New Zealand distillery Scapegrace has announced its first core expression whiskies, which launched on World Whisky Day (18 May). The brand has previously exclusively released limited-edition whiskies.

 

The two new products, Anthem and Vanguard, “showcase the best of New Zealand”, according to the distiller. They have been made using New Zealand glacial waters and locally grown barley. 

 

In the place of peat, Scapegrace uses Manuka plants native to New Zealand to smoke its malts. 

 

Scapegrace co-founder Danial McLaughlin commented: “The smokiness we get from Manuka is complex and dry, with eucalyptus, menthol and forest floor style notes. These intricacies help to bring a lighter and more versatile smoke to our whisky that also lets the cereal from our new make shine in a balanced profile.”

 

Anthem and Vanguard will be available in 20 markets worldwide. In the UK, Scapegrace recently announced a distribution agreement with Waitrose which has seen the supermarket stock its spirits.

 

McLaughlin added: “Globally there’s a huge demand for new world whisky (whisky made outside of Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Canada, and the US) so it’s an exciting time to be launching our core release and carving out the New Zealand chapter.

 

“This is a key step for us as we grow our whisky reputation internationally and we’re really pleased to be launching these products in 20 markets around the world.”