Drinksbiz November December 2025

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

Here comes the sun

I KNOW I'm getting older, but it really does feel more and more like I blink and another year has gone past. How are we nearly at the end of 2025?

Despite knowing that the inevitable ‘sleeps until Christmas’ countdown will soon appear in my social media feeds, this remains one of my favourite times of the year.

As I write, Labour Weekend has just been and gone, which always seems to be an unspoken signal for people to start sloughing off the year and getting ready for a bit more relaxation.

In our neighbourhood, the aroma of barbecue smoke hangs in the air in the weekends and you can hear the laughter

from backyard decks as friends and families get together.

This is the lead-in to what will hopefully be an incredibly busy summer period for the drinks industry. Because you really deserve it.

There’s no denying that times have been tough for business and in our feature

This is the lead-in to what will hopefully be an incredibly busy summer period for the drinks industry. Because you really deserve it.

on pg 32 we look at some research the IRD has done on the hospitality sector and the challenges it’s facing.

On a brighter note, it seems business confidence is on the up as we approach the end of the year, with more optimism around what’s to come. Couple that with the general consumer excitement that summer brings, and let’s cross our fingers for a busy and fruitful few months ahead.

Thank you, as always, for your support this year and best wishes from all of us at Drinksbiz for a safe and successful festive season. We’ll see you back in March!

Victoria.

Got something to share?

We’re always on the hunt for new products or product updates to tell our Drinksbiz readers about. If you’re launching a new brand, adding to your range, or have any other drinks-related news to communicate we’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line at victoria@drinksbiz.co.nz

My picks

Lindauer DOC Prosecco

Easy drinking, great value and delicious – this NZ/Italian collaboration from Lindauer will be on high rotate in my fridge when I host Christmas this year. (Pg 34)

McLeod’s Liquid Hop IPA

This beer from Northland brewery McLeod’s has all the summer flavours going on with bright and juicy mango, lime, and grapefruit. Lush and delicious. (Pg 56)

Teremana Añejo

This is the aged expression from the tequila range founded by actor Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson, which has won a slew of major awards since coming to market. Rich and complex with warm oak, vanilla and roasted agave. (Pg 72)

Karen

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Aperol rolls from après-ski to after-sea

Iconic European aperitivo Aperol is set to brighten Summer 25/26 with exciting activations

and a major new campaign...

APEROL KEPT spirits high and glasses bright through the colder months by transforming alpine culture in New Zealand and is now setting the stage for an even bigger summer to come.

This ski season, the Italian aperitivo brought the European après-ski ritual to the South Island’s most popular mountain destinations with the launch of the Aperol Ice Bars in partnership with NZSki and Canyon Brewing. The bold, bright bars have helped to redefine the alpine experience in Aotearoa.

Carved into the landscape at Mt Hutt, The Remarkables, and Coronet Peak, each Ice Bar was styled in Aperol’s unmistakable orange hue, complete with

curated menus, live DJs, and panoramic mountain views. The result was a taste of the Italian Alps with a distinctly Kiwi twist.

More than 20,000 Aperol Spritzes were served up in one season with Aperol emerging as the top-selling alcohol product across all NZSki mountains.

“Our goal was to take Europeanstyle ski culture in New Zealand to the next level,” says Phil Restall, Managing Director Campari NZ. “Aperol brings global recognition, a vibrant aesthetic, and an experience that’s already iconic across Europe. This partnership was about bringing that same energy to our slopes and creating something truly memorable for Kiwis over the winter months.”

Aperol in NZ - the key statistics*

• Over the last 12 months Aperol has sold 31.4% more volume than the previous year.

• Aperol’s availability has increased by +4.7% (WTD

Distribution) vs YA.

• Over the winter/off season (last 26 weeks) Aperol has become a more all year beverage (Growth of +24.8% volume vs YA).

And while the snow may be melting, Aperol’s signature orange energy is only just warming up. The brand is rolling straight from the mountains to the main centres with its biggest summer activation yet, the Aperoller, a vintage van that will take the spritz to the streets, beaches, and festivals nationwide.

Aperoller to headline Summer 2025/26

Launched in October, the Aperoller will headline New Zealand’s 2025/26 summer season with Auckland appearances at Bivacco in Viaduct Harbour during Melbourne Cup Week, Our House Festival at The Cloud, the ASB Classic, and the

• The Aperitif category has grown 13.3% in volume over the last 12 months, most of this growth has come from Aperol which accounts for 40% of sales.

• The Spritz Pack (Prosecco + Aperol) has also gained traction, growing at 54.7% in volume over the last 12 months vs YA.

*AC Nielsen up until 24/09/2025

“Aperol brings global recognition, a vibrant aesthetic, and an experience that’s already iconic across Europe.”

– Phil Restall, Managing Director Campari NZ

Sunsetter Festival. The tour then continues to the Whangamatā Summer Bar and back to Auckland for Synthony in the Domain, before heading south to Queenstown for the winter months.

“The Aperoller embodies everything Aperol stands for; shared moments that celebrate togetherness,” says Restall. “From city festivals to coastal bars, Aperol will be there, bringing Kiwis the perfect spritz all summer long.”

The Aperoller made its debut at Azabu Mission Bay, where media, hospitality partners, and trade guests enjoyed spritzes and the premiere of its bespoke soundtrack, Aperhour, a three-minute jazz-house track produced by Auckland musician Ethan Jupe, one half of the duo Dawson.

Jupe reimagined a nostalgic summertime melody into something fresh, modern, and unmistakably Aperol, layering in the sensory details that define the brand’s signature moment: the pouring of liquid, the clinking of glasses, the movement of ice, and the unmistakable “ahhh” that signals that first sip of an Aperol Spritz.

Major Aperol campaign launches November

Aperol’s New Zealand activity aligns with the brand’s global platform L’unico. Per Tutti. (“The One for Everyone”), a universal message celebrating Aperol’s role at the heart of social moments wherever they happen.

The campaign, which is kicking off with a global TVC, celebrates the irresistible “orange wave,” a contagious ripple effect as one Aperol Spritz inspires another. The TVC launches in New Zealand on TVNZ this November.

“It celebrates sociability, spontaneity, and the Italian way of life,” continues Restall.

The campaign also represents a significant local investment in year-round visibility, with “Aperitivo Hour” billboards across central Auckland, a new TVNZ media partnership featuring “Spritz Mode” product ads and 15- and 30-second commercials, SKY TV ASB Classic live broadcasts, premium magazine partnerships, as well as on-trade and off-trade activity.

Locally, creative executions featuring aperitivo pairing recipes will extend across organic and paid social media and influencer content to sustain momentum throughout summer and winter.

On-trade features Aperol activations led by a nationwide Blitz Squad driving trial and education across venues all over Aotearoa.

Off-trade includes retail in-store promotions and spritz relays with merchandise giveaways including bright orange bucket hats, ice-cube moulds, and glassware for Kiwis to recreate the Aperol experience at home.

These activities support Aperol’s refined strategic focus: recruiting beer, wine, and low-ABV drinkers into the spritz

category, educating a broader audience, and owning both summer and now winter. Aperol is positioning itself as the first drink choice, all year round.

Behind the activities lies a strong commercial engine. Aperol grew 52% in volume last summer*, maintaining its position as one of the fastest-growing brands in the Campari NZ portfolio.

The Aperol Spritz remains a top-selling cocktail across on-premise venues, driving foot traffic, social visibility, and incremental revenue for trade partners. Venue partners across the country ensure consistent brand delivery, menu compliance, and consumer experience.

“We want to be part of the moments that matter, wherever they happen, on the slopes or by the beach,” concludes Restall.

From après-ski to after-sea, Aperol is proving its year-round appeal. Whether served chilled on a sun-soaked deck or raised against snow-capped peaks, the orange spritz has become a symbol of joy, conversation, and connection.

Upcoming Aperoller appearances

• Bivacco Melbourne Cup Week, 4 Nov

• Our House Festival, 21 Nov

• ASB Classic Tennis, 5–18 Jan

• Sunsetter Festival Devonport, 31 Jan

• Whangamatā Summer Bar, 7–8 Feb

• Synthony in the Domain, 21 Mar

• South Island activity over the winter months

Aperol is distributed by Campari NZ.

Cuts coming for hospo red tape

HOSPITALITY NEW Zealand and the Restaurant Association have welcomed the Government’s announcement that the hospitality industry will be the focus of the next Ministry of Regulation industry review.

Minister of Regulation, Hon David Seymour, and Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Louise Upston announced in October that the review would focus on regulations that apply to restaurants, bars, cafés, food stalls at markets, food trucks, catering businesses and hotels.

“New Zealand’s hospitality industry has been facing many challenges and complex rules and unnecessary regulations are making it even more difficult for one of our biggest earning industries to reach its full potential,” said Louise Upston.

“This review will improve hospitality rules so they’re working as they should – cutting red tape, keeping costs down, managing risks, and making compliance easier. We need to give our business owners the best chance at success.”

Hospitality NZ Interim Chief Executive, Nick Keene, said, “We’re pleased to see recognition of the significant regulatory and compliance pressures on the hospitality sector, and the complicated nature of the legislation that governs how we operate.

“We know that across our respective memberships, the rules and regulations operators face place a strain on investment and employment decisions, and the ability to grow the sector as a whole.”

Mission Estate

CEO to step down

MISSION ESTATE CEO Peter Holley has announced that he will be stepping down from his role after nearly 30 years, due to health reasons.

In a statement announcing the news in September, Mission Estate said that Peter Holley had provided long and dedicated service and been a cornerstone of the Mission’s growth and evolution, guiding the organisation through decades of transformation, innovation, and success. It said his leadership had been instrumental in “shaping the Mission into the internationally respected and forward-looking organisation it is today”.

Peter Holley will work with the Board to support a leadership transition over the coming months as it identifies and appoints the next CEO for Mission Estate.

Restaurant Association Chief Executive, Marisa Bidois, said, “This regulatory review is something we’ve been jointly asking for since the 2024 Hospitality Summit, and it’s pleasing to see our voice has been heard.

“We have a unique opportunity to support a comprehensive look at the red tape holding our industry back and expect a strong set of recommendations that will support hospitality’s growth into the future.”

Submissions close at midnight on November 12 and a final report will be delivered to Ministers for consideration by April 2026.

Find out more at regulation. govt.nz/regulatory-reviews/ hospitality-sector-review/

Lion announces new CEO and ANZ structure

LION HAS announced a new CEO and structure that combines Lion’s Australian and New Zealand operations under a single Lion ANZ Leadership Team.

Anubha Sahasrabuddhe, Lion’s Chief Growth & Commercial Officer and the co-leader of Lion Australia, has been appointed as Lion’s new Chief Executive Officer. Anubha joined Lion in 2021 following senior leadership roles at The Coca-Cola Company and Mars Wrigley across Asia Pacific and North America.

Lion’s current New Zealand Managing Director, Craig Baldie, has been appointed to a new role

of Chief Operating Officer and New Zealand Country Director. In this role Craig Baldie will take on an expanded portfolio of responsibilities including Strategy, Digital & Technology and Sustainability, and he will continue to lead the Sales & Marketing teams in New Zealand.

Lion says that its United States businesses, New Belgium Brewing and Distinguished Vineyards, have grown to a point of scale and maturity where they can report directly to KIRIN, allowing Lion to focus its full attention and investment on Australian and New Zealand customers.

New owners for Drinksbiz

DRINKSBIZ MAGAZINE is under new ownership, with Alefiah and Rohit Tolani purchasing the publication from Trade Media Limited in October 2025.

The existing editorial and design team remain with Drinksbiz but it marks the end of an era for Trade Media Limited, which under GM Roger Pierce and publisher Karen Boult, has owned the business since 2010.

Under Alefiah and Rohit’s stewardship, Drinksbiz will continue to celebrate the success of New Zealand’s drinks industry while exploring new opportunities to grow its digital presence and engage a wider audience. Their vision is to ensure the magazine remains the leading voice for producers, distributors, and hospitality professionals nationwide.

“We’re honoured to take the reins of such a respected publication,” says Rohit Tolani. “Drinksbiz has built a trusted reputation over the years, and we’re excited to build on that foundation while bringing fresh ideas and new energy to the brand.”

Alefiah Tolani added, “Our vision is to celebrate the people and stories behind New Zealand’s drinks industry – from established producers to emerging innovators – and to continue providing valuable insights and inspiration for our readers and partners.”

Govt to boost tourism and events

HOSPITALITY NEW Zealand has welcomed an announcement by Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Louise Upston, that the Government will be investing $70 million into tourism and events attraction.

Minister Upston said that the investment combines “...a significant injection of new money with existing funding to create a critical mass to help events and tourism grow.”

The package includes:

• a $40 million Events Attraction Package to secure large-scale international events from 2026.

• a $10 million Events Boost Fund to support existing events and attract international opportunities.

• a $10 million Regional Tourism Boost Campaign to incentivise international visitors.

• up to $10 million for tourism infrastructure upgrades including cycle trails.

Nick Keene, Hospitality NZ’s Interim Chief Executive, says the funding will return direct benefit to the hospitality sector.

“Large-scale events play a crucial role in supporting New Zealand’s economy, particularly for industries like ours that rely on visitor spending.

“Major events drive demand across the host city, from hotel bookings to restaurants, bars and cafés. The flow-on benefits touch almost every part of the hospitality sector and often encourage people to travel to New Zealand and travel beyond the event location.

“We also welcome the Regional Tourism Boost campaign and funding for tourism infrastructure upgrades. Driving regional visitation ensures tourism’s benefits can be felt across the country.

“While the announcement is an excellent acknowledgement of the role major events can play in economic growth, they often have a long lead time. Acknowledging the funding is intended for events starting next year, sustained investment is key to ensure long-term attraction of major events is prioritised.

Louise Upston says most of the announcement is intended to deliver events beginning in 2026 with some of the attraction package funding spread over two years to allow for contractual flexibility if needed.

The full package will be rolled out over the next two years, with further announcements on events and infrastructure projects expected by the end of 2025.

Kono closes Hop Federation

MOTUEKA-BASED CRAFT brewery Hop Federation is closing following a strategic review by Kono NZ LP.

Kono General Manager Marina Hirst Tristram says the decision wasn’t easy and reflects a deliberate focus across the commercial businesses of Kono. “Hop Federation has always been about great beer, good people, and being part of something local and meaningful,” says Hirst Tristram.

“This decision doesn’t reflect the mahi of our team or the

quality of our beer – it’s about ensuring our businesses are values-aligned, positive financial contributors and have futurefocused viability.”

Hop Federation was founded in 2013 by Simon and Nicki Nicholas and acquired by Kono NZ LP in March 2020.

Hop Federation was winding down its brewing operations in October, but its beers will continue to be distributed –both in kegs and cans – across New Zealand until 2026.

In a statement announcing

the closure, Kono NZ said that like many in the craft beer, hospitality and retail sectors, Hop Federation has navigated a changing landscape over the past few years – from rising costs to evolving consumer habits. It says these shifts feed into a continuous review of Kono businesses focused on long-term sustainability.

“While it’s sad to say goodbye, we’re proud of the team and what they’ve created – really great beer,” says Marina Hirst Tristram.

Federal’s Michael Morton becomes a Keeper of the Quaich

FEDERAL’S MANAGING Director Michael Morton has been inducted into the exclusive international society known as the Keepers of the Quaich at a ceremony in Scotland.

The Keepers of the Quaich recognise, reward and celebrate those who have shown outstanding commitment to the Scotch Whisky industry.

Morton is the 8th New Zealander to receive the honour, joining an international society of over 3,000 Keepers from more than 100 countries.

The Society’s mission is to celebrate the values and image of Scotch Whisky. It takes its name from the traditional two-handled drinking cup, described in Scotland’s ancient Gaelic language as a ‘cuach’ or quaich, a vessel long associated with friendship and the enjoyment of Scotch Whisky.

Potential candidates must have worked in the industry for at least seven years and can be nominated only by existing Keepers or Masters, Founding Partners, Member

Companies or an appointed officer representing an International Chapter.

New Keepers and Masters are inducted at a private ceremony held twice a year when the Society meets in the Scottish Highlands at Blair Castle, the ancient and historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Atholl, and home to the only legal private army in Europe, the Atholl Highlanders. The infantry regiment plays a pivotal role in the Ceremony of Induction.

Michael Morton attended the 70th Keepers of the Quaich Autumn

2025 Banquet, held at Blair Castle in early October.

“It was very humbling to be nominated and inducted as a Keeper,” says Michael. “The ceremony in Scotland was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Despite being as far away from Scotland as you can get, we have a thriving Scotch category here in New Zealand, and I love sharing some of the best drams in the world with local whisky lovers.”

keepersofthequaich.co.uk

NZ Winegrowers CEO to retire in 2026

NEW ZEALAND Winegrowers

CEO Philip Gregan has announced he’ll retire in June 2026, marking 43 years of service to the New Zealand wine industry.

Philip Gregan commenced his career in the industry in 1983, joining the Wine Institute as the organisation’s Research Officer straight out of university. In the early 1990s, he was appointed CEO of the Wine Institute, playing an

integral role in New Zealand wine’s international trade negotiations, which resulted in the formation of the World Wine Trade Group. In 2002, the Wine Institute merged with the Grape Growers Council to form New Zealand Winegrowers Inc, and Gregan was appointed CEO of the new organisation.

The New Zealand Winegrowers Board has extended its deep gratitude to Philip Gregan for his

contribution and lifelong commitment to the industry.

“This remarkable tenure reflects a working lifetime of unwavering commitment and immense contribution,” said Board Chair Fabian Yukich.

“Philip advised the Board of his intentions some time ago. This announcement reflects his consideration to ensure sufficient time to appoint a suitably qualified successor and allow for a seamless handover.”

What’s on

NOVEMBER

Friday 14 November

2025 Marlborough Wine Show

A celebration of the Marlborough wine industry and announcement of the 2025 Marlborough Wine Show trophies. marlboroughwineshow.com

Saturday 22 November

Harvest Hawke’s Bay

Champion Brewery 2025 winners Brave Brewing join 18 Hawke’s Bay wineries for a day of beer, wine and food in a riverside setting on Tuki Tuki Road. harvesthawkesbay.com

Saturday 22 November

South Island Beer Festival

Breweries from around Te Waipounamu will be at Ilam Homestead for a familyfriendly day of beer sampling and live music. sibf.nz

JANUARY 2026

Saturday 24 January

Gindulgence – Wellington

The popular boutique gin festival has expanded its scope this year to include rum, vodka, whisky, liqueurs and other spirits in its line-up. To be held at Waitangi Park. gindulgence.co.nz

Saturday 31 January

The Great Kiwi Beer Festival –Christchurch

More than 35 Kiwi breweries are scheduled to showcase their brews at Hagley Park, with workshops, tasting seminars and live entertainment. greatkiwibeerfestival.co.nz

New Chief Exec at Hospitality NZ

KRISTY PHILLIPS has been appointed by Hospitality New Zealand as the next Chief Executive of the association.

Phillips started the role in November, having previously been Hospitality New Zealand’s National Chair. She has enjoyed a long career in hospitality, including owning and operating her own restaurants in Timaru for 14 years. She has been on the Hospitality New Zealand board since 2018, taking on roles including Vice President and Chair of the Finance Committee prior to being appointed National Chair, and was previously South Canterbury Branch President.

Troy Clarry, Vice Chair and Chair of the National Committee’s recruitment panel, said Phillips’ deep understanding of the industry and long connection with the organisation set her in good stead for the Chief Executive role. “I’m

pleased Kristy will be transitioning into the operational side of Hospitality NZ and can bring her wealth of hospitality experience to the role. Kristy has played an integral role around our board table and has a clear understanding of what members need from the organisation and the opportunities ahead.”

New Managing Director for DB

DB BREWERIES has announced the appointment of Peter Hart as Managing Director. Hart succeeds Matt Wilson, who has led DB since 2021 and decided earlier this year to step away from the business.

Peter Hart started his career at Allied Liquor Merchants in the (then) Spirits & Wines division of DB Group. He was responsible for the launch of New Zealand’s first branded RTD, later moving to the brewery to lead the marketing relaunch of DB Draught – DB’s largest brand at the time – and oversaw the launch of Heineken in New Zealand.

Hart has 15 years of international experience working directly for Heineken across three continents, including leadership roles in Amsterdam and South Africa. He was most recently the founder and CEO of South Africa’s #1 independent beer and spirits distribution business.

Suntory Oceania appoints alcohol sales team

AS SUNTORY Oceania approaches its January 2026 launch, it has announced the licensed sales leadership team to lead its alcohol portfolio.

Stevee Evans, Joe Kurukaanga, Josh van Wyk, and Michelle Kerr-Viljoen will join Jared Chamberlain’s licensed sales division, finalising Suntory Oceania’s multibeverage sales leadership.

They will work alongside Deb Cooper, Non-Licensed Sales Director NZ, and the non-alcohol division, to deliver a unified customer approach across more than 40 brands.

Suntory Oceania’s go-live date of January 2026 is when the business will manage end-to-end manufacturing, sales, and distribution across premium spirits, RTDs, soft drinks, energy drinks, and water for the first time in New Zealand.

To support this transformation, Suntory Oceania has grown its New Zealand sales

team to more than 150 people, including more than 30 new team members dedicated to licensed sales.

It says the team is working closely with customers to complete onboarding ahead of January, ensuring no disruption to supply of brands such as Jim Beam, Canadian Club, V Energy and Pepsi during the busy summer trading period.

Our ‘Industry Updates’ series spans New Zealand’s beer, cider, wine, and spirits sectors.

New Zealand Winegrowers

Sarah Szostak, NZ Winegrowers Events Lead and Major Events Executive Officer, says events play a crucial role in strengthening the industry...

WHETHER EXPANDING global networks or strengthening national connection, NZ Winegrowers events are designed to create meaningful impact and value for members.

As the national industry body, NZW plays a vital role in promoting, protecting, and enhancing the global reputation of New Zealand wine. Through strategic events and export market initiatives, NZW highlights the quality and diversity of our wine, fosters valuable connections, and supports members to tell their unique stories to the world.

Alongside my Events Lead role, I’m seconded to deliver industry Major Events. The Major Events are crafted by industry, for industry, led by a Chair and diverse committee from within our membership. Most recently, Pinot Noir New Zealand 2025 (PNNZ25) and next, Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027.

What sets Major Events apart is their premium quality and global reach. NZW’s support ensures a contingent of high-impact international guests including influential voices, decision-makers, and icons who attendees would otherwise have to travel the world to meet. Major events play a vital role in ensuring the New Zealand wine story is shared with the world. NZW’s guests at PNNZ25 significantly exceeded expectations, generating over $9 million in earned advertising value and amplifying our global reach.

In February 2027, Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand, held in Wairau, Marlborough, will be a bold, immersive celebration of the diversity, quality, and cultural heritage behind our number one export. The experience will provide a platform to celebrate what makes our flagship varietal uniquely New Zealand.

With a programme to engage the next generation of global influencers and broaden perceptions, Sauvignon 2027 will spark thought-leading conversation, content, and real commercial value.

Winery Participation and Partnership opportunities are open now, so get in touch and be part of the story – email events@ sauvignonnz.com

nzwine.com

“In

February 2027, Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand will be a bold, immersive celebration of the diversity, quality, and cultural heritage behind our number one export.”

Fruit Wine & Cider Makers Association

FWCMA Chair, Jody Scott, explains why cider deserves more space in your summer menu refresh...

SUMMER DRINKS lists are evolving, yet cider often remains an overlooked option behind the bar. While wine and beer menus are expansive – showcasing nuanced reds, crisp whites, hoppy IPAs, and fruity sours – cider selections frequently linger at just one or two familiar names. This underrepresentation does a disservice both to venues and to customers seeking choice, diversity, and refreshment.

“A thoughtfully curated cider section not only meets consumer demand for variety but also positions your establishment as a forward-thinking destination for summer refreshment.”

Cider is far from a onenote beverage. Across New Zealand, producers are crafting a stunning spectrum of styles: from complex, tannin-rich traditional ciders, to vibrant, fruit-forward blends. Sweetness, acidity, and tannin structure vary widely, offering venues the chance to curate menus as dynamic as any wine or beer list.

The recent 2025 NZ Cider Awards highlight this diversity. Winners range from crisp, orchard-driven classics to experimental blends; each reflecting the skill and creativity of our cider makers. These accolades are more than industry recognition; they are a roadmap for venues eager to excite customers with seasonal, refreshing options. By expanding cider offerings, venues can allow multiple ciders to shine side by side. A thoughtfully curated cider section not only meets consumer demand for variety but also positions your establishment as a forward-thinking destination for summer refreshment.

This season, consider giving cider the prominence it deserves. With styles, flavours, and provenance that rival wine and beer, cider is ready to take centre stage... and your summer menu should too!

fwcma.org.nz

Distilled Spirits Aotearoa

As 2025 draws to a close, Chair of Distilled Spirits Aotearoa, Sarah Bonoma, reflects on the progress and challenges shaping New Zealand’s distilling industry...

DISTILLED SPIRITS Aotearoa (DSA) represents the growing community of spirit makers in New Zealand, from small regional distilleries to larger independent producers, united by a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity.

Our focus this year has remained on what matters most to distillers: fair and workable excise settings, clearer compliance pathways, and the continued professionalisation of our sector. We launched a successful monthly webinar series connecting members with experts across business, technical, and export topics. We also introduced a new member database and website platform to streamline communication and engagement.

A major milestone has been our national data survey project – the first of its kind for New Zealand distilling – capturing insights into production, employment, and excise contributions. This evidence base will strengthen our advocacy, inform policy discussions, and help us tell the story of an industry contributing meaningfully to regional economies and Aotearoa’s export future.

DSA’s strength lies in collaboration. By bringing together distillers, suppliers, educators, and government stakeholders we’re building a framework where New Zealand spirits can thrive responsibly, sustainably, and with integrity. Our members aren’t just making great products; they’re building an industry that reflects the creativity and resourcefulness of Aotearoa itself.

Looking ahead to 2026, our priorities are clear: to keep pushing for excise reform, to support capability and compliance, and to grow recognition for New Zealand-made spirits both at home and abroad. With collaboration at our core, the foundations for a world-class distilling industry are firmly in place. distilledspiritsaotearoa.org.nz

“A major milestone has been our national data survey project – the first of its kind for New Zealand distilling – capturing insights into production, employment, and excise contributions.”

Brewers Guild of NZ

As you sell and serve local brews this summer, spare a thought for the pressure beneath the pour, says Brewers Guild Executive Director Melanie Kees...

AS SUMMER approaches and we start seeing an uptick in road trips, long lunches, and lazy afternoons around the barbecue, there’s never been a better time to promote local and support Kiwi-brewed beer.

Whether you’re a brewer, liquor retailer, bar or restaurant, it’s the season to spread the word about your taproom, encourage customers to try a new brewery brand, or use the NZ Ale Trail to help them map out a weekend of flavour and connection. Every pint poured is a chance to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and community spirit that define our brewing industry.

“Let’s keep celebrating what makes New Zealand beer so special.”

But behind the scenes, our brewers continue to navigate a wave of regulatory reviews that could reshape how we do business. From the Ministry of Regulations’ product labelling and hospitality reviews, to the Customs review and FSANZ’s finalisation of P1059 (Energy Labelling), the pressure of change is always there. For small producers, these changes aren’t just policy, they are often confusing and costly.

Understanding the implications, implementing new standards, and absorbing the financial impact takes time and energy, resources that, for many small business owners, are already stretched thin. That’s why organisations like the Brewers Guild matter. We engage with regulators, write submissions, and advocate for fair, proportionate outcomes that reflect the reality of brewing in Aotearoa.

So as you brew, sell or pour great Kiwi beers this summer, know that you’re part of an industry that contributes to tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, and regional vibrancy. You’re supporting businesses that show up for their communities, innovate under pressure, and fight for recognition in a crowded policy landscape.

Let’s keep celebrating what makes New Zealand beer so special. Serve and sell local. Support your brewers. And know that every visit, every purchase, and every conversation helps build a stronger, more sustainable future for our industry. brewersguild.org.nz and nzaletrail.com

Brewers Association NZ

Spirits New Zealand

The current hospitality regulatory review is a vital moment for New Zealand beer, says Executive Director of the Brewers Association, Dylan Firth...

THE BREWERS Association of New Zealand welcomes the Government’s Hospitality Regulatory Review as a critically timed opportunity to address long-standing regulatory settings that unintentionally undermine the viability of bars, pubs and restaurants: the very social infrastructure of our communities.

Hospitality is facing relentless pressure. Compliance costs have increased, licensing processes remain slow and inconsistent, and rules often block innovation – from outdoor service areas to the treatment of zero alcohol. Meanwhile, beer consumption has shifted dramatically from on-premise to off-premise over the past two decades. That matters, because beer (particularly draught beer) is a cornerstone of on-premise value. It drives foot traffic, food sales, and the social experience that cannot be replicated at home.

“The average keg of beer served across the bar is made up of nearly 50% tax once GST and excise are combined.”

Yet current regulations actively disadvantage the very product that is most economically and socially valuable to hospitality. The average keg of beer served across the bar is made up of nearly 50% tax once GST and excise are combined, an extraordinary burden on a venue-based product that delivers local employment, vibrancy, and controlled consumption environments. Unlike New Zealand, countries such as Australia and the United Kingdom apply a separate, lower excise rate for keg beer to recognise its lower risk profile and its importance to the hospitality economy.

A keg-specific excise rate does not remove excise. It rebalances it in favour of the value-creating, supervised on-premise channel. And because a pint in a pub is sold at a higher price point than supermarket beer, GST revenue per drink is higher. Meaning the fiscal impact is partly offset even before accounting for economic activity uplift.

This review is a once-in-a-decade chance to modernise regulation, support responsible hospitality growth, and recognise beer’s central role in New Zealand’s social and economic fabric. brewers.org.nz

Spirits NZ CEO Robert Brewer asks if calls to limit the alcohol industry’s input into policy-making are fair...

RECENTLY, A health advocacy group sent an open letter to government demanding that the beer, wine and spirits industry be ruled out of law-making discussions relating to alcohol harm reduction.

So you’re aware, this same group advocates for price increases through increased taxation or through minimum pricing, as well as the banning of marketing and advertising and sponsorship.

The letter (signed by 60+ other organisations) followed a sustained push by Radio New Zealand on a similar theme. RNZ pointed at the alcohol industry meeting with health officials as they developed various policies in our area as being inappropriate (my word), with the suggestion being that we shouldn’t be allowed inside the Health Ministry’s front door.

My point in raising all this is not to try and gainsay it but to, perhaps, have you think about what a wonderfully democratic country we live in, particularly in a world gone a bit crazy and where Western democratic systems seem a bit frayed in places right now.

In my view, a free democratic society such as New Zealand’s means that you can be making your views known in as cogent and relevant a way as possible, while next to you is someone else making the opposite points.

Officials who write good policy listen to everyone potentially affected, weigh up what they hear, balance it against evidence (or go and find more if needed) then make recommendations to government. Government then decides what it thinks will work and passes laws as a result.

It seems that some feel we shouldn’t have a voice, however. My view is that this is simply undemocratic. I’ll let you decide if you agree or not.

spiritsnz.org.nz

“My point in raising all this is not to try and gainsay it but to, perhaps, have you think about what a wonderfully democratic country we live in.”

Celebrations for Young Vit and Young Winemaker 2025

New Zealand’s top Young Viticulturist and Young Winemaker have been named after rigorous nationwide competitions...

FOLLOWING SEVERAL months of competitions held around New Zealand, the 2025 titles for Young Viticulturist and Young Winemaker were announced at the New Zealand Wine 2025 Celebration Dinner in Christchurch in late August.

Ruby McManaway from Yealands, Marlborough became the 2025 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year and Anna Kelland from Constellation Brands was named the 2025 Young Viticulturist of the Year.

The Young Winemaker national finals were held at Lincoln University, and the Young Viticulturist national finals were held at Greystone in Waipara.

Nick Putt from Craggy Range was the runner-up in the Young Viticulturist finals and Georgia Mehlhopt from Greystone placed third. Also competing were Damon Lovell from Carrick and James Sutcliffe from Craggy Range, Wairarapa.

The other Young Winemaker finalists were Dingying Jiang from Kahiwi and Thalia Osborne from Ash Ridge.

The national finals represent a significant step up from the qualifying regional finals, and competitors were tested on the wide range of skills and knowledge required to be an aspiring winemaker or viticulturist.

For the Young Winemakers, this included the Constellation Brands Laboratory Section and the Indevin Wine Judging section, both of which were won by Ruby McManaway. The competitors also gave a presentation comparing international sustainable wine programmes with the Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ) programme, which has been leading the way for 30 years. They finished by delivering their Fruitfed Supplies speeches

at the Celebration Dinner. This was also won by Ruby McManaway.

The challenges for the Young Viticulturists included trellising, machinery, an interview and a mock vineyard tour to discuss soil, nutrition and hot topics in the wine industry. They also undertook some research to find a gap for potential innovations in viticulture. They went head-to-head in the BioStart Hortisports and finally delivered their speeches to a large industry crowd at the New Zealand Wine 2025 Wine Business Forum in late August.

Georgia Mehlhopt won best research report and presentation; Nick Putt won the Ecotrellis Best Trelliser, and James Sutcliffe the BioStart Hortisports.

Anna and Ruby each received amazing prize packages for their overall title wins. Anna’s includes an Ecotrellis Travel Grant,

Congratulations Anna and Ruby!

a leadership week and cash prizes, while Ruby’s includes a visit to the Tonnellerie de Mercurey cooperage in France, where she will learn how oak from the best forests in France is treated, toasted and carefully crafted into barrels. 2023 winner, Alena Kamper from Sacred Hill, recently enjoyed her trip to France.

Ruby also wins a role as Associate Judge at the New World Wine Awards, and the opportunity to guest review wines in this issue of Drinksbiz (see opposite).

“It’s exciting to see so many talented young people coming through in both winemaking and viticulture”, says Nicky Grandorge, Leadership & Communities Manager at New Zealand Winegrowers. “They are passionate, talented and excited about being part of the New Zealand wine story. It’s very reassuring to know the future is in great hands.”

GUEST WINE REVIEWER Young Winemaker 2025

Ruby McManaway of Yealands in Marlborough recommends three new wines for store shelves and summer wine lists.

2024 The Empress Chilled Red

RRP

$52

Siren Wine

A burst of raspberry and wild strawberry jumps from the glass, wrapped in a medium ruby glow. This wine by Ashleigh Barrowman of Siren Wine has aromas of redcurrant and pomegranate, while a lift of rose petal adds layers. The palate is concentrated with juicy red fruits – raspberry and tart cherry – carried by bright acidity and electric energy. Chalky tannins bring texture without weight, finishing with a savoury edge that pulls it all together. A bright, contemporary take on chilled red: refined, refreshing and perfectly pitched for warm-weather drinking.

2023 Secano Chardonnay

RRP $50

Ripple Effect Wines

“Secano”, Spanish for “dry land”, reflects the dry-farming that underpins this Chardonnay, shaping fruit of intensity and character. This new release opens with golden stone fruit and lemon zest, layered with flint and a graphite edge. The palate is pure and precise with bright acidity, and a strong mineral line that gives clarity and focus, while citrus and orchard fruits keep it fresh. Ageing for 19 months in French oak, with 15% new, brings a savoury, nutty nuance without compromising vibrancy. Balanced, contemporary and refined, this Chardonnay speaks clearly of its site.

Super Liquor launches loyalty programme with Cashpoints

SUPER LIQUOR has launched a new data-driven loyalty programme with New Zealand’s own Cashpoints.

Cashpoints is a new coalition loyalty programme built in New Zealand and designed to be the simplest rewards programme in market for customers.

Super Rewards at Super Liquor with Cashpoints started on October 13th, with over 190 stores proud to be the liquor retail partner from day one.

Morgan McCann, CEO Super Liquor says: “Cashpoints enables us to truly understand our customers. It is a major step forward in data-driven retail for our industry which will enable us to work smarter with our partners and suppliers. These insights will allow us to deliver personalised offers and better experiences while still rewarding the loyalty of those who shop with us today.

“We’re really excited about what it will unlock for our franchisees as part of our new strategy and the support we have received already from them and their teams is outstanding – it has exceeded my expectations.”

The opportunities delivered through the Cashpoints programme will provide a competitive advantage for Super Liquor and is a major step forward in data-powered retail for the liquor retail industry.

2025

Yealands Single Vineyard

Albariño

RRP $32.99

Yealands

Fresh and focused, this Albariño opens with citrus and stone fruit notes that feel clean and precise rather than showy. There’s a gentle saline edge that nods to the coast, giving the wine shape and tension. The palate balances bright nectarine and lemon peel with a savoury undertone that adds interest without weighing it down. A long, dry finish makes it a natural match for seafood, though it has enough character to hold its own without food. Smart, refreshing, and built for more than one glass.

Celebrating bubbles

Saverglass and the art of sparkling wine bottles

FROM CHAMPAGNE to méthode traditionnelle, sparkling wines demand a bottle that embodies both technical performance and aesthetic distinction. For decades, Saverglass has set the global standard in premium glass packaging, offering winemakers beautiful designs that honour craftsmanship while elevating brand identity.

Saverglass’ collection for sparkling, semisparkling, and Champagne wines spans 19 ranges and 32 exclusive models, from petite bottles to the impressive 6L Methuselah. Each design blends innovation and tradition, supporting winemakers who seek to differentiate their cuvées in an increasingly competitive market.

Saverglass’ collection for sparkling, semi-sparkling, and Champagne wines spans 19 ranges and 32 exclusive models

Among the standout creations is VERTUO – a strikingly modern silhouette defined by soft shoulders, a delicate sloped neck, and a refined cylindrical body. Standing at just 285.5 mm, VERTUO is as versatile as it is elegant, perfectly suited to Champagne, prosecco, and New Zealand’s own world-class sparkling wines.

Sustainability is equally central to Saverglass’ ethos. The Champenoise ECO DESIGN bottle exemplifies this commitment, offering the timeless appeal of the Champagne standard in a lighter 835g format, without compromise on quality or performance.

In a market where packaging is key to storytelling, Saverglass continues to lead through innovation: extra-white and antique glass finishes, 100% recyclable organic decoration, and pioneering 3D decoration techniques. Each advancement expands the creative possibilities for brands seeking to captivate discerning consumers.

Whether you’re producing a boutique méthode traditionnelle or a bold sparkling rosé, Saverglass provides the perfect canvas for your brand’s next celebration.

Visit saverglass.com to learn more.

VERTUO

A RISING STAR

VERTUO has made such a remarkable entrance onto the sparkling wine scene that it could well become one of the range’s must-haves in the future! A perfectly balanced versatile silhouette with soft shoulders, a delicate, sloped neck and cylindrical body suitable for all winemaking methods. And standing at just 285.5 mm, it looks sophisticated and modern. This makes Vertuo perfect for both Champagne cuvées and proseccos as well as for all kinds of bubbly used for celebrating, whether fine or intense, complex or refined.

World’s best bar revealed at 50 Best 2025

BAR LEONE in Hong Kong has ranked No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 –the first time a bar in Asia has taken the top spot on the famed list.

The 2025 rankings, announced at an awards ceremony in Hong Kong, feature bars from 29 cities with eight new entries spread across Athens, Bratislava, Guangzhou, Lima, New York, Oslo, Tirana and Tokyo.

At No.19, Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage retained its title as The Best Bar in Australasia with Sydney’s Maybe Sammy at No.42. The Best Bar Design Award went to Sydney’s Tigra + Disco Pantera.

Other notable awards included Simone Caporale of Barcelona’s Sips, awarded the Roku Industry Icon Award and The Cambridge Public House in Paris winning the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award.

New York’s Sip & Guzzle won Three Cents Best New Opening and Backdoor Bodega in Penang won the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award for The Backdoor Bodega Guide to Penang. Styled like an indie travel zine, each drink is presented as a narrative entry that spotlight the stories, flavours and landmarks that define their island home, blending personal anecdotes with cultural heritage.

Bar Leone on top

Located in Hong Kong’s vibrant Central district, #1 place-getter Bar Leone is the brainchild of renowned bartender Lorenzo Antinori, whose background includes some of Europe and Asia’s most beloved hotel bars, including London’s American Bar at The Savoy and Dandelyan (now defunct).

Built on the philosophy of ‘cocktail popolari’ – or ‘cocktails for the people’ – Bar Leone pays tribute to the neighbourhood bars of Rome, where locals gather for coffee, aperitivi and casual conversation. The interior is designed to be approachable, unpretentious and deeply rooted in Italian culture and hospitality.

The cocktail menu is a rotating Google Docs file, updated monthly and including the full recipe and method to ensure each drink is fully accessible to everyone.

Lorenzo Antinori, owner of Bar Leone, said: “To be named the number one bar in the world is not only an incredible honour for us at Bar Leone, but also a truly proud moment for Hong Kong. This recognition not only highlights our hard work but also affirms that our city belongs at the very heart of the global bar industry, celebrated for its creativity and warm hospitality.”

Bar Leone opened in June 2023 and quickly rose to fame, debuting at No.1 on the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 and No.2 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024. Earlier this year, it was once again named The Best Bar in Asia at Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025.

Top 10 – World’s Best Bars 2025

1. Bar Leone, Hong Kong

2. Handshake Speakeasy, Mexico City

3. Sips, Barcelona

4. Paradiso, Barcelona

5. Tayēr + Elementary, London

6. Connaught Bar, London

7. Moebius Milano, Milan

8. Line, Athens

9. Jigger & Pony, Singapore

10. Tres Monos, Buenos Aires.

Find the full list at world50bestbars.com

New from Kirin Hyoketsu

THE LATEST addition to the Kirin Hyoketsu range in New Zealand is Kirin Hyoketsu Mandarin – made with real mandarin juice and with low sugar, at 6% ABV. 330ml 6-pack is RRP $20.99 and 330ml 10-pack is RRP $31.99.

Kirin Hyoketsu has also released its popular Lemon variant at 4% ABV, with 81% of consumers agreeing in testing that 4% ABV was the perfect strength for them. 330ml 10-pack is RRP $31.99.

Lion

Zeffer releases Spritz for summer

HAWKE’S BAY beverage company Zeffer is tapping into the growing demand for lighter, lower-ABV drinks with the launch of its new Spritz range – a blend of natural fruit wine and quality ingredients with no artificial sweeteners.

The new Zeffer Spritz lineup is 4.4% ABV and features three flavours inspired by classic cocktail profiles: Limoncello Spritz, Bellini Spritz, and Bramble Spritz. Each 330ml can sits under 140 calories and is gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Zeffer’s Marketing Manager, Alice Yortt, says the launch marks an exciting step into the growing spritz and RTD category.

“Spritz has quickly evolved into a global trend, with consumers increasingly reaching for lighter, flavourful drinks that suit social, summer occasions. Australia is leading the charge in our part of the world, with Limoncello Spritz driving strong growth across both retail and on-premise. We’ve brought that same flavour-forward energy to New Zealand with a range that’s light, refreshing and unmistakably Zeffer –crafted for those golden-hour moments with friends.”

Zeffer Spritz 330ml 6-pack RRP $19.99.

Cassels

Tui goes bold

TUI HAS launched a new ready to drink vodka range with colourful branding for maximum shelf impact. Tui Red is a mix of raspberry, strawberry and vodka, while Tui Blue combines pineapple, strawberry and vodka. Both are 6% ABV with 1.7g of sugar per serve and come in a 330ml 10-pack format. RRP $28.99.

DB

Weird and wonderful rebrand for Odd Company

KIWI RTD brand Odd Company has rebranded – launching a fresh look and a new line-up of liquids.

The new range features three flavour combinations at 6% ABV, each with a cheeky collective noun to match its personality:

• A Mischief of Vodka Mandarin & Yuzu

• A Disruption of Vodka Pineapple & Passionfruit

• An Absurdity of Vodka Raspberry & Lemon Odd Company 330ml 10-pack is RRP $30.99

DB

Crush it with Smirnoff

NEW SMIRNOFF Crush does what it says on the can: two juicy fruit flavours are crushed with Smirnoff Vodka for refreshing summer tipples. Available in Smirnoff Crush Mango & Peach and Smirnoff Crush Lemon & Lime – both at 5.7% ABV.

440ml 4-pack RRP $19.99

Lion

Kane Stanford

Kane has worked for 13+ years in liquor marketing in New Zealand at Independent Liquor, Bacardi and now Besos Margarita, where he is GM. He is also Head Strategy Judge at the 2 Degrees Auckland Chamber Business Awards. Kane has nominated himself for several marketing awards, but never won.

Cracking codes

Kane Stanford finds there are two brand assets that can deliver big results when it comes to advertising cut-through...

DURING LOCKDOWN, I was fortunate enough to do Mark Ritson’s MiniMBA in Brand Management. It’s an awesome course; a great investment in your staff if you want to seriously up-skill your team, or a great investment in yourself if you did a marketing degree at university but spent most of your time in the student pub (hypothetically).

One of the topics Ritson covers under Brand Strategy is Brand Codes. They are the distinctive brand assets that help define your brand, remind consumers who you are, and trigger those memory structures. Logos and product shots are the most obvious and most used, but think also slogans, colours, tone of voice, and packaging.

Ipsos did some interesting research that revealed the most effective brand assets driving the most brand attention.

If you search: “What’s better than showing a logo in your ad” then you should find it. It’s well worth a look.

Sound’s good

Over a sample of 2,000 TVCs, THE best brand asset for gaining brand attention was sound. If you have a sound asset consistently linked with your brand in your ad, then that ad is nine times more likely to have strong brand attention.

Do you know the sound when you turn on Netflix? Yeah, you do. Tudum. Netflix understands the power of its sonic brand asset and even has tudum.com as a fan site that goes behind the scenes of its shows. That noise is distinct; it’s used consistently and it’s powerful.

McDonald’s has nailed it with ‘do do do do doooo’ and you know it’s a

Magness Benrow ad the moment you hear Adrienne and John.

Alcohol brands don’t use this tool much these days and it’s a missed opportunity. I guess a can of Speights sounds just like a can of Export Gold when it’s being cracked open. Super Liquor do it well with their jingle “Super, Super Liquor”, which has been around for years. Or maybe it’s been stuck in my head for years? Either way, they realised the power of sound and used it well.

The eyes have it

The second most powerful brand asset was Characters/Mascots. Ipsos data shows that a Character/Mascot delivers six times more likelihood of your ad getting strong brand attention.

Globally, that’s Ronald, the Colonel or Johnnie Walker. Locally, it’s Stick Man, The 4 Square Guy, or the Briscoes Lady. Again, liquor brands don’t leverage this nearly enough. Most stick to using the founders, e.g. Jack, Jim, Johnnie… but not very much.

Liquor does have to walk a fine line – we don’t want to create cartoony characters who appeal to minors – but there is plenty of scope to create adult characters that tell an adult story to adults.

Retailers have played more in the space over the years. Super Liquor was originally Super Liquor Man when it was established in the late 70s, and there’s Liquor King too, but using the concept of character to its fullest seems to have gone out of fashion, despite the research showing characters make your ad more interesting, more sticky, more attention-grabbing.

A Quick Shameless Plug

When I’m not writing marketing columns the night after the deadline, I run the marketing for Besos Margarita. I’m lucky enough to have a real live founder to use, so I do. In every radio ad, billboard, and reel.

I’m turning the poor guy into a mascot, but he’s up for it and it works. Similarly, every time the format allows, I use his voice, his accent, his passion and start with “Hola! I’m Mexican Chef Luis Cabrera!” It’s not a very sophisticated sonic device, but over time, creative consistency pays dividends. It’s different from every other ad, it’s distinctly Besos, it builds familiarity and it grabs attention. Sound and Character.

If you have a sound asset consistently linked with your brand in your ad, then that ad is nine times more likely to have strong brand attention.

So what?

So, whether you’re a liquor brand, a retailer, a distributor, or a big corporate –if you’re looking for effective ads, brands, campaigns and you’ve got the fortitude to stick with it… play around with sounds and characters, you’ll find some good attention-grabbing results.

Raising the bar

Alcohol

Pervinder Davies Pervinder specialises in alcohol licensing law and is a director of Pervinder Davies Law in Christchurch. pervinderdavieslaw.co.nz

licensing lawyer Pervinder Davies

explains what’s set to change with New Zealand’s alcohol laws...

NEW ZEALAND’S alcohol laws are in for a refresh, and for retailers, bar owners, and producers it’s news worth paying attention to. In August, the Government announced proposed changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, saying it wanted to make the rules fairer and more practical.

Why the changes?

The goal is to cut red tape, support responsible businesses, and keep communities safe, without making life harder than it needs to be.

What would change?

One of the biggest shifts is around licensing rules. Since the Labour government reforms, anyone could object to an alcohol licence application, but under the proposed system only local community members would be able to raise concerns. Businesses would also finally have the chance to respond to objections, and when renewing a licence under updated Local Alcohol Policies (LAPs), district licensing committees would have to adjust licence conditions rather than rejecting applications outright. It’s all about making the process fairer and more transparent.

Local businesses would also get a boost. Hairdressers and barbers would be able to offer a small glass of wine or beer without needing a licence, while wineries, breweries, and distilleries could hold both on- and off-licences. That means more opportunities to serve customers and

sell products directly – a win for both producers and consumers.

For the events sector, it could be a game-changer. Big national events, especially those on TV, would be easier to manage because ministers could exempt them from certain licensing rules without needing to pass new laws each time. Organisers can also expect a National Risk Framework to guide special licence applications consistently across the country, and events spanning multiple council areas would see committees coordinating to avoid delays and duplication.

The goal is to cut red tape, support responsible businesses, and keep communities

safe.

Another welcome update is for largescale events. Only gatherings of 2,000 or more people would need to submit full event management plans, up from the previous 400-person threshold – reducing costs and red tape for smaller events while still keeping safety front of mind.

The government is also making sure alcohol is supplied responsibly. Age verification would become more secure with digital identity tools, and alcohol delivery services would face stricter

rules to prevent sales to underage or intoxicated customers.

Finally, venues would need to offer a broader range of non-alcoholic and lowalcohol options. The law would clearly define what these terms mean, helping consumers make informed choices: non-alcoholic drinks contain no alcohol at all, low-alcohol drinks have only tiny traces (like some kombuchas), and zeroalcohol drinks simulate their alcoholic counterparts but contain nothing.

Local councils still have a say

While these proposed updates would be nationwide, local councils would remain in control of LAP process and licensing committees. Community input is still important, so businesses and residents alike are encouraged to engage with councils on local decisions.

What it all means for businesses

For the alcohol industry, these proposed changes are about balance. They aim to reduce alcohol-related harm while supporting responsible drinking, promoting business growth, and making event planning smoother and more cost-effective. The message is clear: the government wants a system that’s fairer, simpler, and more practical for modern New Zealand life.

For businesses, it’s an opportunity to innovate, serve customers responsibly, and operate with fewer unnecessary hurdles – all while helping communities stay safe and vibrant.

Awards of Excellence Winners 2025

We are thrilled to announce our Trophy Winners from this year’s National Wine Awards

Champion Wine of the Show

VILAURA HAWKE’S BAY BLANC DE BLANC 2021

New World Trophy for Champion Chardonnay

BRANCOTT ESTATE LETTER SERIES O CHARDONNAY 2024

Laffort Trophy for Champion Gewürztraminer

WAIRAU RIVER RESERVE

GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2025

Antipodes Trophy for Champion Riesling

SAINT CLAIR PIONEER BLOCK 9 BIG JOHN RIESLING 2025

Dish Magazine Trophy for Champion Pinot Gris

FRAMINGHAM PINOT GRIS 2024

Guala Closures NZ Trophy for Champion Sauvignon Blanc

VAVASOUR SAUVIGNON BLANC 2025

NZ Winegrowers Trophy for Champion Other White Varieties

BEACH HOUSE LA PLAGE ARNEIS 2025

Mainfreight Trophy for Champion Export Wine

WAIRAU RIVER PINOT NOIR 2024

New Zealand Couriers Trophy for Champion Merlot & Blends

MILLS REEF ELSPETH GIMBLETT GRAVELS

MERLOT 2020

Trophy for Champion Organic Wine

ZEPHYR RIESLING 2024

MCC Label Trophy for Champion Sparkling

VILAURA HAWKE'S BAY BLANC DE BLANC 2021

Wineworks Trophy for Champion Rosé

TRIPLEBANK ROSÉ 2025

Classic Oak Products NZ Trophy for Champion Pinot Noir

TE KAIRANGA ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2024

Trophy for Champion Cabernet

CHURCH ROAD GRAND RESERVE CABERNET

SAUVIGNON MERLOT MALBEC 2021

Fruitfed Trophy for Champion Syrah

MOUNT RILEY MARLBOROUGH SYRAH 2024

Kumeu A&H Society Trophy for Champion Other Red Varieties

MUDBRICK RESERVE PETIT VERDOT MALBEC MERLOT 2024

winejobsonline.com Trophy for Champion Sweet Wine

SEIFRIED WINEMAKERS COLLECTION

NELSON 'SWEET AGNES' RIESLING 2024

Auckland A&P Association

Heritage Rosebowl

CHURCH ROAD GRAND RESERVE SYRAH 2013 / 2016 / 2021

Congratulations to all Award Winners from the Auckland Agricultural & Pastoral Association, host of the National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand

Taxing times

Tax debt is an issue for many pubs and bars around the country. With the busy festive season approaching, now is the time to make sure your business is on top of things...

ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY and the cost-of-living crisis have meant businesses across New Zealand have been doing it tough in recent times, with hospitality particularly hard hit.

Inland Revenue says that more than one in five pubs and bars have overdue tax debt, with the average amount of that debt almost $40k. In total, it says that the around 2,000 pubs and bars in New Zealand owe more than $30 million in unpaid taxes collectively.

More focus on debt collection

IRD Group Marketing and Communications Manager Andrew Stott says that a significant proportion of the tax debt carried by pubs and bars is PAYE and GST. “That is money that is simply meant to be passed on to Inland Revenue, so more work is being done now to get that money collected,” he says.

The agency has increased its debt collection activity thanks to increased government funding and this is leading to more liquidations across the board, up more than 30% on 2024.

New additional permanent funding in Budget 2025 of $35 million per year for Inland Revenue to invest more in tax compliance and collection activities means the number of liquidations is expected to keep growing.

Andrew Stott says that, for the most part, pubs and bars get in trouble with debt because of not keeping up with record-keeping or cashflow management.

“Inland Revenue understands that provisional tax can be hard to get right sometimes, but if GST and PAYE isn’t being passed on as it’s meant to, the pub owner needs to get some financial advice,” he points out. “Not paying your PAYE is a criminal offence with some severe consequences.”

“Inland Revenue understands that provisional tax can be hard to get right sometimes, but if GST and PAYE isn’t being passed on as it’s meant to, the pub owner needs to get some financial advice.”

– Andrew Stott, IRD Group Marketing and Communications Manager.

Tip-offs a theme in hospo

Inland Revenue has also significantly increased its investigations and auditing, focusing on those actively trying to avoid their taxes.

Andrew Stott says that Inland Revenue receives more tip-offs about pubs and bars than most other types of business. Sometimes these are from customers saying a venue doesn’t always have a working POS device, and they suspect it isn’t reporting its cash income.

More often, the tip-offs come from ex-employees complaining about the use of cash to pay labour under-the-table, while not paying the PAYE. Andrew Stott says this usually comes to light when one of those employees needs proof of income, and Inland Revenue has no record of it.

Get help early

Andrew Stott recommends that any business struggling with tax debt should contact Inland Revenue before it gets out of hand. Ignoring tax debt in the hope that you’ll be in a better position to address it down the track is not a good approach and it’s best to address it as soon as you can.

“You can set up an instalment arrangement to pay it off over time –you don’t even need to talk to us to do this,” says Stott. “Just go onto your myIR account and select ‘Request an instalment arrangement’ under the ‘I want to ...’ column.”

Inland Revenue receives more tip-offs about pubs and bars than most other types of business.

Occasionally, the tip-offs will come from someone who knows a lot about the business owner and how they spend their money – supplying details of holidays or large private expenses that don’t seem to match up with their supposed income.

He says if things have moved beyond that and there’s no way you can manage to pay the debt, talk to your accountant as soon as possible. They may be able to negotiate with Inland Revenue around the penalties and interest, or provide other options for managing the debt.

Double the bubbles

The festive season is here – Joelle Thomson rounds up some great bubbles for your store shelves and drinks lists...

Zero alcohol sparkling

Demand is growing for non-alcoholic options, so make sure everyone can be part of the celebrations with these zero alcohol alternatives.

Plus Minus Prosecco Zero Alcohol

RRP $15.99

Stone Pony

This light-bodied Australian sparkling wine is alcohol-free and refreshingly crisp with delicate citrus and red apple aromas in a clean, fruity style with a dry finish of flavour in each sip. It was fermented in sealed stainless steel tanks to gain its natural bubbles and alcohol was removed post-fermentation.

Lindauer Free*

RRP $17.99

Lion

This is New Zealand’s best-known sparkling wine brand, but sans alcohol. Lindauer Free* is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay, which combine to deliver fresh aromas of green apples and a hint of citrusy lime in a light bodied bubbly with less than 0.5% ABV.

Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut

RRP $18.99

Federal

Giesen is a leader in the 0% alcohol wine space thanks to the pioneering efforts of winemaker Duncan Shouler and his team. This non-alcoholic sparkling wine has flavours of ripe citrus and hints of white peach in a lightbodied, refreshing and dry bubbly.

Lyre’s Classico Sparkling

RRP $23.99

Tickety-Boo

Lyre’s Classico Sparkling brings a feeling of celebration, with none of the alcohol. This nonalcoholic sparkling alternative has light, fruity flavours of green apples, strawberries and a touch of sweet melon. It’s light-bodied with crisp acidity adding freshness to each mouthful.

RRP $14 –$19.99

Paradise Prosecco Brut Dry NV

RRP $14.99

Wine Diamonds

This Prosecco is made with 100% Glera grapes grown in South Australia and delivers a dry, fresh and crisp profile, with lively aromas of citrus and stone fruit, alongside green apple, pear, and orange blossom. Light-bodied and fresh, with a gentle mousse giving texture, vivid acidity for lift, and a clean, long finish. Refreshing and easy to drink.

Ca’ Montini Prosecco

RRP $16.99

EuroVintage

The popularity of Prosecco keeps rising and so does the wide availability of this fizzy, fruity, affordable category of sparkling wine. This Prosecco is labelled Extra Dry and is an aromatic style with dry flavours of fresh pear, lemon juice and ripe melon aromas. It is lightbodied, refreshing and deliciously tasty as a daytime drink.

Lyre’s Classico Sparkling brings a feeling of celebration, with none of the alcohol.

Veuve du Vernay Brut

RRP $18.99

EuroVintage

This affordable dry French sparkling wine has a light body, fresh crispness and a subtle creamy aroma followed by a tangy finish.

Canti Prosecco DOC

RRP $19.99

Hancocks

Prosecco is the world’s best-selling and most popular sparkling wine and this award-winning version shows why, making the Top 50 Wines Under $30 at this year’s New World Wine Awards. It has a light body, dry flavours and fruity aromas of white peach, a hint of spice and lively character.

Villa Maria Sparkling Cuvée Brut NV

RRP $19.99

Villa Maria

Lightly sparkling wine and affordability combine in this bubbly blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown in both Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. This wine was fermented at cool temperatures to preserve freshness and aromatic appeal, bringing a citrusy lemon taste to a dry wine that offers good value.

RRP $20 – $29.99

Lindauer DOC Prosecco

RRP $21.99

Lion

Lindauer Prosecco is a collaboration between acclaimed New Zealand winemaker Jane De Witt and Italy’s Famiglia Zonin, an Italian family with roots in the Prosecco winemaking tradition since 1821. Made with 100% Glera grapes, this wine is expressively Italian with aromas of jasmine, vanilla and Golden Delicious apple. The creamy palate is packed full of fresh summer fruits while the delicate mousse is balanced with vibrant acidity.

Matahiwi Estate Blanc de Blanc NV

RRP $23

Matahiwi Estate

Matahiwi Blanc de Blanc offers outstanding value and flavours of very fresh, very crisp and very tasty Chardonnay with bubbles. It has body to burn and offers layers of creamy appeal, citrus lemon freshness and a lively, flavoursome finish.

Mission Estate Fête Brut Cuvée

RRP $23.99

Mission Estate

Delicate and fleshy – this wine has it all and at an incredibly affordable price. Partial barrel fermentation brings weight and depth of flavour to this tank-fermented sparkling wine, which is dry with citrus and fresh bakery flavours, offering excellent value.

Monmousseau Brut Étoile NV

RRP $24.50

Maison Vauron

This is a great-value dry white blend from the Loire Valley. Chenin Blanc leads the crisp style here, fleshed out by Ugni Blanc, which grows on chalky soils in the Loire. This is a superb wine that over-delivers with surprisingly complex flavours and a dry style.

Matahiwi Estate’s Brut Rosé brings three great things together: Pinot Noir, bubbles and a crisp, dry style.

Brilla Prosecco

RRP $24.99

Procure

Brilla Prosecco is a crowd-pleasing sparkling wine with a vibrant flavour profile and presented in a stylish bottle. Made from 100% Glera grapes grown in the Veneto region, it’s an expressive bubbly with aromas of green apple, pear and citrus blossom, balanced by a clean, dry finish.

Maretti Prosecco DOC

RRP $25.99

Stone Pony

Maretti Prosecco DOC is brand new to Aotearoa New Zealand and is part of the Maretti Italia range, imported by Stone Pony. A dry style, it’s light and lively with super fresh flavours of green apples, pears and a hint of stone fruit.

Matahiwi Estate Brut Rosé

RRP $28

Matahiwi Estate

Matahiwi’s sparkling Rosé brings three great things together: Pinot Noir, bubbles and a crisp, dry style. This medium-bodied sparkling wine is made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Wairarapa, where winemaker Miles Dineen produces surprisingly generous volumes of this wine every year, retaining character and flavour at the same time. This impressive sparkling Rosé over-delivers for the festive season and year-round.

Hunter’s MiruMiru NV

RRP $29.90

EuroVintage

‘MiruMiru’ is Māori for ‘sparkling’ and this vibrant, fresh, creamy bubbly is a characterful blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It has balance and depth of flavour thanks to extended ageing on yeast lees in the bottle, a process that keeps wine fresh and imparts flavours of fresh baking. MiruMiru is one of the best bubblies made in Aotearoa New Zealand each year.

RRP $30 – $39.99

2024 Balvonie Marlborough Prosecco

RRP $34.99

Balvonie

‘Balvonie’ is a Scottish word meaning ‘farm in the foothills’, only in this case the farm is in Marlborough and the wine is modelled on Italian Prosecco and is made from the Glera grape, which brings fresh aromas of citrus and fresh apples. All grapes in this wine were hand-picked and the wine went through secondary fermentation in bottle, followed by three months of lees ageing to bring notes of savoury depth.

No.1 Family Estate Cuvée No.1

RRP $37.99

No.1 Family Estate

Chardonnay and time make an ideal match in this full-bodied bubbly from the Le Brun family in Marlborough. Extended ageing on yeast lees accentuates the creamy aromas, smooth flavours and richness of Chardonnay, which shines through here in aromas and taste. A portion is held back each year to spend longer on yeast lees, evolving to become No.1 Reserve.

2020 Diamond Heart Blanc de Blancs

RRP $39.99

Marisco

A great expression of Blanc de Blancs from the heartland of New Zealand wine, Marlborough. This méthode traditionelle showcases the finesse and purity of flavour of Chardonnay, along with the complexity of ageing a wine on lees for an extended period. This bubbly is dry, elegant and creamy with crisp acidity and a lingering finish.

2020 Diamond Heart Waihopai Cuvée

RRP $39.99

Marisco

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Marlborough’s Waihopai Valley combine in this elegant sparkling wine, which was made à la méthode traditionelle – the same winemaking technique used to produce champagne. Ageing on lees builds texture and complexity, bringing aromas of freshly baked baguettes, along with flavours of citrus, white stone fruit and vibrant acidity, which drives each sip to a lingering finish.

Villa Maria Reserve Méthode

Traditionnelle

RRP $39.99

Villa Maria

This wine delivers quality New Zealand bubbly from the country’s largest wine region, Marlborough. It’s a classic blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with fresh aromas of green apple and stone fruit sitting harmoniously in a wine with a creamy palate and dry taste.

RRP $40 – $49.99

Mumm Marlborough Prestige Brut

RRP $40

Pernod Ricard

This lively, full-bodied Marlborough méthode traditionelle is a classic blend of the three main champagne grape varieties: 46% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay and 9% Pinot Meunier. The result is a dry, flavoursome sparkling wine with toasty complex flavours and a long finish.

Mumm Marlborough Brut Rosé

RRP $40

Pernod Ricard

Mumm Marlborough Brut Rosé is a new wave classic modelled on a great French brand. Dry, full-bodied and characterful, this sparkling expression of Pinot Noir brings gentle aromas of summer berry fruit to the glass, intermingled with flavours of brioche and fresh bakery notes.

Quartz Reef Méthode Traditionnelle

Brut NV

RRP $42

Vintners

Winemaker Rudi Bauer and his small team at Quartz Reef winery make this impressive sparkling wine from a blend of certified organic grapes grown in Bendigo with Pinot Noir the predominant variety, supported by Chardonnay. All grapes are hand-picked and the dry, zesty, toasty, complex flavours are a result of lees ageing for two years. The palate is crisp and creamy, elegant and well-balanced, finishing on a long and refreshing taste.

Nautilus Brut Cuvée NV Marlborough

RRP $45

Negociants

Winemaker Clive Jones fashions this méthode traditionelle bubbly on Bollinger, blending 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay and ageing the finished wine for three years on lees. This classic sparkling is characterful and refined, fresh and complex with a full body, dry taste and layers of flavour. Baked apple, citrus and toasted almond aromas combine in a creamy, balanced and vibrant bubbly.

Quartz Reef Méthode Traditionnelle

Rosé NV

RRP $47

Vintners

This sparkling Rosé is an outstanding expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir made from Quartz Reef’s certified organic and biodynamic vineyard in Bendigo, a warm, sun-parched corner of Otago’s wine scene. This wine was aged on lees for 24 months, which brings layers of complexity and delicacy with notes of wild strawberry, rose petal and brioche. The palate is dry, vibrant and delicious with a persistent lingering finish.

No.1 Rosé

RRP $49

No.1 Family Estate

No.1 Rosé is a benchmark for méthode traditionelle sparkling wine in Aotearoa New Zealand, thanks to the pioneering work of Daniel and Adele Le Brun, whose hard mahi continues to set the standard for elegance, depth and finesse in sparkling Rosé. This wine is made entirely from Pinot Noir and is dry with a toasty subtlety and full-bodied style.

2020 Whitehaven Samantha Cuvée

Méthode Traditionelle

RRP $49

Whitehaven

This Marlborough sparkling wine marks the second release of Whitehaven’s Samantha Cuvée, which is named after the winery founders’ daughter. This is a full-bodied, Chardonnay-dominant blend with hallmark citrus notes and fresh acidity supported by the toasty flavours of Pinot Noir. Bold, complex and flavoursome.

RRP $50 and above

H. Lanvin & Fils Cuvée Brut

Champagne

RRP $50 - $53

EuroVintage

Lanvin is the best-value champagne available in New Zealand today and consistently delivers the incredibly elegant ‘je ne sais quoi’ of great sparkling wine. Vibrant, fresh and complex, it has the subtle aromas of an early morning bakery and a very long, flavoursome finish. Lanvin Champagne is a consistent winner in wine competitions. It’s easy to taste why.

2021 Palliser Estate Griffin

RRP $55

Negociants

This is a vibrant sparkling from one of Martinborough’s founding producers, Palliser Estate. Made from a 50/50 blend of handpicked Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, this bubbly was aged 36 months on lees, which brings layers of fresh pastry, green apple and citrus aromas to the glass. Creamy, full-bodied and bone dry, this wine drinks well now and has further potential for ageing favourably.

2021 Palliser Estate The Rose Méthode Traditionelle

RRP $58.99

Negociants

Martinborough Pinot Noir is one of the great wines of Aotearoa New Zealand and here it is in a lighter hue as a sparkling wine with two years on lees. This is a dry bubbly with bright summer flavours of strawberries, roses and a hint of fresh bakery aromas.

No.1 Cuvée Reine Reserve NV

RRP $63

No.1 Family Estate

This is one of the newest additions to the No.1 Family Estate sparkling wine range – and one of the best bubblies made in New Zealand. Long lees ageing of four years in the bottle brings incredible depth of flavour along with vibrant freshness and complexity, thanks to the citrus character of Chardonnay, the savoury taste of Pinot Noir and brightness of Pinot Meunier in the blend. It’s named in honour of Daniel le Brun’s mother, Reine Vautrelle Le Brun, who lived through some of the toughest years in the Champagne region during World War Two.

No.1 Rosé is a benchmark for méthode traditionelle sparkling wine in Aotearoa New Zealand.

2019 Quartz Reef Méthode Traditionnelle Vintage Blanc de Blancs

RRP $85

Vintners

This impeccable vintage sparkling wine is made from certified organic Chardonnay grown in Bendigo and aged for five years on lees, which retains exceptional freshness in its flavours of citrusy purity, supported by subtle creamy aromas and a full body. It’s a wine that’s built to age, drinking beautifully now but with the structure to come into its own with another four to five years in bottle. This bubbly is a labour of love, made by hand from the grapes to the disgorgement by winemaker Rudi Bauer and his team. The bottle is inspired by Taittinger Comtes de Champagne.

Champagne Pol Roger

RRP $100.99

Hancocks

Famous as the champagne of choice for Sir Winston Churchill, Pol Roger stands as one of the great sparkling wines of the world. It’s made with equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, each grape contributing its own inimitable style – from crispness and creamy flavours to structure, power and freshness. Dry, full-bodied and toasty.

A Taste of Italy

Coming up Rosés

It’s Rosé season!

Joelle Thomson suggests some great drops for summer...

2025 Seifried Rosé Nelson

RRP $15 - $20

Seifried

Seifried Estate is one of the oldest wineries in the South Island, founded by Austrian-born Hermann Seifried and his Kiwi wife Agnes in 1973. Today, it is run by their children, who made this deep pink Rosé with its fruity, berry flavours of crushed raspberries and strawberry jam. There’s a slight edge of sweetness on the finish and a lovely balance.

2023 Les Petites Jamelles Pays

RRP $15.99

Procure

Is this the best value Rosé in the country right now? I love its dry taste, fresh, fruity style and light body. Best of all, it’s incredibly consistent in quality, thanks to the choice of a screwcap as closure for this French wine. It comes from the Languedoc wine region that hugs a significant portion of the southern Mediterranean French coast and tastes like it costs a lot more than its modest price.

2025 Dunnolly North Canterbury Rosé RRP $19.99

Dunnolly

Dunnolly Estate was founded in North Canterbury in 1995 by Peter Parish, whose daughter Nicky Parish is the winemaker today, bringing a thoughtful touch to the winemaking here with freshness and depth of flavour: dried cranberries, crisp, bright, bold candied raspberries and hints of red apple. A dry wine that is gorgeously fresh in taste.

2025 ME By Matahiwi Estate Pinot Rosé

RRP $19.99

Matahiwi

This Rosé is bright, fresh and youthful with vibrant red berry fruit flavours. It’s made from Pinot Noir grown in the Wairarapa, fermented to capture the wine’s signature red floral perfume and has brief lees ageing, which brings subtle roundness to every sip.

2025 The Ned Rosé

RRP $19.99

Marisco

Here’s an elegant, fresh young Marlborough Rosé with wild raspberry aromas in a delicate, medium-bodied wine. Tangy red berry flavours of cranberry, strawberry and a touch of youthful acidity bring drive to every sip.

2024 Méditéo Rosé

RRP $21.99

Vintners

This wine is light in body and colour but full of flavour, with a fresh, crisp structure and interesting blend of five different grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Merlot, Cinsault and Syrah each bring their diverse characters to this dry wine with its lively red berry fruit flavours.

2024 Rabbit Ranch Rosé

RRP $22

Rabbit Ranch

Rabbit Ranch is best known for its lively Pinot Noir, which is so popular there’s now an entire range of Rabbit wines. This one is a fruity, lightbodied, slightly sweeter style with flavours of cherry jam.

2024 Tiki Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé

RRP $22  Beverage Brothers

This vibrant Rosé exudes fun at every step: from its bright ruby colour and freshly picked summer berry aromas through to its creamy mid-palate texture, which is gained from bringing a touch of weight to the wine with brief lees contact following fermentation. A small percentage of Pinot Gris was blended in with the Pinot Noir to add appealing aromatic interest.

2023 Adeline Rosé

RRP $24.99

Stone Pony

This vibrant, beautiful southern French Rosé has all the crisp, tangy flavours of red berries, dried cranberries and red apples that have inspired fresh, light-bodied Rosés around the world. Talk about a great late afternoon wine, year round.

2025 Misty Cove Wines Landmark

Series Rosé

RRP $24.99

Misty Cove

This pale pink Rosé is made from grapes grown on Misty Cove’s Fareham Lane vineyard in Marlborough and opens with aromas of strawberry, watermelon, and a hint of raspberry sorbet. The palate is crisp and fruit-led with a dry, moreish finish that’s hard to resist.

2024 Whitehaven Marlborough Rosé

RRP $25

Whitehaven

Modelled after southern French Rosés, this wine has a pale pink hue, dry style and taste but is made entirely from Pinot Noir, which brings fresh strawberry flavours, lifted fruity aromas and a fresh, crisp, fruity taste on the finish.

2025 Paddy Borthwick Pinot Rosé

Wairarapa

RRP $22.99

Borthwick

Gladstone is one of the Wairarapa’s often forgotten secrets and this wine highlights the quality of its excellent wines with a dry, crisp, light-bodied style and flavours of red berries and summer fruit. Borthwick Vineyard was founded in 1996 and remains proudly family-owned.

2024 SOHO Harry Rosé Marlborough

RRP $25

Soho

Soho’s Harry Rosé has impressed me several times this year so it’s great to see it getting the accolades it deserves as one of the recently announced Top 50 wines Under $30 in the 2025 New World Wine Awards. This vibrant Rosé has juicy aromas, flavours of red berries, watermelon and a fresh citrus taste on the finish.

Winesmiths Dry Rosé

RRP $25

Negociants

Australian artist Claire Ishino’s design brings a summery look to this new two-litre box of dry Rosé, but it’s not just the outside of the box that’s bursting with personality. The wine inside is an expressive, crisp and (as its description promises) dry Rosé with flavours of fresh red summer berries. It has strawberries, raspberries and wild flowers in a mediumbodied wine with a touch of floral aromas and a lingering finish. Be sure to store in the fridge to retain freshness.

2025 Nga Waka Martinborough Rosé

RRP $25

Hancocks

This is the first Rosé from Nga Waka made entirely by the winery’s second-ever winemaker – the highly experienced Paul Mason – who has fermented this wine to full dryness. Its delicate red fruit and floral aromas are held in check by crisp acidity from its cool climate origins; the grapes were grown on the winery’s Pirinoa Block. Minimal skin contact results in a light-pink wine.

2024 Dancing Water Central Otago

Blanc de Noir

RRP $28

Dancing Water

Dancing Water Winery made a big impression at the 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition, earning a medal for each of the three Rosés they entered (the first NZ winery to do so) and shortlisted for the Rosé Producer Trophy of the year (to be announced after Drinksbiz went to print). This Gold medalwinning Blanc de Noir is made from Pinot Noir and is dry and fresh with a lush, lightly fruitscented mid-palate. The term ‘Blanc de Noir’ is French for ‘white of black’ – a nod to a white wine made from a deeply coloured red grape variety. Just 3% of entries to the IWSC are awarded Gold and this Blanc De Noir stands out for its high quality.

Pale pink in hue and dry in style, 2024 Palliser Estate

Rosé bursts with summer berry flavours and lush red fruit aromas.

2025 Takapoto Estate Crossing Point Rosé

RRP $33

Takapoto Estate

A long, cool fermentation preserves the softness and fresh red plum flavours of Merlot in this medium dry Rosé, while Cabernet Franc’s perfumed red floral aromas are also held in check. The two grape varieties were both entirely hand-picked and make up equal proportions of this wine, each bringing a noticeably drier taste than is found many fruitier Rosés. This is lush, lively and finishes on a dry note.

2025 Dancing Water Pinot Noir Rosé

RRP $28

Dancing Water

Made from some of New Zealand’s oldest drygrown, ungrafted Pinot Noir vines, this elegant Rosé is pale in colour and French-inspired in style with a fresh, balanced palate and delicate notes of red berries.

2024 Ata Rangi Rosé

RRP $30

EuroVintage

Winemaker Helen Masters made this vibrant 2024 Rosé by blending Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon into a fresh, medium-bodied wine shaped by fermentation in large-format barrels and stainless steel tanks. These bring layers of savoury complexity to complement the watermelon, peach, and fresh strawberry aromas. The palate is tangy and mouth-filling, finishing on a dry note.

2025 Dublin Street Martinborough

Rosé

RRP $32

Dublin Street

Hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes grown on the four hectare Dublin Street Vineyard are used to make this finely tuned, delicate dry Rosé. It has elegant red fruit and lingering fresh flavours in layers of ripe raspberries and tart cranberries, complemented by subtle floral aromas, which reveal thoughtful winemaking.

2025 Rockburn Stolen Kiss Rosé

RRP $33

Hancocks

Inspired by the romantic notion of a ‘stolen kiss’, winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis first crafted this playful Rosé in 2006 by diverting select Pinot Noir grapes from Rockburn’s flagship red. This light-bodied Rosé has aromas of strawberries, toffee apples and tastes like summer in the glass. It’s made from a blend of grapes grown on vineyards in Cromwell, Gibbston and Alexandra and has a balanced fruity sweet taste on the finish.

2024 Palliser Estate Rosé

RRP $34

Negociants

Pale pink in hue and dry in style, this lively Rosé bursts with summer berry flavours and lush red fruit aromas. It’s made with grapes grown on Palliser Estate’s Pencarrow, Woolshed and Pinnacles vineyards, which collectively create a medium-bodied palate with bright acidity and a lingering, mouthwatering finish. Gentle pressing and cool fermentation was finished at a dry 2.5 grams of residual acidity, which adds lift and purity to every sip.

2024 Coal Pit Central Otago Rosé

RRP $38

Coal Pit Wines

Central Otago is the epicentre of Pinot Noir in New Zealand, so it stands to reason that great dry Rosés (also made from Pinot Noir) will shine out of this southern region too. Coal Pit Rosé is modelled on Provence-style Rosés with its pale pink hue, dry taste and soft, fragrant fruit aromas of strawberries, cherries and stone fruit. This wine is summer in the glass and delivers fresh vibrant flavours for everyday drinking, year round too.

FLAVOURS THAT DANCE. PRAISES THAT SING.

We’re celebrating a bumper harvest of awards across the globe for Marisco Vineyards and our 2024 The Ned Sauvignon Blanc.

At the recent ICCWS show in Australia, this stunning wine was awarded a Top Gold, the Trophy for Best NZ Wine and the Trophy for Best International Wine (imported), with Marisco taking the Trophy for Most Successful Exhibitor in Show

To top that off, Marisco also picked up the coveted White Winemaker of the Year at the IWC (International Wine Challenge), held in London.

Perfect praise for our family of winemakers dedicated to making wines to love, share and celebrate with.

Joelle Thomson Journalist, wine writer and author joellethomson.com

Chasing an Assyrtiko dream

Those looking for a different white wine style to try this summer would do well to seek out the latest Assyrtiko from South Australia’s

Jim Barry Wines, says Joelle Thomson...

IT WAS more than the taste of Assyrtiko that first stopped Peter Barry in his tracks while on holiday with his wife, Sue, on the Greek island of Santorini in 2006.

The island’s desert-like growing conditions, saline soils and high winds mean the vines have to be cultivated in basket-like trellises grown close to the ground to provide protection from high winds and heat waves.

Barry was impressed by the maverick viticultural methods, as well as Assyrtiko’s bold taste and ability to retain relatively high acidity in a hot climate.

His family’s Clare Valley winery was already well-known for its world-class Riesling and struck by the parallels, he decided to explore further.

Peter Barry tasted as many Assyrtiko as he could find at the London Wine Fair in 2007 and says that every one of them cemented his faith in the Mediterranean white grape’s potential to suit South Australia’s growing climate well.

Assyrtiko’s ability to retain freshness in dry conditions such as those on Santorini (which has an average rainfall of less than 300mm, strong winds and intensely harsh sun) inspired him to work on getting vine cuttings to take to Australia.

Australia’s first Assyrtiko vineyards

Peter Barry’s quest began with Konstantinos Lazarakis, a Master of Wine, who introduced him to Yiannis Paraskevopoulos from Gaia Wines, which produces outstanding Assyrtiko on Santorini. Together, they collected 12 dormant Assyrtiko cuttings from a single vine and established a clone, which was

taken back to Australia and placed in quarantine for the mandatory two years.

The two best cuttings were released in 2010 and in 2011 and grew 32 buds, which were grafted onto Riesling vines in two vineyards in the Lodge Hill and Watervale vineyards: two sites highly prized for Riesling.

The first wine

The Barry family launched Australia’s first Assyrtiko in 2016 and, ever since, its acidity has been higher and its pH lower than the Riesling with which it shares space. This underscores the potential of Assyrtiko to thrive in the Clare Valley, says Peter Barry. More vines had been planted in 2015 and, at a tasting in Wellington in September this year, Peter’s son, Sam Barry, shared more of the story of Australian Assyrtiko.

The 2017 Jim Barry Assyrtiko won the Trophy for Best Dry White other than

Riesling at the 2018 Clare Valley Wine Show – no mean feat for a Greek grape variety growing in a region devoted to Riesling.

Clare Valley Assyrtiko has earned a seat at the table and is a tribute to the courage it takes to chase a dream.

Try this:

2024 Jim Barry Assyrtiko

RRP $37.99

Negociants

This is the ninth vintage of Jim Barry Assyrtiko and has fantastic balance thanks to its succulent acidity and lush textural palate – driven by glycerol and weight in the wine rather than residual sugar (of which there is none) and layers of flavour. Citrus aromas, lemon and lime zest flavours and an impressive mid-palate all give this wine a commanding taste.

Marisco toasts IWC White Winemaker of the Year

ONE OF New Zealand’s top winemakers has been recognised on the global stage as one of the best in the world – with the International Wine Challenge awarding Brent Marris of Marisco Vineyards the coveted title of White Winemaker of the Year.

It is just the second time in 17 years that a New Zealander has won the award, which recognises winemakers who have achieved consistent excellence and outstanding quality across multiple entries in the International Wine Challenge competition.

Brent Marris says the win is incredibly meaningful. “This is likely to be the biggest accolade of my career. It’s such an internationally respected wine competition that to be recognised is truly humbling. It is a testament to the dedication of our team at Marisco Vineyards, and to the New Zealand wine industry as a whole.”

The 2025 International Wine Challenge saw the wider Marisco Vineyards portfolio awarded with Gold medals across Emma Marris, Leefield Station and The Ned wines, as well as IWC Great Value Champion White 2025 for The Ned Pinot Grigio 2024 and the Marlborough Chardonnay Trophy for Emma Marris Chardonnay 2023 and the Marlborough Pinot Noir Trophy for Emma Marris Pinot Noir 2023.

Marisco and Marlborough in the spotlight

Brent Marris says his win for White Winemaker of the Year shines a light on both Marisco and the wider New Zealand wine industry.

“The global stage is competitive, so to receive this recognition for both Marisco Vineyards and Marlborough is a tremendous achievement. And what’s exciting is that it wasn’t just one variety, it was across multiple varieties. So that’s talking to the team and it’s talking to Marlborough.

“It’s not just saying, ‘Hey, we’re all about Sauvignon Blanc – it’s also saying we’ve got Pinot Noir, we’ve got Chardonnay, we’ve got Pinot Gris and other varieties that are ticking the boxes in the global market too.”

“This is likely to be the biggest accolade of my career. It’s such an internationally respected wine competition that to be recognised is truly humbling.”

– Brent Marris, Marisco Vineyards.

He says that Marisco’s home in the Waihopai Valley offers a point of difference in its sub-regionality, alongside the work the team is doing in diversifying the portfolio, such as the premiumisation of Sauvignon Blanc.

“It’s all about keeping Sauvignon Blanc exciting,” explains Brent, “and then there’s the fact that the world is really loving fresh, bright white wine. So our Pinot Gris, our Rosé our sparkling wines, they’re all

being put under the spotlight with buyers saying ‘These should all be considered for the consumer.’”

Looking to the next generation

Emma Marris Wines, which won two Marlborough trophies at the IWC is the next generation of the family business, and Brent Marris says the wins are a significant achievement for his daughter’s brand.

“Emma has her own style and focus which is exciting to see and the viticulture and wine making team are right behind her.

“They’re a style of wine that focuses on select parcels of fruit from Leefield Station Vineyard... and it’s what ultimately she sees as value in a style. It highlights that next generation within our family and our family wine business.”

Marlborough to host Sauvignon Blanc NZ 2027

MARLBOROUGH HAS won hosting rights for the Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027 Conference.

The successful bid for the conference, which will be held in February 2027, was supported by Wine Marlborough, Business Events Marlborough (part of Destination Marlborough), and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.

Natalie Christensen, Chair of Sauvignon 2027, says it was a unanimous decision from the Sauvignon 2027 organising committee for Marlborough to be the chosen destination. “Hosting Sauvignon 2027 in Marlborough will allow us to create a truly unique and memorable experience, for both our international guests and industry alike,” she says.

Marlborough previously hosted the conferences in both 2016 and 2019, with the latter rated “world class” by delegates.

“We are excited that more than 400 delegates will come to the region, not only for the legacy and sector value, but for the unique opportunity for delegates to immerse themselves in the essence of Marlborough,” says GM Destination Marlborough Tracey Green.

The conference is estimated to deliver an economic impact of more than $900,000 to Marlborough.

New World reveals Top 50 Wines under $30

A LIST of 50 wines has been selected from more than 1,000 entrants from New Zealand and around the world for the New World Wine Awards 2025.

A judging panel of independent wine experts led by Chair Jen Parr and Deputy Chair Murry Cook assessed the wines using the internationally recognised 100-point system.

Champion titles were also awarded to a select few wines, including Champion White Wine for The Hunting Lodge Seasonal Albariño Marlborough 2025; Champion Red Wine for Church Road McDonald Series Syrah 2021; and Champion Sparkling Wine for Lindauer Special Reserve Brut NV.

The judges also highlighted international place-getters Brown Brothers Sparkling Moscato 2024 (Australia), Grande Cuvée 1531 Rosé Crémant de Limoux NV (France), and Taylors Estate Tempranillo 2024 (Australia).

See the full Top 50 list at newworld.co.nz/wineawards

Lindauer – NZ’s best kept secret for celebrations

ENJOY, BECAUSE the judges did!

Lindauer is celebrating another stellar awards season, which included a Champion Trophy, six Gold Medals, and eight Silver Medals across a range of major awards shows this year.

A Kiwi favourite at gatherings and in the fridge, Lindauer is very well-known for reaping awards year on year and is proudly New Zealand’s most-awarded bubbles. Expect exceptional quality without the price tag – Lindauer is all about being accessible and available to celebrate the everyday occasions with friends.

Lindauer Prosecco – A taste of Italy

Lindauer D.O.C Prosecco is a collaboration between New Zealand’s most awarded Sparkling winemaker Jane De Witt and the talents of Famiglia Zonin, an Italian family with roots in the Prosecco winemaking tradition since 1821.

The D.O.C. indication on the label lets consumers know that this is an authentic Italian Prosecco, made with 100% Glera grapes grown in Italy’s Veneto region, which is famous for Prosecco.

Lindauer Prosecco has a creamy palate with hints of jasmine mixed with notes of

fresh red apple and ripe citrus. Fresh and fabulous to enjoy straight away!

Jump on the trend – Hugo Spritz Season

While being the new kid on the block, the Hugo Spritz jumped from obscurity into the mainstream cocktail list over the last year. Lindauer Prosecco is the perfect partner for this light, floral, and effervescent Spritz that captures the essence of a European summer.

• 120ml Lindauer D.O.C Prosecco

• 30ml St Germain Elderflower Liqueur

• 30ml soda water

• Lime wheel

• Mint leaves plus mint sprig for garnish

Add St Germain and mint leaves to a wine glass. Add ice, Lindauer Prosecco and soda. Stir briefly. Garnish with lime wheel and mint sprig.

Lindauer D.O.C Prosecco (White and Rosé) – RRP $21.99

Lindauer Special Reserve (Blanc de Blanc, Brut Cuvée and Rosé) – RRP $21.99

Lindauer is distributed by Lion.

IWC triumph for New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND has stood out at this year’s International Wine Challenge with a Champion Winemaker award, three International Varietal Trophy Wines and 32 Gold medals.

New Zealand won the International Merlot Trophy for Church Road 1 Merlot 2021, the International Syrah Trophy for Glenora Estate Syrah 2024, and the International Sauvignon Blanc Trophy for Villa Maria Reserve Coastal Awatere Sauvignon Blanc 2024.

Brent Marris, founder and winemaker of Marisco Vineyards, was named IWC White Winemaker of the Year, just the second time in 17 years that a New Zealander has won the award. “To be recognised with such an accolade in a global competition is truly humbling,” said Marris. “It is a testament to the dedication of our team at Marisco Vineyards, and the New Zealand wine industry as a whole.”

In total, New Zealand wines won 32 Golds, 121 Silvers, and 98 Bronzes at IWC 2025.

Top NZ wines at IWC 2025:

Church Road 1 Merlot 2021 – International Merlot Trophy, New Zealand Merlot Trophy, Gimblett Gravels Merlot Trophy

Glenora Estate Syrah 2024 – International Syrah Trophy, New Zealand Syrah, Waiheke Island Syrah Trophy

Villa Maria Reserve Coastal Awatere Sauvignon Blanc 2024

– International Sauvignon Blanc Trophy, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc Trophy

Clos Ostler Caroline’s Pinot Noir 2021 – New Zealand Red Trophy, New Zealand Pinot Noir Trophy, North Otago Pinot Noir Trophy

Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2022 – New Zealand White Trophy, New Zealand Chardonnay Trophy, Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay Trophy

Brancott Estate Letter Series B Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc 2023 – Late Harvest Dessert Trophy

See the full list of winners at internationalwinechallenge.com

New Brown Brothers

Prosecco

Spritz

BROWN BROTHERS has launched two new spritz-style drinks in time for summer: Brown Brothers Prosecco Yuzu Lemon Spritz and Brown Brothers Prosecco Orange Spritz. Designed to be served over ice, the wines tap into the growing consumer demand for elevated yet easydrinking options.

“Innovation is in our DNA,” says Emma Brown, Head of Innovation and fourth-generation Brown family at Brown Family Wine Group. “These launches not only build on our Prosecco credentials but also bring to life the flavours that today’s drinkers are craving.”

Brown Brothers Prosecco Yuzu Lemon Spritz and Brown Brothers Prosecco Orange Spritz are RRP $19.99.

Taylor Brown

Stoneleigh extends ASB Classic sponsorship

STONELEIGH HAS renewed its three-year commitment as Official Wine Sponsor of the ASB Classic in Auckland.

As part of the sponsorship, Stoneleigh says it will bring back its nationwide Vibrancy campaign for a second year, with fresh visuals and new opportunities for consumers to engage with the brand first-hand.

“Stoneleigh’s dedication to creating a vibrant and immersive experience makes them the perfect partner for our event, and we’re excited to continue our partnership,” said Nicolas Lamperin, ASB Classic Tournament Director.

New era and brand identity for Hunter’s

HUNTER’S, ONE of Marlborough’s most enduring and respected wineries, is entering a new era as Jane Hunter starts to pass the reins to the next generation.

Founded in 1979 by Ernie and Jane Hunter, Hunter’s was one of the original champions of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and more than four decades later it remains Marlborough’s oldest singlefamily-owned winery. Now, that family legacy continues with Jane Hunter, CNMZ OBE, set to hand over to her nephews, James and Edward Macdonald.

This generational transition marks a significant evolution for the brand and includes the launch of refreshed and elevated branding across Hunter’s three distinct wine ranges: The Estate Range, The MiruMiru™ range, and The Offshoot range.

“This is not about reinventing the wheel,” says James Macdonald. “It is about carrying forward the integrity, independence and spirit of Hunter’s in a way that speaks to the next generation through thoughtful innovation, a premium yet approachable offering and an even

deeper commitment to the land that has given us so much.”

Jane Hunter remains closely involved and continues to offer guidance as the family business continues its journey. “I’m immensely proud of what we’ve built over the years,” she says, “and I’m equally proud to see the next generation step up with clarity, energy and a vision rooted in both respect and ambition.”

New winemaker for Čuvar Winery

ČUVAR WINERY has announced that Dave Mackintosh has joined its team as Senior Winemaker, taking over from Michelle Richardson.

Founded by Sir George Fistonich in 2023, Čuvar is part of the wider Fistonich Family Vineyards portfolio.

Dave Mackintosh grew up in Hawke’s Bay and completed a degree in Viticulture and Oenology at Lincoln University. He gained experience across Marlborough, Canterbury, and Hawke’s Bay before heading overseas. His career has taken him through Burgundy, Oregon, the Hunter Valley, and the Yarra Valley, where he spent five years at Giant Steps before launching his own label, Arfion. More recently, he started Kenzie Wines in Hawke’s Bay. He joined the Čuvar team in January this year.

Paradise Prosecco –perfect for summer

“I’m excited to craft wines that tell the story of Hawke’s Bay –its seasons, its soils, its people,” says Dave, “and to build on the incredible foundation laid by Michelle and the Fistonich family.”

Pipi sparkling Albariño debuts

WINEMAKER LAUREN Swift has released the country’s first sparkling Albariño. Named Pipi, for one of her three sausage dogs, the wine is made from 2025 vintage fruit grown at Hawke’s Bay’s Two Terraces vineyard.

The wine is described as evoking Hawke’s Bay sunshine, with bright aromatics and a hint of salty sea breeze. The grapes are given a short skin soak to boost flavour and soften acidity, before a natural ferment in neutral barrels. A few months resting on lees adds texture and depth, then the natural effervescence is locked and loaded with a gentle sparkle.

2025 Pipi Sparkling Albariño (12% ABV) is RRP $39.90.

Blanc Beverages

A dry, fresh and crisp style of Prosecco, Paradise Prosecco is made from 100% Glera grapes grown on certified sustainable vineyards in Riverland, South Australia.

It won Gold (95 Points) at the 2025 New World Wine Awards and has been Wine Diamonds’ best-selling wine by number of bottles sold since 2022. It is available by the bottle or in 20L keg.

Paradise Prosecco – the versatile sparkling Paradise Prosecco Black Label delivers a dry, fresh and crisp profile, with lively aromas of citrus and stone fruit, as well as green apple, pear, and orange blossom.

Light-bodied and fresh on the palate, its gentle mousse gives texture, vivid acidity for lift and a clean, long finish that makes it wonderfully refreshing and easy to drink.

Paradise Prosecco is delicious on its own or when paired with Aperol or Campari in a spritz. It makes for a great cocktail as it is light, fresh and dry.

Vintage and viticulture

The fruit was machine harvested, after which it was pressed into stainless steel tank where it underwent a cool, inoculated ferment through to dry. The wine was then racked off its fine yeast lees, filtered and then carbonated into bottle where it is packaged under cork and cage.

The vintage is not designated on the label, but the present blend is 100% from 2025 vintage. Paradise Prosecco is 11.5% ABV.

Paradise Prosecco is available to order from Wine Diamonds. Trade price $8.70 excl GST (case of 12).

orders@winediamonds.co.nz

0800 177 282 winediamonds.co.nz

Summer’s coming

The latest brews to get into the chiller for the busy summer crowds...

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

Michelob ULTRA

4.2% ABV, 355ml 6-pack bottle RRP $21.99 and 12-pack bottle and can RRP $31.99 Hancocks

The biggest-selling beer in the U.S. has landed in New Zealand. Michelob ULTRA is a low carb beer with just 95 calories – described as being brewed for “the social athlete”, the brand has built strong lifestyle positioning and global sports partnerships since its launch in 2002. Michelob ULTRA is a balanced, refreshing brew with a light citrus aroma and a crisp finish.

Sawmill Ultra Mello

4.2% ABV, 330ml 6-pack RRP $21.99 – also in keg Sawmill

Sawmill’s new entry into the low-carb ranks is Ultra Mello – an ultra-low carb lager that delivers bright, juicy passionfruit and mango flavour with a crisp, clean finish. Ultra Mello is also joining Sawmill’s core range.

Sawmill Watermelon & Calamansi Sour

4.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 Sawmill

This kettle-soured offering is sunshine in a can – loaded with juicy watermelon for sweet summer vibes and calamansi juice for a sharp citrus cut-through. Pacific Gem hops and ale yeast fermentation produce a dry, acidic and fruity beverage that’s full of flavour.

The biggest-selling beer in the U.S. has landed in New Zealand: Michelob ULTRA is a low carb beer with just 95 calories.

Sprig + Fern Haze of the People Four on Tour

4.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.49 and 888ml RRP $13.49 –out 19 Nov. Sprig + Fern

For the fourth edition of the Haze of the People series, Nelson brewers Sprig + Fern once again asked the public to choose the hops. The result is a globe-trotting line-up of NZH-106, Saphir, Citra and Vic Secret, coming together from New Zealand, Germany, the USA and Australia – hence the name: ‘Four on Tour’. This hop combo sends out bright notes of citrus peel and tropical fruit, with floral overtones. Expect juicy stone fruit and a touch of lime zest, rounded out by a soft, herbal, and resinous palate. The finish is smooth, refreshing and layered.

Kaiserdom Beer Helles

4.9% ABV, 1L RRP $10.99

Q Liquid

The Kaiserdom Specialitäten Brauerei in Bamberg, Germany has existed since 1718 and has been owned by the Wörner family for over 100 years. Their Beer Helles pours light yellow and crystal clear in the glass with a compact, snow-white head. A fresh beer that combines fine-sweet malt notes with delicate floral hop aromas and a mild hoppy bitterness.

Gubernija Beer Brew League

Lagered Ale

4.9% ABV, 500ml RRP $4.99 Q Liquid

Founded in 1665, Lithuanian brewery Gubernija is one of the oldest breweries – and one of the oldest businesses – in the world. Their Kolsch-inspired ale is a light, golden beer with a delicate fruity and floral aroma and a balance of malty sweetness and mild hop bitterness.

Gubernija Beer Brew League

Sauvin IPA

4.9% ABV, 500ml RRP $4.99 Q Liquid

Gubernija’s Sauvin IPA is a hazy, intensely yellow New England IPA with a dense white head. The aroma is dominated by gooseberries with citrus, tropical fruit, fresh cut grass and hints of cinnamon and clove. The flavour is hop-forward, balanced by a light malty sweetness, with a dry finish and lingering bitterness.

Duncan’s Peach & Basil 복숭아

Fruited Sour

5.1% ABV, 440ml RRP $12

Duncan’s

Duncan’s joins forces with the talented crew from Seoul Brewing in South Korea to deliver this crispy and refreshing fruited sour, bursting with juicy peach and a hint of basil.

Bach Polygamy Bohemian Pilsner

5.2% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Bach Brewing

Bach’s Polygamy Bohemian Pilsner is based on their Czechmate Pilsner recipe, which was twice crowned Champion International Style Lager at the Brewers Guild’s NZ Beer Awards. Polygamy is brewed with Bohemian Pilsner malts and noble Czech Saaz hops for a smooth soft maltiness, firm hop bitterness, and a crisp refreshing finish.

Behemoth Porch Pounder APA

5.2% ABV, 440ml RRP $5.99

Behemoth

Brewed in collaboration with legendary Auckland hot chicken shop Peach’s, Behemoth’s Porch Pounder is an American Pale Ale with just the right amount of grunt. The hoppy nose gives way to a well-balanced and sessionable ale with aromatic citrusy notes. Perfect for cutting through the burn of a piece of spicy chicken goodness.

Sprig + Fern Bright NZ IPA

5.2% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.49 and 888ml RRP $13.49

Sprig + Fern

All the joys of spring are captured in Sprig + Fern’s new Bright NZ IPA. Packed with Nelson Sauvin, NZH-109, and Riwaka, it’s a celebration of some of the country’s best hops. From the first pour, bright aromas of white grape, juicy stone fruit and citrus zest leap from the glass, backed by hints of tropical sweetness and a touch of pine. Layers of fresh, expressive hop flavour create a refreshing, bold, bright, characterful brew.

8-Wired have turned their award-winning hands to the low carb category with new release Kick Back Low Carb IPA.

8-Wired Kick Back Low Carb IPA

5.25% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

8-Wired

8-Wired have turned their award-winning hands to the low carb category. Kick Back is 98% carb-free but still manages to be a luscious, punchy, and full-flavoured IPA. Brewed with New Zealand Nectaron, Superdelic, and Nelson Sauvin hops, Kick Back is a low-carb answer to the vibrant tropical IPA.

Altitude Stange’s Ankle Biter

5.4% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Altitude Brewing

This limited release was brewed in collaboration with Scott Janish and Michael Tonsmeire of Sapwood Cellars in Maryland, U.S.A. The team at Altitude say the duo’s reputation for precision, innovation, and downright delicious beer has made Sapwood one of that country’s most exciting small breweries. Named for Craft Beer & Brewing editor Joe Stange, Stange’s Ankle Biter is a vibrant New Zealand pilsner layered with fresh New Zealand hops. The addition of a touch of rye malt has added a subtle spice before a clean, crisp finish. Aromatic, dry, and refreshingly complex, this beer is built for thoughtful sipping and easy enjoyment.

Sawmill Peach & Guava Hazy Pale Ale

5.5% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99

Sawmill

This is a vibrant and summery hazy pale ale from the team at Sawmill. Brewed with real peach and guava, the fruit flavours mingle with the stone fruit, mango and citrus hop characteristics from the Rakau, El Dorado, and Mosaic hops, while a soft malt base supports the natural fruit acidity. A juicy, modern pale ale that is hazy and expressive.

Duncan’s Blackcurrant & Maple Waffle

Pastry Sour

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $12

Duncan’s

Back for another round of waffle wizardry, this pastry sour from Duncan’s packs a punch of tart blackcurrants drizzled in maple, swirled with vanilla, and with a splash of dreamy lactose.

Sawmill Coconut & Lime Hazy IPA

6% ABV, 330ml RRP $5.99

Sawmill

You know summer is near when you’re drinking a coconut and lime-infused hazy IPA. A biscuit base is balanced with a large dose of Sabro hops from the U.S.A for a heady brew with heaps of citrus juice to cut through the creamy base. A thirst-quenching summer tropical explosion.

Sawmill Pineapple Hazy IPA

6% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 – out early December

Sawmill

This 6% hazy IPA from Sawmill is loaded with real pineapple and hopped generously with Galaxy, Nectaron and Azacca hops. Juicy, ripe pineapple leads the charge with layers of passionfruit, mango and citrus hop character. The haze produces a soft, plush mouthfeel and finishes smooth and balanced with just enough bitterness. A bold, fruit-forward hazy that delivers on freshness without tipping into sweetness.

Bach Phuket Another Hazy IPA

6.1% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Bach Brewing

Bach have gone for it with this release, loading it with big hop aromas from Citra, Nelson Sauvin, Idaho-7 and the new trial hop Manilita from Freestyle Hops in Upper Moutere. The result is a hazy bursting with a tropical fruit basket of aromas: red grapefruit, lime, passionfruit, guava, and a hint of pine and black tea.

Duncan’s Piña Colada II Hazy IPA

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $12

Duncan’s

Bring on summer! The team at Duncan’s have gone full tropical trouble (again). This hazy is packed full of Sabro hops and coconut milk, heading straight for a lagoon of piña colada hazy pleasure.

Duncan’s Rainier WCIPA

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $12

Duncan’s

The crew at Duncan’s describe Rainier as: “what happens when the Pacific North West Cascade Mountains throw a hop party and invite all their wildest friends”. Expect a heady, hoppy mash-up of El Dorado, Simcoe, Chinook, Citra, and Cascade.

McLeod’s Northland Chic

6.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

McLeod’s

Some things don’t need polish to shine. McLeod’s Northland Chic is brimming with Amarillo, El Dorado and Comet hops – a bright, lively trio that shoots across the glass with bursts of tropical fruit, citrus zing and a hint of herbal stone fruit. Plush, juicy, and full of character – a beer that wears its unfiltered edge with style.

Sawmill Big Sur West Coast IPA

6.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99 – out early December

Sawmill

Named for the famous rugged section of Californian coastline, Sawmill’s Big Sur is a classic in the West Coast IPA style. Columbus, Centennial, and Citra hops bring bright citrus and pine flavours while Nelson Sauvin and Eclipse hops impart punchy notes of grapefruit, gooseberry, and tropical resin. One for hop enthusiasts, Big Sur is a clean-cut IPA with modern hop layers, an assertive, crisp bitterness, and a dry finish.

Bach’s Phuket Another Hazy IPA is loaded with big hop aromas from Citra, Nelson Sauvin, Idaho-7 and the new trial hop Manilita from Freestyle Hops in Upper Moutere.

Altitude Hwachae Milkshake IPA

6.8% ABV,  440ml RRP $10.99

Altitude Brewing

Queenstown brewers Altitude have collaborated with South Korea’s Seoul Brewery to produce Hwachae Milkshake IPA – an ale that celebrates Korean tradition with a bold, modern twist. Drawing inspiration from ‘hwachae’ – a colourful Korean summer fruit punch – the team have produced a drop packed with mango, banana, and golden kiwifruit, layered into a creamy, hazy IPA.

Altitude White Water Series #7: Dog Leg Hazy IPA - Dolcita and Motueka

6.9% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

Altitude Brewing

The team at Altitude were offered an exclusive opportunity to brew with new hop ‘Dolcita’, giving them a chance to whip out another volume of their experimental hop series of hazies. This new hop from the USA offers pronounced peach candy aromas with a bit of pineapple cake and clotted cream, and they’ve paired it with a smidge of their own hand-selected Nelson-grown Motueka. Expect big, juicy, sweet stone fruit wrapped up in Altitude’s signature soft mouthfeel.

McLeod’s Liquid Hop IPA

6.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $10.99

McLeod’s

Using the latest liquid hop technology out of the Pacific Northwest, McLeod’s have brewed up a Citra and Mosaic hop stunner that’s bursting with flavour. This IPA features ripe mango, zesty lime, and a lick of grapefruit, all riding on a wave of bright, juicy goodness.

McLeod’s 802 #71

6.8% ABV, 440ml RRP $11.99

McLeod’s

McLeod’s 802 series is a range of unfiltered IPAs named after the area code for Vermont – the heart of the Green Mountain State and the birthplace of the modern American hazy IPA. #71 incorporates Luminosa and Citra hops for grapefruit, peach, mango, and lemonade flavours and Strata for dank berry and passionfruit notes. A juicy malt base amplifies the mango-stone fruit punch and makes for a smooth-drinking sunshine fruit bomb.

8-Wired Whisky Sour Barrel Aged

Sour Ale

8% ABV, 330ml RRP $10.99

8-Wired

When 8-Wired made a single malt, they were left with a bunch of whisky barrels. What do you do when life gives you whisky barrels? Make beer, of course. Conditioning their popular sour beers in the barrels has imparted a hint of whisky and oak. And then, for good measure, they’ve added a splash of lemon to make a refreshing, complex, and satisfying whisky sour beer.

Elemental Cider’s new Apple Blossom Dry Cider is built around a brandnew apple variety found only in Aotearoa.

Behemoth Snow Mexican Maple Syrup

Imperial Stout

8% ABV, 440ml RRP $8.99

Behemoth

An ode to Canada in all its glory, Behemoth’s Snow Mexican is a big, dark Imperial Stout loaded with maple syrup for a sticky caramel treat of a beer. With the familiar Behemoth monster in a Mountie’s uniform on the can, it pours dark and foreboding in the glass. The nose is sweet and in the mouth it’s even sweeter – like a dark and treacley spotted dick pudding.

Behemoth Big Fish Chocolate

Raspberry Imperial Stout

8% ABV, 440ml RRP $11.99

Behemoth

The Big Fish in question here is one of those classic chocolate fish with raspberry marshmallow inside – except this one has gone rogue. Behemoth have taken a conventional Imperial Stout – dark, boozy and chocolatey – and loaded it with raspberry for a veritable dessert of a beer. Sweet, flavourful and fun.

Duncan’s Malbec Brett Wild Sour

8.5% ABV, 440ml RRP $13

Duncan’s

This wild ferment was born out of a Hawke’s Bay mission. The story features a broken van, stranded staff, and grapes fermenting where they shouldn’t. But from the chaos came this wild sour brimming with funky Brett character, tannish Malbec grapes, and a crisp, clean finish.

Behemoth Hophemoth Triple Hazy IPA

10% ABV, 440ml RRP $9.99

Behemoth

The crew at Behemoth have unleashed an absolute monster of an ale here – Hophemoth is a 10% ABV (!) Triple Hazy IPA. While it has the sweetness you’d expect from a high-alcohol ale, the haze and the combo of tropical, citrus and stone fruit hop flavours combine for a deliciously drinkable drop. As the can warns: may cause excessive high fives and poor karaoke decisions.

CIDER

Elemental Apple Blossom Dry Cider

7% ABV, 500ml RRP $11 and 750ml RRP $16.50

Elemental

Looking for something genuinely new?

Elemental Cider’s new Apple Blossom Dry Cider is built around a brand-new apple variety found only in Aotearoa. True to its name, this cider bursts with delicate floral aromatics before opening into ripe nectarine and peach-skin brightness. The palate is feather-light yet purposeful – bone dry, finely textured, and refreshingly clean on the finish. A refined addition to the premium cider category. Sugarfree, gluten-free, and vegan friendly. (Fun fact: the new apple variety has been named “Pure Blossom”, inspired by Elemental’s cider!)

Michelob ULTRA lands in NZ

KIWI CONSUMERS can now try the #1-selling beer in the U.S. with the arrival of Michelob ULTRA, available in New Zealand through Hancocks.

Michelob ULTRA entered the U.S. market in 2002 and redefined the light beer category. In September this year it reached a new pinnacle, becoming America’s top-selling beer – claiming the #1 spot for the previous 52 weeks in retail channels, and leading in bars and restaurants too.1

“Consumers are buying more Michelob ULTRA than any other beer in America,” says Scott Scanlon, Executive Vice President of Category Insights at Circana, the leader in providing data to consumerpackaged goods companies. “The brand stands out as the growth leader in the industry, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.”

Meeting NZ demand for low carb options

Michelob ULTRA will be a key addition to New Zealand’s rapidly growing low carb category as Kiwi consumers continue to seek out more health-conscious beverage options.

Brewed with barley malt, rice, hops, and a pure-cultured yeast strain, the choice of grains and extended mashing process leads to the beer’s refreshing taste and fewer carbohydrates.

With just 95 calories, 2.6 carbs and no artificial flavours or colours, Michelob ULTRA is a superior low carb beer that celebrates the active, balanced lifestyle of its drinkers that includes both fitness and fun.

“Consumers are buying more Michelob ULTRA than any other beer in America. The brand stands out as the growth leader in the industry, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.”

– Scott Scanlon, Executive VP of Category Insights, Circana.

Hancocks Senior Brand Manager

John Yoo says it’s an exciting time to be bringing Michelob ULTRA to market in New Zealand. “It’s a real privilege to introduce the world’s No.1 low carb beer to New Zealand. We’re proud to welcome Michelob Ultra to the Hancocks family and are very excited to share this quality brand with Kiwi drinkers.”

The right consumer connections

Parent company Anheuser-Busch says the #1 milestone reflects decades of disciplined, consistent investment in Michelob ULTRA around America’s most popular sporting and active-lifestyle moments and as a pioneer in tapping into consumer preferences for balanced choices.

Kyle Norrington, Chief Commercial Officer, Anheuser-Busch says that for more than 20 years Michelob ULTRA has connected with its fans during the occasions they love. “The brand’s playbook has been simple and relentless: invest, learn, and execute as the Official Beer Sponsor of America’s most prominent sports and active-lifestyle moments from Team USA to the NBA to the upcoming FIFA World

Cup 2026™ and LA 2028 games to a 30+ year partnership with the PGA Tour.

“This approach has turned Michelob ULTRA into an absolute rocket ship, and we’ve got tremendous opportunity ahead of us. This is a proud moment for our teams and partners and speaks to the resilience of the American beer category.”

Leaning into its proven strategy, Michelob ULTRA has major investments on the horizon – including the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

Combined with supporting Team USA as the exclusive beer sponsor for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Milano Cortina 2026, Los Angeles 2028, and as the Official Beer Sponsor of the LA28 Games, Michelob ULTRA will continue to connect with fans through impactful creative with precision execution at scale, converting awareness into repeat purchase to keep the momentum going.

To stock Michelob ULTRA contact your Hancocks representative or phone 0800 699 463.

1: Circana MULC+ US L52W Volume w.e 9/14/25; Nielsen IQ On Premise Total US volume w.e 7/12/25

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

A question of maturity

As 2025 draws to a close, Michael Donaldson reflects on a challenging year for brewers but senses a shift in the wind...

WE ARE now in what people are calling a “mature” craft beer market. What does that mean? The explosive growth of the 2010s is definitely over and the market is settling.

I think of that growth era as being like a reverse game of musical chairs… instead of one less chair per round, there was one extra, and breweries opened to fill the demand. Then, suddenly, the game went back to traditional rules. The chairs reduced and we’ve seen players exit the arena.

This year saw some heavy casualties with Fortune Favours and Hop Federation both going out of business. Other small craft breweries have also fallen by the wayside. The question now is have we reached an equilibrium point where we have the right number of players for the available seats?

Constellation Brands, one of the biggest players in the world beer market, recently stated it was cautiously optimistic about the fact it had reached the bottom of the curve.

Its CEO Bill Newlands said: “We’re cautiously, and I would stress that word again, ‘cautiously’ optimistic that we’ve hit the bottom here. But the volatility, as I said, is unprecedented, and the results are very mixed.”

Anecdotally, that’s about the best description I could give about the market in New Zealand – as they used to say in the ads: “results may vary”. Some breweries continue to do it incredibly tough while others are seeing

excellent growth. Case in point this year was large expansion at Urbanaut in Auckland and at Altitude Brewing in Queenstown.

What both those breweries have in common are very good taprooms – great experiences – and they’ve made a strong investment in looking after their local area.

There are other similarly positive stories: Brave Brewing in Hastings, Champion Brewery at this year’s NZ Beer Awards, goes from strength to strength and will always note the huge support they have from their locals.

Some breweries continue to do it incredibly tough while others are seeing excellent growth.

Garage Project took over the Fortune Favours space in Wellington and are the brewery partner for the revitalisation of the band rotunda in Oriental Bay. While Garage Project are a national brand they’re very much a Wellington business, and that local support stands them in good stead. The fact they’ve “doubled down” on Wellington, to use the words of founder Pete Gillespie, suggests confidence despite the state of the capital’s hospo economy.

On that note, it used to be said that beer was recession-proof, but the past

few years have told a different story –craft beer, like other premium alcohol categories, is a nice-to-have, and when times are tough people change their spending habits.

With craft beer, the recession came after that period of sustained growth, so, relatively, it looks like the category is falling off a cliff. That’s not the case, but at the same time craft beer is not immune to the broad market pressures: we are in a shrinking alcohol market as people around the world drink less and less each year –notably the main growth areas continue to be “better for you” beers, such as nonalcoholic and low carb options.

Beer cannot escape the 21st century trend towards better health and wellness, but within that contracting space there’s still a big audience for our most popular cold beverage.

In the expansionist days of craft, meeting the market just meant making more IPA. Now it’s about building a local connection, offering a variety of products (including hard lemonades, ginger beers, non-alcs, low carbs etc), as well as delivering a great on-premise experience and building brand loyalty through reliable, consistent and high-quality offerings on the supermarket shelves.

Having said all that, as one brewer quipped to me recently, as much as things change there remains one constant: “People like drinking beer outside when it’s warm.”

A great summer will make all the difference.

NZ’s best ciders and fruit wines for 2025 revealed

NEW ZEALAND’S top cider and fruit wine producers were recognised at the 36th Annual New Zealand Fruit Wine & Cider Awards, held in Nelson at the end of October, and hosted by the Fruit Wine and Cider Makers Association (FWCMA). The competition drew 117 entries from across New Zealand, with judges noting a lift in technical excellence, diversity and the confidence of producers to push boundaries. This year also marked the debut of the new ‘NZ Origin Cider’ category, which was introduced to celebrate apple varieties unique to Aotearoa and the innovative styles emerging from them.

Elemental Cider leads Champion awards

Kapiti-Horowhenua’s Elemental Cider claimed the top honour of Champion Producer, impressing judges with a range that balanced tradition, structure and fresh thinking. Their entries earned two Best in Class trophies, two Golds, five Silvers and one Bronze. Judges praised the brand’s delicate florals, dry blends and skilful use of indigenous botanicals as a benchmark for contemporary cider craft. Champion Cider was awarded to Peckham’s Cidery & Orchard for ‘Bitter Harry’, described by judges as “a

commanding traditional cider with firm tannins and layered notes of leather, spice and caramel. A standout of classic craft.”

Champion Fruit Wine went to Mirabelle Fruit Wine for ‘Crimson Spice Sweet Plum Mead’, with judges noting its “rich

Champion Award Winners

Champion Producer: Elemental Cider

Champion Cider: Peckham’s Cidery & Orchard - Bitter Harry

Champion Fruit Wine: Mirabelle Fruit Wine - Crimson Spice Sweet Plum Mead

Trophy Winners - 2025 NZ Cider Awards

Modern Cider: Zeffer - Crisp Apple

Traditional Cider (Alex Peckham Memorial Trophy): Peckham’s Orchard & Cidery - Bitter Harry

Cider with Non-Berry Fruit: MataGolden Kiwi

Cider with Berry Fruit: Old MillFarmhouse Blackberry

Cider with Hops, Spices & Botanicals: Elemental Cider - Pōhutukawa Flower

Specialty Cider: Scoundrels & RoguesCold Shoulder Ice Cider

aromatics and beautifully balanced integration of plum, honey and spice.”

Judges applaud range and direction

The judging panels highlighted strong performances from both traditional tannin-forward ciders and modern fruitforward, low-ABV and botanical styles. The Fruit Wine categories showcased entries spanning plums, berries, feijoa, citrus and stone fruit, with producers exploring sparkling, sessionable, and premium formats.

A panel of six senior judges and two associate judges, led by chair Merophy Hyslop, awarded 17 trophies, 21 Gold, 32 Silver, and 42 Bronze medals. Hyslop said the Awards reflect “...a maturing industry grounded in provenance and driven by innovation. From truly impressive bottlefermented releases to zero-alcohol ciders with full sensory weight.”

Bottle-Fermented Cider: Elemental Cider - Dry As

Low/Zero Alcohol Cider: Zeffer - 0% Passionfruit

NZ Origin Cider: The Cider FactorieAporo’ Secco

Trophy Winners - 2025 NZ Fruit Wine Awards

Alcoholic Soft Drinks: Ranga - Alcoholic Lemonade with Lime & Bitters

Table Fruit Wine: Lothlorien WineryDry Sparkling Apple & Feijoa Fruit Wine

Fortified Fruit Wine/Liqueur: Ruahine

Ports - Grumpy Goose

Mead: Mirabelle Fruit Wine - Crimson Spice Sweet Plum Mead

Low/Zero Alcohol Fruit Wine: Kombucha Bros - Pitahaya [Dragonfruit] & Pineapple

For full results and photos visit cider.org.nz

New Ultra Mello joins Sawmill core range

SUMMER FLAVOURS meet low carb goodness with the new Ultra Mello fruited lager from Sawmill Brewery. The passionfruit and mango low carb lager (4.2% ABV) will be part of the Matakana brewery’s core range, available in 6-pack cans and in keg. Sawmill

Parrotdog soars with Air New Zealand

WELLINGTON BREWERY Parrotdog has teamed up with Air New Zealand to create ‘Dash-hound’ (5.8% ABV). Launched on 3 November, Dash-hound is a New Zealand IPA brewed with NZH-109 hops and is described as having “tropical fruit notes and a relaxed bitterness”. Dash-hound is available on tap in Air New Zealand Lounges in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, onboard in Business Premier, during Koru Hour across domestic services, and from Parrotdog Lyall Bay on tap or in 330ml 6-packs.

Ciders for summer

JUST IN time for summer, Hamilton brewers Good George are releasing their popular Strawberry Daiquiri Cider and Mango Mimosa Cider in cans (previously only available in squealers).

330ml 4-pack is RRP $19.99

Good George

NEW ZEALAND AWARD WINNING HELLES LAGER

The New Zealand craft beer story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep connection to the pristine, natural environment.

Our Helles Lager embodies the adventurous spirit and purity that New Zealand is known for.

Using premium, locally sourced ingredients, the beer is crafted with a focus on quality and authenticity.

With a bold New Zealand identity, the beer brings a fresh, clean taste to global markets, offering consumers a unique drinking experience that reflects the country’s clean air, pure water, and creative brewing culture.

Steinlager named Official Beer of Golf New Zealand

GOLF NEW Zealand and Steinlager have announced a partnership with Steinlager joining as the Official Beer of Golf New Zealand.

Lion says that the collaboration will extend Steinlager’s ‘New Zealand’s Finest’ brand platform into golf, with upcoming content and promotional campaigns giving golfers the chance to win prizes, experiences, and exclusive giveaways across the country.

Lion will also launch a new commercial offering for golf clubs throughout New Zealand, expanding Steinlager’s presence on the green.

Chae Blewitt, GM Commercial and Marketing at Golf New Zealand, said:

“We’re excited to welcome Steinlager, one of New Zealand’s most iconic brands, as a Golf New Zealand partner. Together, we’ll create more experiences and value for golfers and clubs, celebrating the pride and passion at the heart of our game.”

Lauren Dyke, Steinlager Senior Brand Manager at Lion said that the partnership

builds on Steinlager’s rich sporting legacy.

“At the heart of Steinlager is a beer that champions New Zealand greatness and national pride. Partnering with Golf New Zealand is a natural extension of this longstanding legacy, and we’re excited to back the sport as it continues to grow

Just because you don’t want a beer, it doesn’t mean you don’t want a beer.

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

– celebrating Kiwi golfers, clubs, and communities across the country.”

Previously, Steinlager partnered the 2002 New Zealand Open at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, a landmark event that brought Tiger Woods to New Zealand and captured global attention.

Mexico Made in

Tequila and mezcal add depth to drinks lists and retail shelves – be sure to have a taste of Mexico on hand for your customers…

Tequila – RRP $45-$69.99

Kaloré Cafe Tequila

20% ABV, 1L RRP $49

Hi I.Q. Liquor

A blend of 100% agave tequila with coffee liqueur.

Sauza Gold

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99

Suntory Global

With aromas of sweet caramel and fruit, Sauza Gold has flavours of fresh agave with a hint of caramel and vanilla. Medium-bodied with a sweet finish.

Buen Amigo Coffee Liqueur

35% ABV, 700ml RRP $51.99

EuroVintage

A coffee liqueur made with tequila blanco and high-altitude coffee from the Pluma, Oaxaca region. Sweet with intense notes of coffee and hints of vanilla and chocolate.

Jose Cuervo Especial Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $52.99

Lion

A golden-style tequila from one of the world’s best known tequila brands. Made from a blend of reposado and younger tequilas.

Jose Cuervo Especial Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $52.99

Lion

A smooth tequila with tones of lush agave, caramel, and fresh herbs.

Buen Amigo Gold

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $53.99

EuroVintage

A gold-hued tequila with aromas and flavours of nuts with vanilla and cinnamon.

Buen Amigo Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $53.99

EuroVintage

A young tequila with intense flavour. Subtle notes of peach and lemon.

Mango Shotta

20% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99

Federal

A mango and spicy jalapeño-flavored tequila shot with hints of lime, chamoy (Mexican pickled sauce) and Tajín (Mexican seasoning mix of chilli, lime and salt).

El Jimador Blanco

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Hancocks

A versatile tequila with aromas of agave, apple and spice and mild agave flavour. The finish is smooth, clean and warming.

El Jimador Reposado

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99

Hancocks

Two months in oak gives this tequila its light gold hue, along with flavours of spicy cinnamon and apple.

Bambarria

35-39% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99-$64.99

World@BWS

A versatile tequila available in Blanco and Reposado expressions as well as in several flavoured versions, including Apple & Cinnamon, Café, Coconut, Jalapeño, and Mango.

Orendain Blanco

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $60 and 1L RRP $77 Hi I.Q. Liquor

Aromas of cooked agave and citrus mingle with fresh, light characters and a hint of sweetness. Intense agave flavour with fresh herb notes.

Orendain Reposado

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $61 and 1L RRP $78 Hi I.Q. Liquor

Rich caramel, nut, and jasmine blossom open the aromas of this tequila with cooked agave and citrus notes of tangerine and sweet orange. Smooth on the palate with sweet bitterness, dried fruits and wood.

El Jimador Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Hancocks

A rich tequila with aromas of vanilla, hazelnut and a hint of cinnamon. Aged for 12 months, its agave flavours have mellowed and sit alongside earthy notes with light cinnamon and other spices. A smooth finish with hints of oak and cherry.

Olmeca Altos Plata

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Pernod Ricard

Aromas of sweet cooked agave with herbal notes and a subtle citrus quality. On the palate it is smooth and soft, with lime and lemon characters and a lingering sweetness on the finish.

Olmeca Altos Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99

Pernod Ricard

Ageing for 6-8 months in white oak gives the reposado expression of Olmeca Altos its woody aromas with a hint of sweet orange and vanilla. It is rounded and full on the palate with more sweet orange, cooked agave and subtle wood character.

Espolòn Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $67.99

Campari

A smooth and balanced tequila with delicate aromas of sweet agave, tropical fruit, lemon zest and a hint of pepper that continue on the palate along with vanilla bean, grilled pineapple and spice.

Espolòn Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $67.99

Campari

Six months in American oak barrels gives this tequila a rich golden hue and a spicy nose with a hint of caramel fudge. The taste is bold and full-bodied with rich roasted agave, sweet tropical fruit, vanilla and a long, spicy finish.

Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $67.99

Lion

‘Tradicional’ is the original Cuervo tequila. This 100% blue agave rested tequila has been aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months, giving it a smooth and subtle complexity.

Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $67.99

Lion

A blue agave silver tequila. When bottled, a special process is used to conserve its flavour and finish at freezing temperatures. It’s therefore recommended to keep this tequila in the freezer and serve as a crisp, frozen shot.

ALBA Blanco

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69 socialsmiths

New Zealand brand ALBA sources its tequila 1,500m above sea level in the small town of Magdalena in Mexico’s highland region of Jalisco. Hallmarks include a smooth and slightly sweet finish with fruit characters typical in tequilas of this region. The Blanco has upfront agave aromas with fresh and sharp floral notes.

ALBA Dorado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69 socialsmiths

Like its Blanco sibling (above), the ALBA Pura Dorado hails from the highland region of Jalisco. It has soft, rounded caramel notes with a hint of dried herbs and honey.

Hijos De Villa Blanco Bullet

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.90 World@BWS

Made in Jalisco, this tequila is presented in a distinctive bullet-shaped bottle.

Cazcabel Coconut

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 Federal

A tequila with aromas of sweet coconut and underlying notes of earthy agave. The palate is rich and sweet with warm hints of coconut. The finish is smooth with sweet vegetal notes.

Cazcabel Coffee

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Federal

Aromas of chocolate and coffee with a hint of earthy agave lead to a palate rich with freshly roasted coffee, notes of chocolate, vanilla and agave. A smooth, dry, rich coffee finish.

Cazcabel Honey

34% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99

Federal

Earthy, honey aromas and rich, sweet flavours of warm natural honey with a finish of caramel and smoky notes.

El Padrino Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99

World@BWS

Made at the Casa Maestri distillery in the Mexican town of Tequila, this tequila uses agave harvested from the distillery farm in San Julián.

El Padrino Clementine

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99

World@BWS

Juicy citrus notes of clementine complement a cooked agave character.

El Padrino Coconut

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99

World@BWS

Rich coconut sits alongside classic tequila characters in this flavoured expression.

El Padrino Lime

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99

World@BWS

The tang of lime adds freshness to this flavoured tequila.

El Padrino Mango

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99 World@BWS

Lush mango pairs with cooked agave flavour in this fruity tequila.

El Padrino Passionfruit

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99 World@BWS

The tropical flavour of passionfruit is at the fore of this tequila combined with fruit extracts.

El Padrino Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99 World@BWS

Aged from four to six months in American oak barrels, this tequila has intense flavours of sweet cooked blue agave.

El Padrino Spicy Cucumber

35% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.99-$74.99 World@BWS

The addition of fruit extracts give this tequila a fresh cucumber character and a hint of spice.

Hijos De Villa Reposado Bullet

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 World@BWS

Made in Jalisco, this rested tequila is presented in a distinctive bullet-shaped bottle.

Tequila – RRP $70-$99.99

Don Ramón Punta Diamante Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $71.99

EuroVintage

This aged expression of Don Ramón is rested in white oak and has bright floral and herbal aromas with subtle vanilla and chocolate. On the palate there are flavours of citrus, cooked agave and herbs.

Don Ramón Punta Diamante Silver

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $71.99

EuroVintage

Aromas of bright florals with notes of herbs and raw agave all emerge on the palate. A pronounced herbaceous flavour with a hint of sweetness that evolves into a warming minerality.

1800 Coconut

35% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Lion

Natural coconut flavour is infused into 1800 Silver to create this expression with its slightlysweet and medium-bodied tropical taste. Ideal for serving on the rocks or in tropical-inspired cocktails – it pairs particularly well with pineapple juice.

1800 Coconut is ideal for serving on the rocks or in tropical-inspired cocktails.

1800 Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Lion

This tequila is matured in American and French oak barrels for a minimum of six months. It has notes of buttery caramel, mild spices  and a touch of smoke from the barrel finishing.

1800 Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99

Lion

A blend of specially selected white tequilas. 1800 Silver is a versatile tequila with a clean, balanced taste and hints of sweet fruit and pepper.

Barullo Spicy Sandía

30% ABV, 750ml RRP $75

Ay Caramba

A bold tequila liqueur made in Mexico that blends the natural sweetness of watermelon with a fiery touch of spice. Serve chilled as a shot, over ice, or mix into cocktails.

TEQUILA AND MEZCAL

Tequila

Takes its name from the city of Tequila in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Legally, tequila can only be produced in this state and in four other regions of Mexico and is recognised as a protected designation of origin product. To be a true tequila, it must be made from the blue agave plant (also known as Weber Blue Agave, after the German botanist who first classified it) and produced in one of those recognised areas.

Production: Agave plants are succulents that grow well in Mexico’s hot, arid conditions and produce thick, spiky leaves. Careful tending by the jimadores (agave harvesters) allows the plants to ripen fully –often taking up to 12 years. When ready to harvest, the jimadores cut away the spiky leaves to reach the core, known as the piña, which resembles a giant pineapple without its top. The piñas are baked over hours or days (depending on the producer) and then mashed under a large stone wheel. The extracted agave juice (wort) is then fermented and distilled twice to produce clear tequila.

Ageing: This initial clear tequila can be bottled as ‘silver’ tequila (also known as ‘plata’ or ‘blanco’), or further aged in barrel to create reposado (for minimum two to eight months), añejo (minimum 12 months) or extra añejo (minimum three years).

Mezcal

Mezcal is an agave-based liquor that can be made from any of up to 30 different varieties of the agave plant. It is made in nine different regions in Mexico. While the harvest of piñas is the same as for tequila, the more artisanal mezcal producers use underground earthen pits in which to slow bake their piñas, which imparts the distinctive smoky flavour of mezcal. These cooked agave may then be milled in several ways: using an electric mill, smashing with a wooden mallet, or using traditional Chilean Tahona horses to pull a heavy stone wheel that separates the agave fibres.

Cazcabel Blanco

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 Federal

A fresh, crisp tequila with a spicy aroma, hint of citrus and plenty of earthy agave. Smooth and well-balanced with more earthy agave and citrus. A crisp finish with touches of black pepper and a light smokiness on the exit.

1800 Añejo

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $82.99 Lion

A minimum of 14 months ageing in French oak barrels gives this tequila flavours of toasted oak, vanilla and butterscotch, with a spicy, well-rounded finish.

Cazcabel Reposado

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99 Federal

This rested expression of Cazcabel matures in American oak barrels for a minimum of nine months. It has aromas of agave with a touch of eucalyptus and hints of white pepper, caramel and toasted oak. The palate balances dry, earthy agave with vanilla and toasted oak. The finish is long and complex with a jalapeño tingle.

Arette Blanco

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $85 Tickety-Boo

Sweet aromas of cooked agave are followed by fresh flavours of citrus, black pepper and an earthy spice.

Tequila Hacienda de Xalpa Silver

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $88 Ay Caramba

A fresh, light tequila with aromas of herbs and pepper. A lush cooked agave flavour; crisp and slightly sweet, with a long finish.

Cazcabel Blanco is a fresh, crisp tequila with a spicy aroma, hint of citrus and plenty of earthy agave.

Avión Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Pernod Ricard

An intense agave aroma with subtle mint and rosemary, delicate floral and black pepper characters and hints of grapefruit and pineapple. Crisp and clean, well balanced and smooth.

Corazón Blanco

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Federal

This unaged tequila has aromas of baked pineapple, roasted jalapeño, and tangerine zest. There’s a mineral tone on the palate and a creamy mouth-filling texture, leading to a spicy finish.

Teremana Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99 Hancocks

This tequila brand from actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has amassed some impressive awards since its launch several years ago. The Blanco expression has notes of bright citrus with a smooth, fresh finish.

Arette Reposado

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $90 Tickety-Boo

Aged for six months in American white oak, this tequila has aromas of citrus, caramel and cooked agave with citrus and vanilla favours, an earthy note and cinnamon sweetness. The finish is rich and spicy.

Batanga Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $90

Hi I.Q. Liquor

A crisp tequila with flavours of pineapple, guava, hints of cinnamon, clove and warming spices.

Batanga Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $91

Hi I.Q. Liquor

Ageing in American oak barrels creates complex flavours of coffee, vanilla, toffee and warming spices.

Tequila Hacienda de Xalpa Reposado

38% ABV, 700ml RRP $94

Ay Caramba

A full-bodied tequila aged from 7-14 months in white oak casks. Aromas of vanilla, honey, soft oak, and butterscotch develop on the palate. Smooth with a lingering finish.

Storywood Speyside 7 Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99

World@BWS

Storywood blends Mexico and Scotland, with the tequila aged in Scottish Speyside whisky barrels. The Speyside 7 Reposado is aged seven months and has a caramel character with hints of oak, vanilla and honey over an earthy agave base.

Calle 23 Blanco

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $95

Mineral

Aromas of cooked agave with hints of citrus and herbs lead to a soft palate full of agave flavour, with notes of Granny Smith apples and pears in the lingering finish.

Don Ramón Platinum Reposado Cristalino

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $96.99

EuroVintage

A soft aroma with clear and delicate notes of wood, vanilla, nuts, cinnamon and spice, which continue on the palate.

Don Ramón Platinum Silver

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $96.99 EuroVintage

Fresh notes of citrus and agave on the nose lead to lengthy flavours of agave.

Corazón Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99

Federal

Aged 6-8 months in American oak, this tequila has aromas of thyme, green grass, and agave nectar. Earthy tones on the palate with soft vanilla, almond and fresh herb flavours. Rounded and refined.

Ollitas Cristalino

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $99.99 Hi I.Q. Liquor

This tequila is made with agave baked in brick ovens and a blend of reposado tequilas aged 12 months in American oak. A unique filtering process creates the completely transparent liquid. Soft on the palate with aromas of cooked agave and notes of vanilla.

Teremana Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $99.99 Hancocks

Aged in American whisky barrels, this rested expression of Teremana tequila has notes of oak and vanilla with a smooth, rich finish.

Tequila – RRP $100$149.99

Calle 23 Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $100

Mineral

This tequila is double-distilled in traditional pot stills and spends eight months in ex-bourbon oak casks. With delicate aromas of wood and cooked agave, it is a well-balanced tequila that is light and smooth in the mouth. Notes of roasted peppers and fresh figs, light wood, a big agave presence and well-balanced spiciness.

Calle 23 Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109

Mineral

A full-bodied tequila that is double-distilled in traditional pot stills and matured for 16 months in ex-bourbon oak casks. Oak aromas marry with a rich touch of vanilla and coffee and notes of herbs and spices. On the palate there is cracked coffee and tobacco balanced with agave and vanilla.

Herradura Plata

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Hancocks

This ‘Plata’ expression from Herradura is aged 45 days and has aromas of green and cooked agave, with herbal and slightly woody notes. Flavours of agave, wood and citrus give way to a smooth, clean and warming finish.

Corazón Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99

Federal

Aged 16-18 months in American oak, this tequila has a fresh, forest-like aroma, with wellintegrated notes of spice. Light in the mouth, it is savoury with flavours of spiced tobacco, charred moss and coffee.

The Añejo expression of actor Dwayne Johnson’s Teremana range has rich, warm oak, vanilla and roasted agave characters with a lightly sweet and complex finish.

Teremana Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $109.99

Hancocks

The Añejo expression of actor Dwayne Johnson’s Teremana range has rich, warm oak, vanilla and roasted agave characters with a lightly sweet and complex finish.

Gran Orendain Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $110

Hi I.Q. Liquor

A 100% agave tequila with triple distillation. It has soft, cooked agave flavour with mint and herbal aromas. Fresh and lively. Awarded Gold at SIP Awards 2025 and Gold at American Spirits Council of Tasters 2025.

Patrón Silver

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $110 Lion

This silver tequila is handmade in small batches. It is soft, smooth and sweet on the palate with fresh agave, hints of citrus and a finish of light pepper.

El Mayor Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $117

Hi I.Q. Liquor

This tequila delivers the pure expression of agave in a crisp, light body with a hint of pepper. Fresh floral aromas with a spicy undertone lead to a palate full of agave flavour with subtle florals and pepper. A wave of heat on the finish, which is clean and dry.

Gran Orendain Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $118

Hi I.Q. Liquor

Aged for 11 months in American oak barrels, this tequila has a smooth taste with delicate agave and wood aromas. Awarded Gold and Tequila of the Year at the London Spirits Competition 2025.

Sangre de Vida Tequila Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $118

Hi I.Q. Liquor

“Sangre de Vida” translates as “Blood of Life”, hence the distinctive heart-shaped bottle. This tequila has lush aromas of white flowers, lemons, spicy agave, ripe bananas, fresh mint and notes of anise and pepper. It is balanced on the palate with fruity, mineral notes and lemon, agave and intense spice.

Don Ramón Platinum Añejo Cristalino

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $119.99

EuroVintage

Aromas of nuts, vanilla and cinnamon continue on the palate, along with a delicate wood character.

Herradura Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99 Hancocks

Eleven months in American white oak intensifies the aromas of cooked agave in this tequila, along with hints of anise, fruit and spice. It is rich with flavours of sweet cooked agave, vanilla, butter and dried fruit. The finish is smooth and sweet with a hint of brown spice.

Pantalones Organic Tequila Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $119.99

Blanc Beverages

Pantalones is a recently arrived brand in New Zealand and is the creation of actor Matthew McConaughey and wife Camila. The Blanco is smooth with sweet notes of cooked agave, honey and a hint of citrus.

Storywood 14 Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99

World@BWS

This tequila spends 14 months in single malt Scotch whisky barrels from Speyside. It has flavours of toasted oak, roasted nuts and treacle toffee.

The Artesanal range from Arette is a more premium expression of their tequilas.

Storywood Cask Strength Speyside 7

Reposado

53% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99 World@BWS

A cask-strength expression of the original Storywood Speyside 7 tequila. Bottled at 53% ABV, it brings added intensity to the notes of caramel, oak, vanilla, and honey over an earthy agave base.

Arette Artesanal Suave Blanco

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

The Artesanal range from Arette is a more premium expression of their tequilas. The Blanco is crystal clear with a zesty, lemony aroma that persists on the palate along with dried herbs, juicy florals and cooked agave. Smooth mouthfeel and fresh finish.

Cenote Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

This golden-hued tequila is aged for three months in American oak, creating aromas of vanilla and wood and leading to a rounded palate of vanilla, wood spice and green vegetable characters.

El Mayor Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $120

Hi I.Q. Liquor

El Mayor Reposado is aged in white oak barrels for nine months (seven months longer than the minimum industry standard). Smooth on the palate with a dryish, medium body and notes of perfumed fruity agave, vanilla, spice and caramel. Awarded Platinum at SIP Awards 2025 and Gold at American Spirits Council of Tasters 2025.

Tequila Ocho Plata

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $120

Mineral

Ocho is the first tequila to designate both the year it was produced and the precise field from which the agave was harvested. Each estate, or “rancho” produces a limited amount of agave, adding to the rarity and collectability of each vintage of Ocho. The Plata is an unaged tequila – intense and lively with clean flavours.

El Mayor Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $125

Hi I.Q. Liquor

Designed for sipping, this tequila is aged in white oak barrels for 18 to 36 months. Aromas of caramel, sweet fruit and light oak lead to a soft, medium-to-full bodied palate with caramel, grilled tropical fruits and brown spices. Awarded Platinum at American Spirits Council of Tasters 2025.

Herradura Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

Hancocks

Ageing for just over two years gives this tequila a rich, dark copper hue. It has intense aromas of cooked agave and spices, which continue on the complex palate along with dried fruit notes and toasted oak. The finish is smooth, sweet and slightly spicy.

Casa Maestri Reserva De MFM

Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $129.99-$139.99

World@BWS

Casa Maestri is the flagship brand of Casa Maestri Distillery, founded and led by Celia Maestri. The Reserva de MFM ceramic bottles are artisanal and were designed by Maestri and a ceramic artist from Guadalajara, Jalisco. The Reposado expression is aged for eight months in ex-whiskey barrels and has a slight herbaceousness with anise, wood spice and some clove. Slight tropical notes and pronounced pepper.

Pantalones Organic Tequila Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $129.99 Blanc Beverages

Aged in American oak barrels for nine months, the Reposado expression from Pantalones has notes of cooked agave, vanilla, and a hint of oak.

Storywood CS Sherry

53% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99

World@BWS

This limited-edition release is aged in Oloroso sherry casks for seven months and bottled at cask strength for added intensity. Bold and fullflavoured with sweet cherry and jammy dark fruits on an earthy agave base.

Arette Artesanal Suave Reposado

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $130

Tickety-Boo

Aged for six months in American white oak, this tequila has aromas of citrus, caramel and cooked agave, with citrus and vanilla flavours, an earthy note and cinnamon sweetness. The finish is rich and spicy, with an oily texture.

Gran Orendain Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $135

Hi I.Q. Liquor

Made from 100% agave with a rich, full flavour and body from ageing in premium bourbon single-use barrels. Smooth but intense flavour with aromas of cooked agave, caramel, chocolate, vanilla and coffee.

Pantalones Organic Tequila Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $139.99 Blanc Beverages

Fifteen months in American oak whisky barrels add notes of vanilla, butterscotch and brown sugar to this tequila, with a velvety finish.

Cenote Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $145

Tickety-Boo

Ageing for a year in American oak gives this tequila its rich amber colour and lush, complex character. The nose is smoked and woody, with vanilla, spice and chocolate on the palate. The bottle is especially striking with its sculpted piña adornment on the cap.

Sangre de Vida Tequila Reposado

55% ABV, 750ml RRP $149 Hi I.Q. Liquor

This intense, higher-proof tequila has a fruity aroma with caramel and soft notes of agave. The palate starts with the fresh sweetness of agave and leads into citrus, spicy pepper and oak.

Casa Maestri Reserva De MFM Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $149.99-$159.99 World@BWS

Fourteen months in ex-whiskey barrels gives this tequila a fruity character with slight anise, cooked agave and a hint of wood. Smooth on the palate with pepper, apple and subtle vanilla.

Patrón Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

Lion

Patron Añejo is aged for over 12 months in a combination of French oak, Hungarian oak and ex-American whiskey barrels. Oak, vanilla and raisins on the nose continue on the palate along with honey and a finish of caramel and smoke.

Storywood Cask Strength Double Oak

7 Añejo

53% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99

World@BWS

This is the top of the Storywood range in the Cask Strength Limited Editions. It is aged 14 months in Speyside ex-whisky barrels and Oloroso sherry casks. Flavours of honey, caramel, dark fruits, cherry, and earthy agave.

Tequila

– RRP $150$199.99

Arette Artesanal Fuerte

50.5% ABV, 750ml RRP $150 Tickety-Boo

A higher strength white tequila with intense agave flavour. The ‘Fuerte’ expression from Arette comes directly from the “alambique de olla” without dilution.

Fortaleza Blanco

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $160 Tickety-Boo

This tequila has rich aromas of citrus and cooked agave with hints of olive, earth and black pepper. On the palate there is more citrus and agave with vanilla, basil, olive and lime.

Casamigos Blanco

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $169.99

Federal

Rested for two months in American oak, the Blanco expression from Casamigos is crisp and clean with hints of citrus, vanilla and sweet agave, and a long smooth finish.

Storywood Cask Strength Double Oak 7 Añejo is aged 14 months in Speyside ex-whisky barrels and Oloroso sherry casks.

Fortaleza Reposado

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $180

Tickety-Boo

Aromas of citrus, caramel, butter, cooked agave, and sage lead to a palate of cooked agave, citrus, vanilla, apple, earth, and cinnamon. The finish is long, rich and delicately spicy, with an oily texture.

Gran Orendain Extra Añejo 3YO

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $182

Hi I.Q. Liquor

This tequila has an intense amber colour and is aged more than three years in white oak barrels from France.

Arette Artesanal Suave Añejo

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $185

Tickety-Boo

An elegant and complex aged tequila that spends at least 18 months in American white oak barrels. Aromas of citrus, dried fruit and a vanilla sweetness continue on the palate. The lingering finish has a hint of black pepper.

Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength

46% ABV, 750ml RRP $190

Tickety-Boo

Direct from the still, this tequila has aromas of fruit, baked ripe agave, green olive, and an earthiness. Slightly brighter and more intense at still strength, the flavours of butter, olive, earth, black pepper, and vegetal qualities are enhanced.

Casamigos Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $184.99

Federal

This is the original Casamigos, aged for seven months. A golden colour, it is soft and slightly oaky with hints of caramel and cocoa. It has a silky texture with a medium to long smooth finish.

Tequila – RRP $200 and above

Casamigos Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $209.99

Federal

Aged for 14 months, this tequila has a complex aroma, with soft caramel and vanilla notes. There is balanced sweetness from the agave, subtle hints of spice and barrel oak, and a lingering smooth finish.

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia

Extra Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $213.99

Lion

One of Jose Cuervo’s most premium offerings, this Extra Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for an average of three years with the final blend including tequila from reserves aged over 30 years. Rich and vibrant, with full flavours of agave, vanilla, and a hint of florals.

Sangre de Vida Tequila Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $215

Hi I.Q. Liquor

Each bottle of the Añejo expression from Sangre de Vida is hand-painted with motifs drawn from Mexico’s history and culture. This aged tequila has aromas and flavours of agave, oak, caramelised honey, sweet potato, vanilla and pear.

Fortaleza Añejo

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $240

Tickety-Boo

This golden-hued tequila is aged for 18 months in American oak. It is rich and complex with flavours of butterscotch, caramel, toffee, citrus and hazelnut.

Herradura Seleccion Suprema

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $705.99

Hancocks

This very special release from Tequila Herradura is the distillery’s most ultra-rested Extra-Añejo tequila, spending 45 months in American white oak barrels for an elegant and incredibly smooth tequila. Described as “the taste of unhurried excellence”, the extra ageing creates a rich, dark amber colour in the tequila with cooked agave, spice and floral notes on the nose and palate. Exceptionally smooth and complex, with a lasting, subtly sweet finish.

Casa Maestri Reserva De MFM Extra Añejo with Sensory Kit

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $1,299.99-$1,349.99

World@BWS

This very special 10th anniversary release from Casa Maestri contains not only the Extra Añejo expression (which is aged for three years in ex-whiskey barrels) but also a “Sensory Kit” for a fuller experience of the tequila and its origins. There are 11 vials with nine sensory ingredients (including cooked agave, crystalised orange, caramelised walnut and American oak) as well as soil from the highlands and lowlands of Jalisco, where Casa Maestri’s agaves are planted, harvested and cooked.

Mezcal RRP $70 - $99.99

Mezcal Monte Alban

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99

Federal

Monte Alban Mezcal is produced with no added neutral spirits and no artificial additives. It’s a solid 100% agave mezcal, with a mezcal worm in each bottle. A brilliant golden amber colour with hints of smoky agave and pineapple, it’s ideal for agave-based cocktails.

NODO Tequilana Blanco

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $85

Mineral

This spirit is produced by the Bañuelos family, who have been distilling since the 1970s. Because it is made five minutes away from the outskirts of Tequila town it falls outside the Denomination of Origin for tequila but is a classic style in every sense except the regulatory name. NODO Blanco has a crisp and vibrant agave character with fresh, earthy flavours. Smooth and approachable.

NODO Tequilana Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $88

Mineral

This expression from NODO is rested for four months in ex-bourbon American oak casks, creating oak character and a golden colour.

Mezcal Umbe Coyote Reposado

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $89

Ay Caramba

This mezcal is made from 100% Espadín agave and aged for six months. It has aromas of whipped cream, vanilla, dried fruit, cinnamon and cloves. On the palate there are hints of vanilla, cinnamon, grapefruit, coffee and spicy wood. The lingering finish has accents of cooked agave.

Del Maguey San Luis Del Rio Crema de Mezcal

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99

Pernod Ricard

A unique combination of roasted agave syrup and mezcal. It has a nose of roast agave, vanilla and pear, and notes of creamy almond, apple, coffee and pineapple on the palate with a long, sweet, smoky orange finish.

Del Maguey San Luis Del Rio VIDA Mezcal

42% ABV, 750ml RRP $89.99

Pernod Ricard

An artisanal organic mezcal, hand crafted and twice distilled slowly in small wood-fired, riverside copper stills. It has aromas of fruit, honey, vanilla and roasted agave, with a palate of ginger, cinnamon, burnt sandalwood, banana and tangerine.

Pachupa Mezcal Abocado con Gusano

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $90

Ay Caramba

This mezcal is infused for at least two months with maguey worms, which impart essential oils to the spirit, giving it a traditional flavour beloved by connoisseurs.

Mezcal Embees Jaguar Joven

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $97

Ay Caramba

A fresh, intense mezcal made from 100% Espadín agave. Mineral and herbal notes on the nose, with cooked agave, wet soil, eucalyptus, and citrus. Pronounced flavours of cooked agave, earth, minerals, and citrus. Well-balanced with a lingering finish.

Amigos Aotearoa

37% ABV, 750ml RRP $99

B&R Beverages

This brand was created especially for the New Zealand market. Its creators worked with a Maestro Mezcalero in Mexico to come up with the flavour profile of Amigos Aotearoa. It has the smoky mezcal aroma and flavour that is the hallmark of mezcal, which deepens on the palate. It’s super smooth with a hint of sweetness. Awarded Gold and Best Tequila or Agave Spirit at the 2025 Australian International Spirits Awards.

Mezcal RRP $100 - $150

Ilegal Joven

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $103

Mineral

An un-aged tequila with full-bodied agave flavour. Eucalyptus and mineral aromas complement hints of green apple, fresh citrus, and red chiltepe peppers. Light smoke and lingering heat.

Derrumbes Durango

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $105

Mineral

Floral and earthy on the nose with a palate that turns to sweet and fruity with mango, strawberry, wildflower honey, cooked agave, and a hint of minerality.

Motel Mezcal

43% ABV, 750ml RRP $105.99

EuroVintage

Produced by a third-generation maestro mezcalero, Motel Mezcal is made from agave grown for a minimum of eight years, cooked on volcanic stones and double-distilled with no additives, abocantes (additives), or sugars. A smooth and refined mezcal – velvety on the palate, balanced with herbaceous notes of ripe banana, pineapple, mild oak, and a subtle smoky finish.

Don Ramón Mezcal

40% ABV, 750ml RRP $109.99

EuroVintage

This mezcal is made from 100% Salmiana agave from Zacatecas, which has been matured for 8-10 years. It has the hallmark earthy smokiness of mezcal and notes of herbs, florals, and fresh citrus layered with a subtle fruity finish.

Pachupa Mezcal Abocado con Agave

38% ABV, 750ml RRP $110

Ay Caramba

Known as “Corazón” (“heart”) this mezcal follows a recipe passed down from the founder’s great-grandmother. Although a young mezcal with no ageing, it is slightly sweet with the body, aroma, and richness of an aged spirit.

Derrumbes Zacatecas

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $112

Mineral

This mezcal has complex aromas of mixed berry jam, pine wood, celery, brine, prosciutto and light smoke. It’s sweet and lightly floral in the mouth with raspberry, papaya, rosewater, sugarcane syrup, and a touch of chalk.

Derrumbes San Luis Potosi

48% ABV, 700ml RRP $117

Mineral

Aromas of fresh pico de gallo, lime, sauerkraut, green chilli, sharp gorgonzola – savoury and funky. A tequila with medium-full body. The palate is, at first, sweeter than the nose, with apple and lychee, but the fruits are quickly joined by salsa verde and blue cheese.

Ilegal Reposado

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $117

Mineral

Aged four months in American oak, Ilegal Reposado has slightly woody, caramel-like aromas with baked agave, cassia bark and chilli. On the palate there is butterscotch and caramel, soft wood smoke, cedar, pipe tobacco, agave and dried herbs. The finish is oaky with cocoa powder and orange rinds.

Paquera Mezcal Espadín

42.5% ABV, 750ml RRP $119 socialsmiths

Traditional methods are at the heart of this mezcal, which is made by fifth-generation mezcalero Juan Hernandez. It uses seven-yearold Espadín agave roasted for six days in an earthen oven and crushed using a horse-drawn tahona (stone mill).

Gracias a Dios Espadín Joven

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

This mezcal is made from 100% Espadín agave, grown for eight years. Flavours of spice and smoke give way to sweet fruits and a hint of citrus. Dry and spicy on the finish.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Mango

43% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

A clean, bright, dry mezcal made with mangoes grown on the Oaxacan coast. It is full of mango character – from the initial aroma through to a palate of tropical sweetness with notes of creamy custard.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Piña

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $120

Tickety-Boo

This special edition tequila is made with a different fruit each year by Gracias a Dios’ mezcal maestro, Oscar Hernandez, who always gives a bottle to his local priest. This release uses pineapple, which adds a tropical sweetness to the traditional smoky character of mezcal.

Gracias a Dios Espadín Reposado

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $125

Tickety-Boo

This 100% Espadín agave mezcal is aged for four months in American oak. It has aromas of spicy oak, wild herbs and citrus pith, while the palate adds spice, smoke and minty, fruity elements. Balanced and fragrant, with earthy notes.

Los Siete Misterios Doba-Yej

44% ABV, 700ml RRP $130

Tickety-Boo

Described as the ‘entry’ to the Los Siete Misterios range, the Doba-Yej is a wellbalanced mezcal: it has all the characteristics of a great mezcal to serve neat, as well as the character and strength to be mixed.

Derrumbes Destilado de Agave Tamaulipas

47% ABV, 750ml RRP $130

Mineral

A blend of three different agaves: Funkiana and Univittata (endemic to the Tamaulipas area), together with Americana. The result is a highenergy spirit that feels sweet, dry and rich with multiple layers of flavour and aroma.

Derrumbes Michoacán

45% ABV, 750ml RRP $133

Mineral

A combination of Michoacán’s iconic Chino and Alto agaves. Chino (Cupreata) brings mature fruit notes while Alto (Ineaquidens) adds a delicate herbaceous character. This mezcal is fermented under the red clay floor of the taberna in pinewood-lined pits to protect it from low temperatures before distillation.

Del Maguey Chichicapa Single Village Mezcal

46% ABV, 700ml RRP $134.99

Described as the ‘entry’ to the Los Siete Misterios range, the Doba-Yej is a well-balanced mezcal.

Pernod Ricard

Complex flavours with abundant citrus and a long smooth finish with overtones of mint.

Mezcal RRP $150$199.99

Gracias a Dios Coyote

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $160

Tickety-Boo

This mezcal is herbal and spiced. It has aromas of herbs and grapefruit peel. Cooked agave adds a caramel quality to the palate, and the finish is smooth, long and smoky.

Gracias a Dios Madre Cuishe

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $160

Tickety-Boo

Earthy and herbal, with lemon, cucumber and peppermint. A smoky character too, with notes of caramelised sugar.

Gracias a Dios Mexicano

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $160

Tickety-Boo

Intense tobacco aroma with dried herbs and spices, meatiness, and a hint of citrus. Minerality on the finish.

Gracias a Dios Tepextate

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $160

Tickety-Boo

Smoke, minerality, grapefruit and lime peels, dried fruit and an earthiness combine in this mezcal.

Ilegal Añejo

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $170

Mineral

A rich and rounded mezcal that is aged for 13 months in new American oak barrels. It has aromas of maple, clove, and bitter orange with dark chocolate and sweet agave on the palate.

Mezcal RRP $200 and above

Casamigos Mezcal

40% ABV, 700ml RRP $209.99

Federal

This mezcal from popular tequila brand Casamigos is made using the traditional method of baking the harvested piñas in earthen pits and then crushing them with a horse-drawn tahona wheel. It has aromas of fragrant herbs and fruit with a hint of smoke, leading to a palate of smoke and black pepper with a long, silky finish.

Los Siete Misterios Ensamble Espadín/ Cuishe

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $210

Tickety-Boo

The Espadín/ Cuishe is a blend of Espadín and the Cuishe agave, also known as Barril. Notes of herbs and citrus that lead to tobacco, pepper, and olive.

Los Siete Misterios Ensamble Espadín/ Mexicanito

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $210

Tickety-Boo

The Espadín/ Mexicanito is a blend of Espadín and Mexicano, one of the largest agaves. Notes of freshly cut herbs and bright citrus balanced with smoky chillies and roasted vegetables.

Los Siete Misterios Espadín Clay Pot

50% ABV, 700ml RRP $240

Tickety-Boo

The first Siete Misterios Mezcal. Displays rich minerality with notes of avocado leaf, fresh herbs, flowers, and citrus.

Casamigos Mezcal has aromas of fragrant herbs and fruit with a hint of smoke, leading to a palate of smoke and black pepper with a long, silky finish.

Los Siete Misterios Ensamble Espadín/Tobala

45% ABV, 700ml RRP $255

Tickety-Boo

The Espadín/ Tobalá is a blend of Espadín and Tobalá, an agave renowned for its complexity and balance. Notes of citrus, herbs, and chamomile.

Los Siete Misterios Clay Pot Coyote

47% ABV, 700ml RRP $340

Tickety-Boo

Coyote is a rare agave that is easily mistaken for the Arroqueño. This expression combines notes of dry, scented herbs such as holy leaf, epazote, and pine needles with the bright citrus aromas of lime and grapefruit peel.

Los Siete Misterios Clay Pot Tobala

46.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $510

Tickety-Boo

Considered to be the crown jewel of agave varietals, Tobalá is renowned for its complexity and balance. This expression features notes of tropical fruits, herbs, and piloncillo (Mexican cane sugar).

Step into the Motel Mezcal incentive programme.

Your gateway to top-tier pricing, including a special  6-bottle deal, and a chance to  win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Oaxaca, Mexico,  where our story begins.

Designed for venues and staff who champion Motel Mezcal, this programme offers exclusive rewards and experiences that celebrate the artistry, heritage, and spirit of mezcal.

Inquire with your EuroVintage representative today to join and begin the journey with Motel Mezcal.

Ben

Leggett, Elemental

Distillers

Ben Leggett and Simon Kelly founded Elemental Distillers in Marlborough, where they distil and bottle award-winning Roots Gin in their own sustainably built container distillery.

Visit rootsdrygin.com

Industry Expert: Ben Leggett on low alc spirits

THE NEW Zealand spirits industry has seen many trends over the years. The boom of craft distilleries across the country reflected the appetite for premium, locally-crafted products, driven by storytelling and a connection to the local land and people.

Now, a new trend is emerging: globally, people are drinking less, but the number of people flocking to no- and low-alcoholic options is increasing. In New Zealand specifically, research earlier this year from NielsenIQ data showed that 38% of Kiwis were drinking less alcohol than they were a year ago.

But just because they’re drinking less, doesn’t mean their tastes are less discerning. Now more than ever, quality matters over quantity. Innovation is the only way to keep up with new-age drinking habits – to develop something that fits both lifestyle and palate.

There has been a surge of 0% products on the market, but a low percent ABV spirit is less common. In late 2024, the Elemental Distillers team took on the challenge of creating a low % spirit with the same flavour profile as a London Dry Gin – something our Roots Gin has been recognised on the global stage for.

We knew we needed to create a new process to achieve a flavour profile that would stand on its own. As 86% of our product is water, it’s not enough to just create a concentrated spirit and then dilute it; we needed to capture flavour in the water content too.

To achieve what we believe is a pretty special product in Roots Light Marlborough Spirit, we invested in pioneering technology with the backing of Callaghan Innovation. It’s created through a unique double vacuum distilled technology,

Innovation is the only way to keep up with new-age drinking habits.

concentrating essential flavours into both alcohol and water molecules without destroying them through the traditional process.

By combining multiple different technologies, we can both deconstruct and reconcentrate core botanical flavours that would traditionally require a high alcohol content in order to retain their character. This technology allows for distilling at lower temperatures than normal, as the pressure change influences boiling points.

This ‘cold distillation’ captures more complex flavour chemicals which would otherwise change or be destroyed through hot distillation. It also means we don’t need to make cuts during our run; the stillage left behind after a vacuum run can contain some of the best flavour components.

That’s the science, but there is also an art to the process – once we had a spirit

balance we were happy with, we spent one third of our R&D process on what we considered ‘polishing’. A low alcohol spirit has so much water that it can feel flat and washed out. We added a subtle but natural rebalance of acid, salinity and sweetness to rebuild the right mouthfeel. All up, the process allowed us to maintain the unique profile of a classic full-strength gin, but in a spirit that sits at 14%.

Consumers shouldn’t have to compromise on flavour, experience or enjoyment just to drink a low alcohol product. As producers, it’s up to us to pave the way into the low alcohol realm, and stop treating it as an afterthought.

It’s also an economical option for consumers and distillers alike with a retail price of $55 on shelf, thanks to the significantly lower excise tax. But that’s a discussion for another day.

Sarah Miller Freelance spirits writer, judge & consultant ginadingding.com

The advent of brand connection

’Tis the season for alcohol-filled advent calendars and other festive grown-up treats. It’s also a chance for brands to connect more deeply with consumers, says Sarah Miller...

I’M OLD enough to remember when advent calendars promised nothing more than a snowy scene behind each door, and the best you could hope to find in a cracker was a fortune-telling fish. And if chocolate baubles did exist back then, I certainly wasn’t allowed them!

Nowadays, chocolate is barely enough to placate preschoolers (or their parents), with calendars and crackers offering everything from popcorn and pork scratchings to lip balm and Lego. And, whether motivated by a sense of nostalgia or envy, there’s no shortage of boozy options to entertain us adults too.

Back in 2016, it was Edinburgh’s Pickering’s Gin who first filled Christmas baubles with booze and people could not get enough of them: the second, and final, batch sold out in just 82 seconds! Today boozy baubles are still popular –from fill-your-own to light-up gin liqueur versions – but the ubiquitous seasonal spin-off is the alcohol advent calendar. There are plenty for every palate – with beer, cocktails, wines and spirits – and every pocket, with prices ranging from £50 for 12 days of gin to £9,995 for 24 days of ‘Very Old and Rare Whisky’. However, not all advent calendars are created equal.

I believe MOTH and Whitebox are among the best RTD cocktails in the UK, but neither of their calendars offer anything you can’t find on supermarket shelves the rest of the year. NIO, on the other hand, creates cocktails specifically for the festive season meaning their

(admittedly pricier) calendar includes a limited edition Christmas Margarita with notes of spiced ginger and apple, and a mandarin and cinnamon Winter Sidecar.

While many branded calendars offer less variety and more duplication, O’Donnell Moonshine bucks the trend with two calendars that each contain something extra: the cheaper option includes one new flavour among its 24 x 20ml samples, while the more expensive calendar contains one 700ml limited edition Christmas liqueur as well as 50ml samples and exclusive merchandise.

The ubiquitous seasonal spin-off is the alcohol advent calendar.

Unless you’re a mega fan, the calendars containing a variety of brands usually offer better value, especially for anyone wanting to explore a category. The Spirit Co. sells a large selection, including bourbon, cognac, tequila and mezcal, many of which also include two glasses and expert tasting notes to elevate the experience. However the best (in my opinion) was the Ginvent calendar, which also happened to be the very first alcohol advent calendar launched.

“Ginvent” began its life in London’s Graphic Bar in 2011, where the (now sadly

defunct) Gin Foundry team installed a 2m x 2m calendar containing 24 fullsize bottles of gin that were opened for sampling and serving each day. The following year this concept was miniaturised in collaboration with Drinks by the Dram. Today’s calendars are often bandwagon-jumping attempts to cash in while offloading excess stock, but Ginvent was about demonstrating the category’s depth and diversity as well as helping drinkers find their perfect tipple. Their calendars were carefully curated to include every style of gin as well as new and limited editions.

Ginvent was also designed to be a shared experience. In addition to publishing articles, tasting notes and suggested serves, Gin Foundry hosted wonderful live tastings on social media every evening. These online experiences not only connected brands with potential customers, but also built communities and saw many of us making mini Martinis and Negronis with our 30ml samples, long before tiny cocktails were trending!

While Gin Foundry’s approach was undoubtedly expensive and timeconsuming, today’s cheaper but less ambitious calendars offer consumers considerably less value. If brands and retailers were instead willing to use calendars as part of bigger campaigns, by investing in events and finding ways to continue the conversation into the New Year, they might just be rewarded with a new generation of loyal customers and even category ambassadors.

Lovers Light –Sandymount’s new light spirit

SANDYMOUNT DISTILLERY has released ‘Lovers Light’ – a new mid-strength spirit based on the Dunedin distillery’s awardwinning ‘Lovers Leap Dry Gin’.

Lovers Light is 24% ABV and infused with cucumber for a full gin flavour profile with less alcohol impact.

“This was a tricky one to make,” says Sandymount owner and distiller Richard Wilson, “but after a long time of testing and adjusting, we are so proud to release something that our customers have been really asking for.”

First released in late August, Lovers Light is described as “crisp, clean and beautifully balanced” and is modelled after Sandymount’s Lovers Leap Dry Gin which was awarded ‘Best in Category’ at the 2024 NZ Spirits Awards. Lovers Light (700ml) is RRP $49.

SHOWCASE

Sandymount Distillery has also announced that after becoming the first (and still the only) distillery in Aotearoa to become certified Carbon Zero via EKOS certification in 2023, it is now officially

Carbon Positive, meaning it actively removes more carbon than it creates.

This includes initiatives like running stills off an array of 20 solar panels on the distillery roof, a closed-circuit cooling system, post-consumer waste labels, and a bottle reuse system.

Wag & Co.

Pōkeno Alchemy – a magical new release

THE PŌ KENO Whisky Company is very proud to add a new edition to its core range of award-winning single malt whiskies. Pōkeno Alchemy is the first addition to the core range since the brand was launched back in 2022, and the team has been waiting patiently for this whisky to be ready to showcase to the world.

As New Zealand’s largest single malt distillery, the vision at Pōkeno is to craft innovative and creative single malts using only the finest local ingredients that reflect the culture and climate of Aotearoa New Zealand. Pōkeno Alchemy is the ultimate expression of this.

The definition of ‘alchemy’ is the seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination. For this new release, the team at Pōkeno have combined some of the distillery’s oldest single malts, which have been fully matured in six different cask types: Pedro Ximénez hogsheads, 30-year-old Pedro Ximénez butts, light- and medium-

char virgin American oak casks, and Ruby and Tawny port casks.

The result – Pōkeno Alchemy – is a magical malt to delight the senses; incredibly rich, smooth and complex.

The bottle label and presentation box feature artwork created by Dunedin-based street artist Koryu, who has also painted the Pōkeno Alchemy image on one of the internal walls of the distillery.

Pōkeno Alchemy launched in New Zealand on November 1 and is available through on-trade partner Dhall and Nash. Pōkeno Alchemy will also be available through exclusive retail partner Liquorland, as well as at the Pōkeno Distillery Visitor Centre and from its online shop. It is also available at the Pōkeno Distillery Duty Free store at Auckland Airport, and will gradually roll out to international distributors in 2026.

Pōkeno Whisky is available to on-premise through Dhall & Nash.

Mix it with Mr Consistent

AS HOSPO venues gear up for warmer months, quick, precise cocktails are made easy with the Mr Consistent mixer range. The Australian brand offers a range of 11 premium non-alcoholic cocktail mixers in the New Zealand market, such as Chilli Margarita, Espresso Martini, Strawberry & Lime Daiquiri, with Piña Colada the most recent addition.

Mr Consistent cocktail mixers are used in hundreds of venues globally, offering a consistent, high-quality solution for bars, restaurants, and events.

Mr Consistent

Maison Ferrand partners with Tickety-Boo

MAISON FERRAND, one of France’s most respected artisanal independent spirits producers, has partnered with Tickety-Boo Liquor as the exclusive distributor of its portfolio in New Zealand.

Under the new partnership, which took effect on November 1, Tickety-Boo Liquor will represent Planteray Rum, Citadelle Gin, Ferrand Cognac, and Dry Curaçao.

Each embodies the vision of Alexandre Gabriel, Maison Ferrand’s Master Blender and owner, whose lifelong mission is to create spirits of exceptional character and authenticity.

“We have found in Tickety-Boo Liquor the perfect partner to continue the Maison Ferrand story in New Zealand,” says Maylis Berger, APAC Area Manager at Maison Ferrand. “Their passion, energy, and dedication to great spirits make them the ideal ally to carry on our brands’ legacy – and to share it with even more enthusiasts.”

Part of the new partnership will see the brand transition of Plantation Rum to Planteray Rum in New Zealand as of November. This follows the global renaming and transition in many other markets. This transition includes the very successful launch of the Eco Pouch, which Tickety-Boo says will offer greater convenience for on-trade while still using a bulk format.

The innovative 2.8L Eco Pouch format is equivalent to four bottles and designed to reduce waste, save space, and offer a cost-effective solution for bars. Available to order now, the Eco Pouch is available for key products including:

• Planteray 3 Stars White Rum

• Planteray Original Dark Rum

• Planteray Stiggins’ Fancy Pineapple Rum

• Citadelle Original Gin

• Ferrand Dry Curaçao

Tickety-Boo

Teremana – Spirit of the earth

TEREMANA TEQUILA is crafted in the small Mexican town of Jesús María, amidst the highest peaks of the Jalisco Highlands. Founder Dwayne Johnson worked with a Mexican familyowned distillery to build a unique home on the grounds solely for Teremana: Destilería Teremana de Agave. Here, they craft Teremana with a love for great tequila made the right way, in small batches, by hand.

Teremana – spirit of the earth

Teremana tequila is made from only fully mature 100% Blue Weber Agave grown in the highlands of Jalisco, as the iron-rich volcanic soil found there is ideal for growing agave with higher natural sugar content. Once fully mature, the agave plants are harvested by skilled jimadores, who have honed their craft over generations.

Teremana means “spirit of the earth” and every step of the tequila-making process is meticulously done to create delicious tequila that truly honours the land from which it comes – from the agave harvesting to 100% brick oven roasting and copper pot distillation. Using local businesses and practices allows the team at Teremana to create their sustainable ultra-premium tequila.

The Teremana tequila range

• Teremana Blanco

Notes of bright citrus with a smooth, fresh finish.

• Teremana Reposado

Notes of oak and vanilla with a smooth, rich finish. Aged in American whiskey barrels.

• Teremana Añejo

Notes of rich warm oak, vanilla and roasted agave with a lightly sweet and complex finish. Aged in American whiskey barrels.

Teremana Tequila is available to order from your Hancocks representative or phone 0800 699 463.

Nemiroff De Luxe now at Hancocks

PREMIUM VODKA Nemiroff De Luxe is now available in New Zealand through distributor Hancocks. Inspired by a centuries-old vodkamaking tradition in Ukraine, this is a smooth, complex vodka that is full of character.

Only the best

The production of Nemiroff De Luxe vodka begins with the careful selection of grain to produce a spirit of the “Luxe” class. An important aspect of production is the use of pure natural water from the brand’s own

artesian wells, which provides the vodka with a special purity and mildness of taste.

The water-alcohol mixture goes through a complex filtration process that includes 11 stages – the last two through silver and platinum – to achieve a perfectly smooth texture.

Nemiroff De Luxe also features Ukrainian honey from select local apiaries and linden flower aromatic alcohol.

Nemiroff De Luxe is smooth and full-bodied, with just the right hint of spice and citrus notes.

The Nemiroff De Luxe experience Nemiroff De Luxe vodka has clean, crisp aromatics that tease the nose with hints of apple, lemon peel and mint. On the palate, it is smooth and full-bodied, with just the right hint of spice and citrus notes, a touch of apple and a long, dry finish with lemon zest and peppermint notes.

The experience of Nemiroff De Luxe is also elevated by the bottle’s premium design, which has been specially developed for the convenience of bartenders. Its shape provides comfortable pouring and its elegant look is a stylish addition to any bar or high-end event.

Nemiroff De Luxe is available to order from your Hancocks representative or phone 0800 699 463.

LOVERS LIGHT with

Disaronno marks 500 years with commemorative bottles

ITALIAN LIQUEUR Disaronno is celebrating 500 years in 2025 and has released a limited-edition bottle collection to mark the event. Five bottles have been designed for the five centuries of history and will be available in New Zealand through distributor Campari NZ from late November. The five designs are inspired by Italian artistry and sophistication, and created to capture the spirit of Disaronno’s enduring legacy.

Campari NZ

New look for The Macallan’s Timeless Collections

RENOWNED WORLDWIDE for its extraordinary single malt Scotch whiskies, The Macallan has reimagined its Double Cask, Sherry Oak and Colour Collections with a striking new visual identity, created by acclaimed designer David Carson.

Delicately blending the rich heritage and artistry of The Macallan with a forward-thinking outlook, the new designs offer a refreshed, modern perspective and vision for the future that celebrates the brand’s peerless craftsmanship and creative mastery.

A longstanding collaborator with The Macallan, acclaimed contemporary graphic designer David Carson drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including how sherry wine and oak intersect to influence The Macallan’s distinctive taste, to create the evocative new vision for the Timeless Collections:

• The distinctive shape of The Macallan Distillery and its sweeping green roof informed the new bottle design, showcasing a direct connection between the brand packaging and The Macallan Estate

• The triangular shoulder label links the new Collections with the old and represents Spain’s Sherry Triangle – the Andalusian region famed for its sherry wine production, and the

source of The Macallan’s exceptional sherry seasoned oak casks, which influence the entirely natural colour and flavour of all three Collections

• Rear label designs incorporate a new cask type symbol, to highlight the contribution of flavour and aroma imbued from American and European oak casks

• Enhanced consumer engagement through continued investment in world-leading anticounterfeit technology to provide greater traceability, while also providing further insight into the expression through a unique QR code.

Jaume Ferras, Creative Director at The Macallan, said: “The Macallan has never stood still and never will. This distinctive new identity offers a multitude of visual cues to tell our story, from the sherry seasoning to the American and European oak casks which contribute to the complex taste and flavour profiles in every bottle of The Macallan.”

Availability of the expressions from across The Macallan’s reimagined Timeless Collections will be phased across 2025.

To stock The Macallan contact your Hancocks Wine & Spirits representative or phone 0800 699 463.

10 years for Reid + Reid with Distillers Garden Gin

MARTINBOROUGH DISTILLERY

Reid + Reid is marking 10 years with the release of a new gin with fresh garden character at its heart. Brothers Chris and Stew Reid founded the distillery back in 2015 and the limited edition gin represents the culmination of a decade of experience, combining traditional distilling methods with their love of farming. The 10-year edition of their Distillers Garden Gin is fresh and elegant and uses eight botanicals grown in their Martinborough gardens.

Reid + Reid Distillers Garden Gin (42% ABV) 700ml RRP $75.

Hancocks

Heaven Hill now at Hancocks

THE PORTFOLIO of award-winning bourbon and American whiskeys from Heaven Hill Distillery is now available for the first time in New Zealand through distributor Hancocks.

One of America’s foremost whiskey producers, its awardwinning collection includes Evan Williams Bourbon, Elijah Craig, Mellow Corn Whiskey, Bernheim Original, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky and Larceny, along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection.

Family-owned for more than 85 years, Heaven Hill is America’s largest independent, family-owned distilled spirits producer, and the second-largest holder of ageing bourbon inventory globally, with over two million barrels.

Hancocks

Roots ‘Light’ Marlborough Spirit launches

MARLBOROUGH’S

ELEMENTAL Distillers have launched a new spirit that is lower in alcohol but built to deliver the same flavour profile as a full-strength London Dry gin.

Roots ’Light’ Marlborough Spirit is 14% ABV and Elemental co-founder Ben Leggett says they invested in pioneering technology with the backing of Callaghan Innovation to create the spirit.

He says the process combines multiple technologies, including two forms of vacuum distillation, to both deconstruct and reconcentrate core botanical flavours that would traditionally require a high alcohol content to retain their character, allowing them to maintain the unique profile of a classic full-strength gin without the high alcohol.

Kiwis go gold at Australian Gin Awards

THREE NEW Zealand gins celebrated Gold at the recent 2025 Australian Gin Awards. Wellington’s Karori Drinks Company won Gold in the Contemporary Gin category for its Chemistry Gin, Bluff Distillery won Gold in the Classic Gin category for its Bluff London Dry Gin, and Rakiura Distilling Company won Gold in the Overproof category for its Third Island Gin – Navy Strength.

Of the 230 medals awarded across the competition only 36 were Gold. New Zealand gins were also strongly represented across Silver and Bronze.

“While many people enjoy finding new gin brands with unique ingredients, we notice it’s the classic gin expressions that drive repeat sales,” says Leggett. “As such, it was important to us to create something that retained as much of the flavour benefits of a classic full-strength gin so that it was a genuine alternative, rather than a different drink entirely.”

Roots ‘Light’ Marlborough Spirit is RRP $55.

Elemental Distillers

SHOWCASE

In addition to their Gold medal success, Chemistry Gin and Bluff London Dry Gin also received Honourable Mentions in the Australian Gin Packaging Awards.

Full results at australianginawards.com.au

Motel Mezcal – from Oaxaca to Aotearoa

MOTEL MEZCAL, an artesanal mezcal brand born in Oaxaca, Mexico, has officially launched in New Zealand through an exclusive partnership with EuroVintage.

The brand introduces Kiwi drinkers to a spirit that bridges ancient tradition with contemporary culture, crafted under the watchful eye of Maestro Mezcalero Daniel López.

A third-generation mezcalero from Oaxaca, Lopez’s family has preserved artesanal methods for generations – cultivating agave, roasting underground on volcanic stones, crushing with a horse-drawn tahona, fermenting in open-air wooden vats, and distilling in copper pots – all natural without any additives.

The result is Motel Mezcal: a mezcal that is smooth and complex with a creamy mouthfeel and layers of herbaceous agave, ripe banana, pineapple, mild oak, and subtle smoke.

“This mezcal carries the soul of my family,” López explains. “It’s more than a drink – it’s a piece of Oaxaca’s culture, preserved through generations and now shared with New Zealand.”

Motel Mezcal’s co-founder and CEO, New Zealand entrepreneur Henry Gordon, aims to bring López’s artistry

to a global audience while ensuring the brand reflects values of sustainability (bottles are made from 100% recycled glass and packaging from recycled materials), creativity, and authenticity.

“Working alongside Daniel and his family has been an honour,” says Gordon. “Motel Mezcal is about preserving

tradition while making it relevant for today. New Zealanders are adventurous drinkers, and we believe they’ll connect deeply with both the flavour and the story behind Motel Mezcal.”

Motel Mezcal is distributed by EuroVintage. motelmezcal.com

8-Wired 022 106 1709 8wired.co.nz

Altitude Brewing beerplease@altitudebrewing.co.nz altitudebrewing.co.nz

Asahi Beverages NZ 09 298 3000 asahibeverages.co.nz

Ay Caramba 09 973 5823 aycaramba.co.nz

B&R Beverages info@amigosaotearoa.co.nz amigosaotearoa.co.nz

Bach Brewing 09 390 0149 bachbrewing.co.nz

Balvonie hello@balvonie.nz balvonie.nz

Behemoth Brewing 09 948 0425 behemothbrewing.co.nz

Beverage Brothers 03 390 1377 beveragebrothers.co.nz

Blanc Beverages angie@blancnz.co.nz blancnz.co.nz

Borthwick Estate 06 372 7720 borthwick.co.nz

Brandhouse 0508 468 688 brandhouse.co.nz

Campari NZ 0800 844 778 camparigroup.com

Cassels sales@casselsbrewery.co.nz casselsbrewery.co.nz

Coal Pit Wine 0800 0200 44 coalpitwine.com

Dancing Water Winery 0274 806 078 dww.co.nz

DB Breweries 0800 746 432 db.co.nz

Distributors

Dhall & Nash 0800 369 463 dnfinewine.com

Dublin Street contact@dublinstreet.co.nz dublinstreet.co.nz

Duncan’s Brewing Co. accounts@duncansbrewing.c.nz duncansbrewing.co.nz

Dunnolly 021 579 428 dunnolly.co.nz

Elemental Cider 027 248 7786 elementalcider.co.nz

Elemental Distillers 021 654 671 rootsdrygin.com

Emerson’s 03 477 1812 emersons.co.nz

EuroVintage 0800 388 766 eurovintage.co.nz

Federal 0800 846 824 federalmerchants.co.nz

Fistonich Family Vineyards sales@fistonichfamilyvineyards.com  cuvarwinery.com

Foley Wines 03 572 8200 sales@foleywines.co.nz

Good George 07 846 9364 goodgeorge.co.nz

Hancocks 0800 699 463 hancocks.co.nz

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

KPL Distribution 0800 7664 5494 kpldistribution.co.nz

Lion 0800 107 272 lionco.com

Maison Vauron 09 529 0157 mvauron.co.nz

Marisco 09 522 9684 marisco.co.nz

Matahiwi Estate 06 370 1000 matahiwi.co.nz

McLeod’s Brewery 021 382 342 mcleodsbrewery.co.nz

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

Mission Estate 06 845 9350 missionestate.co.nz

Misty Cove 03 579 4368 mistycovewines.com

Mr Consistent 021 796 155 mrconsistent.co.nz

Negociants 0800 634 624 negociantsnz.com

No.1 Family Estate 03 572 9876 no1familyestate.co.nz

Parrotdog 04 384 8077 parrotdog.co.nz

Peckham’s Cider lois@peckhams.co.nz peckhams.co.nz

Pernod Ricard 0800 655 550 pernod-ricard-nz.com

Procure 021 393 652 procureliquor.co.nz

Q Liquid 09 636 7730 qll.co.nz

Rabbit Ranch 03 442 6110 rabbitranch.co.nz

Ripple Effect jeremy@rippleeffectwines.co.nz rippleeffectwines.co.nz

Sawmill Brewery 09 422 6555 sawmillbrewery.co.nz

Seifried 03 544 5599 seifried.co.nz

Siren Wine sirenwine.co.nz

Soho 09 360 5443 sohowineco.com

socialsmiths 09 964 0542 socialsmiths.co.nz

Sprig + Fern 03 544 8675 sprigandfern.co.nz

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

Suntory Global 0800 69 23 37 suntoryglobalspirits.com

Takapoto Estate info@takapoto.co.nz takapoto.co.nz

Taylor Brown 09 447 3801 taylorbrown.co.nz

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

Villa Maria 0800 505 656 villamaria.co.nz

Vintners 0800 687 9463 vintners.co.nz

Wag & Co 021 516 540 wagandco.nz

Whitehaven 021 738 315 whitehaven.co.nz

Wine2Trade 021 1800 253 sue@wine2trade.co.nz

Wine Diamonds 0800 177 282 winediamondstrade.co.nz

World@BWS sales@worldbws.co.nz worldbws.co.nz

Yealands 03 575 7618 yealands.co.nz

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