A SQUEEZE ON
whisky Spirits expert Tash McGill explores the increasingly diverse and challenging world of whisky.
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resh from judging The Drammys for 2022, the line-up of New Zealand whiskies entered told a story decades in the making. From the 30 year old Oamaruvian by the NZ Whisky Collection, to Thomson’s latest release Mixtape, the five year old barrel sample of 1919 Distilling’s Kirikiriroa and the upcoming Waiheke Whisky range – New Zealand whisky is definitely something to talk about. After all, the 16 entries represented only some of the full roster of whiskies being made in New Zealand. 16 THE SHOUT NZ – MAY 2022
Competition in the local market is about to heat up with the imminent release of Waiheke Whisky, with pre-release samples already performing exceptionally well in judging and assessment, and the New Zealand Spirit Awards just around the corner. In addition to longtime stalwarts Thomson and Cardrona Distillery, there are now readily-available brands on the market, ranging in profile from fresh and sweet to sherry and peat bombs, or balanced cask finishes using wine barrels. There is a deepening pool of flavour and profile to explore for those interested in exploring
Tash McGill is a spirits and hospitality writer who regularly hosts tastings and education classes for those wanting to know more about spirits and their uses – from cocktails to culinary food matches. She has been in the spirits and cocktail industry for more than 10 years, writing, tasting and judging competitions.