PREMIUM GIN, VODKA & WHISKY

If you ever wondered what the halfway point between the equator and the South Pole is, then I can tell you it runs right through the centre of craft spirit producer, Scapegrace Distilling Company’s land. They recently announced the arrival of a new electrode boiler distillery operation in Central Otago. Purported to be New Zealand’s largest distillery, they have already broken ground on the 36-hectare site getting the first of their 2,000 timber-built cask barrel halls staged. Adjacent to Lake Dunstan in the Cromwell basin, the views alone will make it worth the visit when the tasting room opens in November 2023. Be sure to take your good camera, too – the views of the lake, Mt Pisa and the Bendigo mountains are jaw-dropping.

If you’re not yet familiar with Scapegrace gin and vodka, they are fantastic. In my travels around Australasia and beyond I can easily spot the unique bottle shape and dark glass of the gin behind some of the best bars. If super premium gin and vodka interest you, then a soon-to-bereleased single malt whisky will be a good reason to travel to the region. They’ve been ageing some whisky already, so its new home sets the scene perfectly for age-worthy spirits. Mark your calendar for a visit, where I’m sure a grand opening along with a food and beverage experience awaits.