Scapegrace Distilling, New Zealand’s largest independent spirits company, is set to globally introduce its core whisky expressions to celebrate World Whisky Day on 18 May.
Named Anthem and Vanguard (ABV 46%), the single malt duo will be released in 20 markets worldwide.
Scapegrace Co-Founder Daniel McLaughlin described the expressions as “distinctly New Zealand” and the result of years of “meticulous development”.
McLaughlin said: “Internationally, this is an exciting day to be a whisky fan. We’re extremely proud of Anthem and Vanguard. The products showcase the best of New Zealand, having been distilled and cut with pristine New Zealand glacial waters and made using locally grown barley, including our distinct Manuka smoked variety.
“The end result is a highland malt-esk whisky which is rich, elegant and subtle. We’re thrilled to be offering these products around the world and are encouraging whisky fans to celebrate World Whisky Day by grabbing a bottle.”
Anthem and Vanguard’s smoky flavour comes from Manuka smoked malt, from New Zealand’s native Manuka plants, used as an alternative to peat.
McLaughlin explained: “The smokiness we get from Manuka is complex and dry, with eucalyptus, menthol and forest-floor-style notes. These intricacies help to bring a lighter and more versatile smoke to our whisky that also lets the cereal from our new make shine in a balanced profile.
“The Manuka plant is already well known internationally for its white and pink flowers that yield nectar for bees, resulting in the production of New Zealand’s famous Manuka honey.”
For the past three years, the distillery has offered limited-release whisky to the world, with Anthem and Vanguard as hero products of the brand.
McLaughlin added: “Globally there’s a huge demand for new world whisky (whisky made outside of Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Canada and the USA) so it’s an exciting time to be launching our core release and carving out the New Zealand chapter.
“This is a key step for us as we grow our whisky reputation internationally and we’re really pleased to be launching these products in 20 markets around the world.”
Scapegrace noted that its new distillery is nearing completion, set to be the largest-ever in New Zealand, which will allow the brand to significantly increase single malt production in the coming years.
Anthem
Cask Type: Virgin French Oak
Malt: New Zealand Smoked Manuka
ABV: 46%
Liquid: Natural colour and non-chill filtered
Tasting Notes: Spiced walnuts, cider apple & sweet hay
Vanguard
Cask Type: Virgin French Oak
Malt: New Zealand Laureate
ABV: 46%
Liquid: Natural colour and non-chill filtered
Tasting Notes: Poached pears, vanilla custard & Anzac biscuits ✈
