromas of dried dark fruit and cedar wood lead to a complex palate of orange marmalade and dark stone fruit with blackcurrant and honey. A long, dry finish with black pepper, sherry and hints of smoke.

Mount Gay XO New Edition

37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Hancocks

A triple cask bend with an ageing scope wider than the current rum to allow for a wider palette of aromas and flavours. Rounded and complex with notes of salted caramel, baked fig, clove and dark chocolate.

Ron Santísima Trinidad 15YO

40.7% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Tickety-Boo

An intense woody aroma with caramelised, toasty character and prunes and raisins, alongside a slightly sweet fragrance. Complex flavours of wood, almond and walnut leading to a long finish.

Zaya Gran Reserva 16

40% ABV 750ml RRP $109.99

Thirsty Camel

A blend of rums aged up to 16 years – this has aromas of baked fruit and spiced vanilla and a palate that’s smooth with caramel, spice and toasted oak. The finish lingers with a hint of smoke.

Brugal 1888

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $114.99

Hancocks

A double-aged rum that rests first in ex-bourbon American oak casks, followed by a second maturation in ex-sherry Spanish oak casks. On the nose there are red and dried fruits, a spicy woodiness and hints of cinnamon. It’s well-rounded and smooth on the palate with toffee, vanilla, peach, cocoa and cloves. Long-lasting finish with a hint of honey.

Pomare V Single Cask

43.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.95

Makan Distiller

This is the most premium expression from Tahitian distillery T.I.E. Aged in French oak, each numbered bottle of rum comes from a single cask.

Mount Gay XO New Edition is rounded and complex with notes of salted caramel, baked fig, clove and dark chocolate.

Plunders Extra

52% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

Brandhouse

Plunders Extra is a rich, smooth Caribbean rum aged in ex-bourbon barrels and blended by hand. Designed to sip on the rocks.

Flor de Caña 18 YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Hancocks

As with all rums from Nicaraguan distillery Flor de Caña, this sugar-free ultra-premium rum is sustainably produced (carbon neutral and Fair Trade certified) and naturally aged without artificial ingredients, distilled with 100% renewable energy and Kosher certified. It has aromas of nuts and caramel with intense vanilla and spices on the palate and a long, smooth finish.

Lunatic & Lover Silver Botanical Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $129

Hancocks

This rum from Auckland distillery Lunatic & Lover uses molasses from the nearby Chelsea Factory as well as locally grown fruit and herbs, alongside more exotic spices. It’s described as a ‘botanical rum’ thanks to the use of vapour distillation. Aromas of bright citrus and clean herbal top notes from bay leaf and mairehau lead to a complex palate of baking spice, subtle heat and green pepper (courtesy of the horopito) that mellows into a warm earthiness and rich molasses finish where the quality of the base rum shines through.

Angostura 1824

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Federal Merchants

A blend of rums aged in charred American oak bourbon barrels for a minimum of 12 years then hand-picked by House of Angostura’s Master Blender from selected casks. These rums are then hand-blended and re-casked before being hand-drawn, filtered and bottled. The 1824 has rich aromas of vanilla, honey and warming spice followed by a long complex finish.

Appleton Estate 15YO Black River

Casks

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Thirsty Camel

A new release from Appleton Estate, this rum is aged for a minimum of 15 years and is a rare blend of pot and column-still rums. It has delicate spice and a rich and full-bodied finish with a fruity, subtle oak ending.

El Dorado Special Reserve 15YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Tickety-Boo

A cognac-like rum with a complex nose of dark coffee, candied orange, almonds, dark chocolate, pepper and rich vanilla. It’s silky and rounded on the palate, with flavours of grilled tropical fruit and smooth, oaky spice.

Goslings 151 Overproof

75.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $140

Federal Merchants

This overproof version of Goslings original Black Seal rum is described as “muscular, but refined.” Clocking in at 75.5% ABV (The ‘151’ refers to the US proof strength), it’s designed to enhance mixed drinks as opposed to serving neat; or its makers also suggest using it for flambéing desserts.

Angostura 1787

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Federal Merchants

A super-premium rum made from a blend of rums aged for a minimum of 15 years. It has aromas of banana, dried fruit and oak with top notes of apples. The medium-bodied palate has hints of dried prunes, sweet rounded oak and subtle toffee, leading to a long, crisp finish.

Doorly’s 14YO

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

This 14-year-old rum was produced at the award-winning Foursquare rum distillery on Barbados. The rum is a blend of pot and column still rums that have been aged predominantly in bourbon casks, as well as some Madeira casks, which help impart flavours of dark chocolate, red berries, tropical fruit and sweet spices.

Equiano Original Rum

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

A blend of Caribbean and African rums from Gray’s distillery in the Mauritius and Foursquare distillery in Barbados. This is a traditional style of rum, created without any additional sweetening, flavouring or enhancing. Full and rich with warm butterscotch, flowing caramel and a tang of orange and anise to finish.

Renegade Rum ‘New Bacolet Etudes’

55% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Produced by the team behind the Waterford distillery in Ireland, this exciting new cane rum comes from the Renegade Rum Distillery in Grenada, West Indies. This is a singular expression of sugar cane grown at the ‘New Bacolet’ farm and shows the spirit-forward style of the distillery. Distinctive notes of sugar cane juice and fermented qualities (apples) are followed by fruity toffee apple, raisin and freshly sawn sweet oak spice.

Renegade Rum ‘Pearls Etudes’

55% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA

Whisky Galore

Distilled from sugarcane juice grown at the Pearls farm in Grenada, West Indies, this brandnew expression from Renegade Rum Distillery celebrates the unique character of the cane grown around the island. Made in Renegade’s pot stills, this rum carries a distinctive aroma of fermenting sugar cane, apples being cooked and a vegetal note throughout. Sweeter tones of prune juice and exotic fruityness come through, finishing earthy and slightly phenolic.

RRP $150 and above

Lunatic & Lover Barrel Rested

Botanical Rum

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $155 Hancocks

The Lunatic & Lover Silver rum is aged six months in oak for this Barrel Rested expression. The oak melds a sweet and woody vanilla aroma with the rum’s orange top notes. The herbal element of the Silver remains, but is more subdued and integrated with the spice notes from the heavy barrel char. Deep, rich coffee and chocolate work with the tannins from the wood to dominate the finish.

Waiheke Imperial Rum 2019

38% ABV, 1L RRP $155

Waiheke Imperial

This limited-edition rum (only 500 litres were produced) is smooth and spiced with vanilla, cinnamon and ginger. Floral aromas develop into long notes of cinnamon, ginger biscuit, walnut and manuka honey.

Matusalem Gran Reserva 23

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $162.99

Thirsty Camel

This premium offering from Matusalem has subtle aromas of dried fruit, fresh honey and a floral hint over a sweet toffee base with notes of mango and exotic wood. The palate is creamy with liquorice, roasted almond, hazelnut and dried fruit. A sherry-like finish.

Goslings Old Family Reserve

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $169.99

Federal Merchants

The ultimate ‘after dinner’ rum. This expression is crafted from the same Bermuda blend as Black Seal, then aged for 16-19 years in charred oak barrels. It has a complex nose with leather, chocolate and a hint of pepper, and a smooth and elegant taste with traces of smoke, vanilla and cigar box. Each black bottle is hand-filled, hand-labelled and numbered, then stopped with a cork and covered in sealing wax – the same way the Gosling family first bottled their Bermuda rums in the early 1900s.

El Dorado Special Reserve 21YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $209.99

Tickety-Boo

Described as being for “true rum connoisseurs”, this 21-year-old rum has a nose of lush tropical fruit and spice with hints of honey and dark sugar. A round, mellow, full-bodied palate with rich flavours of fruit and spice.

Flor de Caña 25 YO

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $220

Hancocks

A full-bodied rum with aromas of vanilla, wood and dark cocoa. There are fruity notes of almond and nuts on the palate, with a full and long finish that lingers.

Appleton Estate Rare Blend 21YO

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $229.99

Thirsty Camel

A blend of select aged rums, all matured for at least 21 years. An intense aroma with spice, woody notes and delicate citrus. Notes of orange peel, deep vanilla, rich nutmeg, warm coffee, and cocoa. The finish is long and dry, with a brown sugar sweetness.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 86.

Appleton Estate Rare Blend 21YO has notes of orange peel, deep vanilla, rich nutmeg, warm coffee, and cocoa.

Saturdays ready to mix it up

NEW ZEALAND brand Saturdays has launched a new range of classic cocktail mixers designed for at-home mixologists.

The new line of liqueurs includes Peach Schnapps, Melon, Blue Curacao and Triple Sec and comes amid a resurgence of 80s cocktails like Blue Lagoon.

Pōkeno Whisky releases worldfirst totara finish single malt

PŌKENO WHISKY has launched the first ever single malt whisky to be matured in totara barrels as part of its new Exploration Series.

The distillery, south of Auckland, has New Zealand’s only working cooperage and the totara barrels were made on-site by its own Master Cooper, Scotsman Mike Tawse (pictured above right).

Pōkeno Whisky launched last year with a core range of single malts made with New Zealand ingredients and has also created single cask special editions and creative collaborations.

Founder Matt Johns says the new Pōkeno Exploration Series takes that a step further. “Our ambition through the Exploration Series has been to create an even deeper connection between our spirit and the essence of New Zealand. Totara is the tree that has built Aotearoa – traditionally used for waka, carvings, homes and food storage. Thanks to Mike’s unique skills, we can now add whisky barrels to this list.”

Tawse has handcrafted the world’s

SHOWCASE

first 200 litre totara barrels and given them a light toast and char. After an initial maturation in first fill bourbon casks, the whisky was transferred to these totara barrels for a second maturation period.

Pōkeno Totara Cask whisky has notes of creamy coconut, sweet-scented sap, ripe white peach and freshly cut wood on the nose, leading to bitter lemon, stone fruit and hints of dark chocolate with a long and sweet finish.

Alongside the Totara Cask, the Exploration Series also features two further expressions: the Pōkeno Triple Distilled and the Pōkeno Winter Malt.

Fewer than 2,000 bottles of each single malt have been made for global distribution, with around a quarter of each reserved for the New Zealand market. With the first 300 bottles of the Totara Cask presold to existing customers, only 100 bottles remain available for purchase from Pōkeno Whisky.

Pōkeno Whisky

ZOA Vodka triumphs at New Zealand Spirits Awards

TARANAKI-MADE ZOA Vodka was proud to receive the Trophy for Best Overall Vodka at the 2023 New Zealand Spirits Awards.

In its first entry to the competition, ZOA outscored a range of domestic and international premium vodka brands to secure this prestigious top award.

The ZOA range includes the elegant Trophy-winning ZOA Vodka, the bestselling ZOA Feijoa Vodka, and ZOA Kiwifruit Vodka. All are handcrafted in Taranaki using mineral spring water and luscious fresh fruit.

A zero-alcohol vodka to complement the range is due for release shortly.

ZOA Vodka is distributed by Makan Group and available through Tasman Allied Liquor and Gilmours.

Makan Distiller

Saturdays is branded in bright retro colours and features bold design to appeal to a contemporary audience. Each bottle also includes an easy-to-follow cocktail recipe.

Lizzy Yeo from Premium Liquor, the creators of Saturdays, says brightly coloured cocktails served in fun glassware with cute garnishes are a huge social media trend.

“Margaritas are one of the most trending cocktails right now, and when you’re making them at home, you need to buy two bottles of spirits (tequila and Triple Sec). I usually invest in an amazing tequila, but I hate spending another $60 - $80 on the Triple Sec. Saturdays gives you the option to mix that expensive tequila with an affordable Triple Sec and still create an incredible Margarita!”

The Saturdays range is RRP $19.99 (750ml).

Premium Liquor Co.

Or i al.

The stor y of H A Y M A N ’ S star ted way back in 1863, when our great-great-grandfather pioneered the distinctive taste of London Dry Gin Fast for ward 160 years, and the London Dry st yle has become the most popu lar gin on the planet. We’re stil l proud to put his origina l recipe in ever y bot t le

Rogue Society returns

AFTER FIVE years of public demand, Rogue Society Liquor is back on shelves around New Zealand.

Rogue Society is produced by Scapegrace Distilling Co., New Zealand’s largest independent spirits company, and was the original name of the brand from 2014-18 before a name change was required to enter international markets.

In that time, Rogue Society had become one of the country’s most loved and iconic spirits brands and has now returned, with the initial offering including its Signature Gin and Signature Vodka.

“Over the past five years, we’ve been bombarded by consumers and bartenders asking when we’re bringing back Rogue Society,” said Scapegrace Co-Founder Mark Neal. “The brand had such a special place in the hearts of consumers and so we had to listen to the people.”

Neal says the Rogue Society offering will be one of the only New Zealand distilled products retailing in the premium segment of the market. “We always wanted to introduce a local craft brand to take on this segment, which is dominated by mass produced international brands, and what better brand to disrupt this space than Rogue Society Liquor?”

Rogue Society Liquor is distilled differently to the Scapegrace spirits range and offers a completely different taste and flavour.

The Signature Gin features upfront juniper alongside a different unique botanical mix featuring local Gisborne grapefruit and Hawke’s Bay coriander. The Signature Vodka also has a different cut, which provides a buttery, clean, and velvety finish.

Scapegrace Distilling Co. will still be distilling its eponymous super-premium spirits portfolio and now offers Rogue Society Liquor as part of its wider product mix.

Scapegrace is also building New Zealand’s largest ever distillery project on the banks of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago where it will meet global demand across its luxury portfolio of Single Malt Whisky, Gin, Vodka and premium RTDs.

Rogue Society Liquor, 700ml RRP $54.99.

Hancocks

Fruity offering from Dabblers

REAL FRUIT is at the heart of Dabblers Gin, a range of naturally infused flavoured gins from Tauranga’s Dynamic Distilling. The gins have been developed by friends

Samuel and Adrian (two experienced food technologists with more than 20 years in the industry) and are designed for a flavoursome drinking experience and to make creative cocktail-making easier.

As well as using real fruit in their gins, the pair also pride themselves on not adding any flavours, colours or sugars.

The Dabblers range includes:

• Orange, Raspberry & Rhubarb Gin

• Lime & Mint Gin

• Summer Berry Gin

• Lemonade Gin

Dabblers gins are available in 500ml at RRP $69.99 and 200ml at RRP $34.99.

Find out more at dabblersgin.co.nz

A cocktail must-have

PUBLISHING HOUSE Phaidon is releasing a new landmark book, Signature Cocktails, which showcases 200 iconic drinks from around the globe and across history.

The book (releasing 26 September) is a beautifully photographed recipe collection that spans more than 500 years of legendary drinks, curated by New Yorkbased cocktail connoisseur Amanda Schuster in consultation with regional experts across the globe.

Each entry is accompanied by the name of the creator, place and date of invention, and spirit type, alongside the original recipe and a specially commissioned contemporary image of the drink. Schuster’s writing gives each cocktail valuable context and reveals the history, secrets, stories, and personalities behind each drink’s creation.

The hardback volume is organised chronologically and traces the cocktail’s development, starting with ‘Atholl Brose’ of 1475, created in the highlands for a Scottish Earl and made with oats, honey, and whisky. Contemporary concoctions range from the ‘Kyiv Sour’, served at the Parovoz Speakeasy in Ukraine, and the ‘Twin Cities’, invented at Dead Rabbit bar in New York. The book concludes with the ‘Phaidon 100’, a signature cocktail designed by legendary bartender Agostino Perrone from London’s award-winning Connaught Bar to celebrate Phaidon’s 100th anniversary.

The book also features legends of the bartending scene from years past as well as today’s creatives. A glossary details glassware, bar tools, and techniques, while an extensive index lets the reader search by cocktail name, bartender, establishment, city, country, and spirit.

Signature Cocktails (Phaidon) RRP $80 – out 26 September.

Gin collab from QT Hotels and Four Pillars

QT HOTELS and Australian craft distillery Four Pillars have teamed up to create Gilded Chaos Gin – offering consumers signature gin cocktails at the hotel’s Australasian sites and the chance to purchase a full-size bottle for at-home enjoyment.

The Gilded Elixir, created by Arish Khadka, Rooftop at QT Bar Manager, QT Auckland is a twist on the classic Martinez, a cocktail popular during the Gilded Age. The Gilded Elixir incorporates maraschino

liqueur and verjus and is served with a caramelised lemon wheel that the drinker can dissolve into the liquid for a touch of extra citrus and sweetness. QT bars and restaurants across New Zealand and Australia are now serving the limited-edition Gilded Chaos Gin and signature cocktails and it is also available to purchase by the bottle from QT at Home in Auckland and Wellington for RRP $110 (700ml).

qtathome.com

A forest tale from Glenmorangie

GLENMORANGIE HAS released its first whisky to be crafted from barley kilned with woodland botanicals: Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest. Now available in New Zealand, the new expression was inspired by the woodlands near the home of Glenmorangie’s head distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden.

After experimenting with kilning his barley using different botanicals, he selected juniper berries, birch bark and heather flowers, married with a little peat. He then aged it in bourbon casks, including many refill casks. The resulting spirit is described as having aromas of pine needles and juniper, laced with wisps of smoke. The taste is zesty and peppery with peppermint, menthol, eucalyptus, pine, wood sap, angelica, bitter orange and a hint of aromatic wood smoke. The long finish has tangy citrus notes of orange and lemon, with oak.

Illustrator Pomme Chan created the packaging design based on walks in forests near her own home in northern Thailand.

Glenmorangie Tale of the Forest – 46% ABV, 700ml RRP $189.99

Moët Hennessy NZ

Reefton Distilling Co. to supply whisky to Scotland

REEFTON DISTILLING Co. has become the first New Zealand distillery to sell whisky to the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) in Scotland.

The West Coast distillery has signed a multi-year contract with the SMWS, a membership organisation based in Edinburgh, which bottles and sells single cask, single malt whisky. It purchases individual casks from more than 150

malt whisky distilleries in Scotland and throughout the world, bottles them and retails directly to around 40,000 members globally.

Reefton Distilling Co. is the first New Zealand distillery to be selected for inclusion in this exclusive whisky society’s offering. The agreement will see the SMWS purchase minimum agreed volumes of Reefton Distilling Co.’s New-Make

Spirit (NMS) each year, for an initial three-year term.

Reefton Distilling Co. Chief Executive Patsy Bass says that being selected as the first New Zealand distillery to supply New-Make Spirit to the SMWS is a huge honour and achievement. “It highlights the quality of the New-Make Spirit we are crafting and exporting to the world, and we look forward to developing a long-term, successful relationship with the society and its members around the world.”

The NMS will be matured in SMWS casks at its bonded warehouses in Scotland, with some also matured in Reefton, allowing a comparison of how the spirit develops at each location. Each cask will yield a limited number of bottles, which will be released by the SMWS under its own label. Each of these limited releases will be available exclusively to their members.

Patsy Bass and Kai Ivalo, Scotch Malt Whisky Society Spirits Director

Champion Trophies at 2023 NZ Spirits Awards

THE CHAMPION Trophies in the New Zealand Spirits Awards 2023 were revealed in June, with New Zealand gins dominating the fiercely competitive Best Overall in Category awards.

In its fifth year, this year’s Awards attracted 426 entries from 24 countries –281 of those entries being products from New Zealand.

Gin was by far the biggest category by entries, with 241 submissions from local and international gin brands. The next biggest was Whiskey with 52 entries.

2023 NZ Spirits Awards - Champion Trophy Winners

WHISKEY – NORTH AMERICAN

Best Overall In Category - Jim Beam Black (USA)

WHISKY – TRADITIONAL (Scottish/ Irish)

Best Overall In Category - Talisker 10 (Scotland)

WHISKY – WORLD

Best Overall In Category - Wemyss Peat

Chimney Blended Malt (Wales)

Best New Zealand In Category - Waiheke

Whisky Cantankerous (Double Gold) (NZ)

GIN – LONDON DRY

Best Overall In Category - Clarity 2023 Gin (NZ)

GIN – CONTEMPORARY/ NAVY STRENGTH

Best Overall In Category - Roots

Norwester Navy Strength Gin (NZ)

Gins from New Zealand distillers Clarity, Roots, and Good George each won a Trophy for Best Overall in Category in the Gin section.

GIN – FLAVOURED/AGED

Best Overall In Category - Good George Distiller’s Series - Taurus - Orange Blossom and Manuka Honey (NZ)

RUM

Best Overall In Category - Bacardi Oro (Puerto Rico)

Best New Zealand In Category - National Distillery Company Golden Rum (NZ)

RUM – SPICED/BOTANICAL

Best Overall In Category - Plunders

Original Caribbean Rum

Best New Zealand In Category - Broken Heart Spirits – Broken Heart Spiced Rum

OTHER – LIQUEURS

Best Overall In Category - Barlovska –Blackberry (NZ)

OTHER – BOTANICAL AND OTHER SPIRITS

Best Overall In Category - Hastings

Distillers Rubis Rouge Vermouth (Double Gold) (NZ)

It was a particularly special win for Tauranga distillers and relative newcomers George White and Stephanie Downer – the Trophy for their Clarity 2023 Gin came just a month after their Clarity Dry Gin won Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Having only launched their gins in March this year, the pair said they were “…blown away by the award and humbled to have both their gins recognised so highly in the spirits world after being mere months in the market.”

OTHER – AGAVE SPIRITS

Best Overall In Category - Del Maguey Chichicapa (Mexico)

VODKA – VARIETAL

Best Overall In Category - ZOA Vodka (NZ)

VODKA – FLAVOURED/AGED

Best Overall In Category - Black Collar Chocolate Vodka (Double Gold) (NZ)

BRANDY – COGNAC

Best Overall In Category - Lheraud

Cognac VSOP Limited Edition No 2 (France)

BRANDY – BRANDY

Best Overall In Category - Rough Hands –Elsewhen Singularity (NZ)

EMERGING PRODUCT AWARD

Best Overall In Category - NZ Gin Day –Souvenir Gin

PACKAGING AWARD

Best Overall In Category - Strange Nature

Gin

Find the full medal and trophy results online at spiritsawardsnz.nz

George White and Stephanie Downer of Clarity Gin

New collection from Jameson and Dickies

JAMESON IRISH Whiskey and renowned fashion label Dickies have launched a new capsule collection called ‘Crafted Together’ – a collaboration designed to pay tribute to the rich heritage of workwear fashion and the ethos of craftsmanship that unites the two brands.

The collection dropped online in early July here and in Australia and includes signature pieces like the Dickies Eisenhower Jacket as well as overalls, beanies and caps. Some of the apparel features a new bespoke graphic paying homage to the original Jameson ‘Barrelman’ icon of the 1700s.

The Crafted Together campaign features the creators from the Jameson Whiskey and Dickies communities and was shot in Jameson’s historic Midleton Distillery in Cork.

“Jameson Irish Whiskey was founded in 1780, when workwear was the uniform of the working community, often seen in the local pub after a hard day’s work. Meanwhile, Dickies began its life in 1922 as an iconic, quality workwear brand. Craft and kinship underpin both brands and we are delighted to bring that shared ethos to life through the Crafted Together Jameson x Dickies collection,” says Trent Orange, National Sales Manager On Premise, Pernod Ricard.

See the collection at jamesonwhiskey.com/en-NZ/article/jamesonxdickies

Moonlight Creek Founders Casks on offer

WITH THE first casks of Reefton Distilling Co.’s initial single malt whisky offering filled and laid down in September 2022, the company is releasing 100 x 200L Founders Casks to market, and says it has had interest from as far afield as the UK and Europe.

Moonlight Creek private Founders Casks and Limited Edition 700ml ceramic crocks (handmade by a local master potter) bottled at cask strength, are available to pre-order direct from Reefton Distilling Co., for delivery from 2025 onwards.

The production and maturation of Moonlight Creek Whisky is being overseen by an independent panel of world-renowned whisky specialists. Panel members from both hemispheres include Michael Fraser Milne (New Zealand), Bill Lark (Australia), Sandy McIntyre (Scotland) and Polly Logan (Scotland).

Reefton Distilling Co.

Broken Heart retains title of NZ’s Best Spiced Rum

NEW ZEALAND distillery Broken Heart Spirits has won the Trophy for Best New Zealand Spiced/Botanical Rum in Category at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards – the second year in a row it has secured the coveted award.

Broken Heart Spiced Rum is made by Master Distiller Joerg Henkenhaf at his Queenstown distillery. It spends three years in the highest quality oak barrels, which he hand-selects. He uses a unique concoction of five delicately balanced spices to create a strong depth of flavour in the rum and a soft, lingering finish.

The sweet and spicy palate of Broken Heart Spiced Rum is exceptionally smooth and offers rich flavours of vanilla, cinnamon and caramelised orange.

Broken Heart Spiced Rum is part of the wider award-winning Broken Heart Spirits range, which includes several gin expressions as well as vodka, whiskey, liqueurs, brandy, and a new non-alcoholic botanical spirit.

Joerg Henkenhaf founded Broken Heart Spirits after the death of a close friend with whom he had created the gin that became the brand’s first release.

Broken Heart Spirits Spiced Rum is distributed by Giesen Group.

1919 Distilling 021 024 22067

1919distilling.com

Armada Spirits info@armadaspirits.co.nz armadaspirits.co.nz

Asahi Beverages NZ 09 298 3000 asahibeverages.co.nz

B Wine 027 374 1514 bwine.co.nz

Bach Brewing 09 390 0149 bachbrewing.co.nz

Badass Beverages hello@badassbeverages.co.nz badassbeverages.co.nz

Beam Suntory 0800 69 23 37 beamsuntory.com

Beverage Brothers 03 390 1377 beveragebrothers.co.nz

Black Market blackmarket.co.nz

Bootleg Brewery

021 205 6155 bootlegbrewery.co.nz

Brandhouse

0508 468 688 brandhouse.co.nz

Cambridge Road 06 306 8959 cambridgeroad.co.nz

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners 0800 262 226 ccep.com

DB Breweries

0800 746 432 db.co.nz

Dhall & Nash 0800 369 463 dnfinewine.com

El Gusano info@elgusanortd.com elgusanortd.com

Emerson’s 03 477 1812

emersons.co.nz

Emporium Brewing 03 319 5897

emporiumbrewing.co.nz

Distributors

Esk Valley 09 255 0666 eskvalleywines.com

EuroVintage

0800 388 766 eurovintage.co.nz

Federal Merchants

0800 846 824 federalmerchants.co.nz

Felton Road 03 445 0885 feltonroad.com

Frucor Suntory 0800 437 8267 frucorsuntory.com

Future Drinks Co. hello@drinkfuture.co.nz drinkfuture.co.nz

Giesen Group 03 344 6270 giesen.co.nz

Glengarry 0800 733 505 glengarry.co.nz

Good George freshbrew@goodgeorge.co.nz goodgeorge.kiwi.nz

Greenhill Beverages 027 2370 729 seltzers.co.nz

Grey Beard Trading 021 712 784 greybeardtrading@gmail.com

Hancocks 0800 699 463 hancocks.co.nz

Hi I.Q. Liquor Merchants 09 634 4202 hiiqliquor.co.nz

The Invisible Agency 022 0906 700 theinvisibleagency.co.nz

Invivo Wines

0800 468 486 invivowines.com

Jenny Dobson Wines 06 839 5780 winebyjennydobson.co.nz

Lion 0800 107 272 lionco.co

Makan Distiller 09 276 8185 makan.co.nz

Marisco 09 522 9684 marisco.co.nz

Maxim Wines 021 977 615 maximwines.co.nz

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

Mission Estate 06 845 9350 missionestate.co.nz

Moët Hennessy NZ 0800 226 650 moethennessy.com

Mucho Gusto Wine Co. info@muchogustowine.co.nz muchogustowine.co.nz

The National Distillery Company 06 833 7317 nationaldistillery.nz

Native Sparkling 027 581 9724 nativesparkling.nz

Negociants 0800 634 624 negociantsnz.com

No.8 Distillery no8distillery@gmail.com no8distillery.com

The NZ Rum Co. 09 281 0090 thenzrumco.nz

Pacific Coast Beverages 021 0393 155 pacificcoastbeverages.co.nz

Parrotdog 04 384 8077 parrotdog.co.nz

Peckham’s 022 543 2986 peckhams.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

Radburnd Cellars 027 721 5740 radburndcellars.co.nz

Redmetal Vineyards 027 552 6086 redmetalvineyards.co.nz

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

Sawmill Brewery 09 422 6555 sawmillbrewery.co.nz

Sprig + Fern 03 544 8675 sprigandfern.co.nz

Spy Valley 03 572 6088 spyvalleywine.co.nz

Squawking Magpie 06 878 1800 squawkingmagpie.co.nz

Stone Pony Wines orders@stoneponywines.co.nz stoneponywines.co.nz

Tasman Liquor Company orders@tasmanliquor.co.nz tasmanliquor.co.nz

Thirsty Camel customerservice@thirstycamel.co.nz thirstycamel.co.nz

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

Vintners NZ 0800 687 9463 vintners.co.nz

Waiheke Imperial 09 372 3192 waihekeimperial.com

Whisky Galore 03 377 6824 trade.whiskygalore.co.nz

Wine2Trade 021 1800 253 sue@wine2trade.co.nz

Zeelandt Brewery christopher@zeelandt.co.nz zeelandt.co.nz