More details have emerged of fast-growing Strange Nature gin’s duty-free distribution agreement with sector specialist Haleybrooke International to manage the New Zealand brand’s duty-free distribution throughout North, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
Haleybrooke International is owned by drinks industry veteran Patrick Nilson, who spent 26 years with then-industry-powerhouse Seagram.
Strange Nature, exclusive sponsor of our popular Strange Predictions readers’ contest, has enjoyed striking success in duty-free and domestic channels since its launch in October 2021.
Created during the COVID-19 lockdown by renowned New Zealand winemakers Giesen, the quirky super-premium gin has reinvented traditional gin using a grape-based spirit derived from New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
The clean white spirit is distilled with a single botanical, juniper, which imparts its distinctive flavour profile.
Strange Nature Gin is presented in a custom-designed bottle with a wooden closure and retails in duty free at US$55 for 1-litre.
Highlighting its swift rise, the brand has received numerous honours, including Best Contemporary Gin in the World and a 98/100 score at the 2024 International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Haleybrooke International President Patrick Nilson said: “What got my interest was when I saw what Strange Nature Gin was able to accomplish in only a couple of years in travel retail in Oceania and Asia Pacific with listings in 20 airports, including Changi, Qatar, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland, working with Heinemann, Lotte, Aelia and Avolta with good activations in the airports. My job now is to do the same in The Americas.”
Strange Nature Distilling General Manager and Co-Owner Rhys Julian added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Haleybrooke, a company with decades of experience in building brands within the duty-free channel.
“Their deep understanding of duty free in the Americas, coupled with their extensive network makes them an ideal fit for Strange Nature.
“At the same time, we are encouraged by the popularity of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in the USA. Given our shared origins and flavour profile, it’s a natural alignment that we believe will resonate strongly with American travellers.” ✈
