NEXT STEPS

Cardrona Distillery, one of the country’s foremost premium spirits producers, has been purchased by International Beverage, a leading global drinks business. The acquisition includes the Cardrona Distillery and visitor centre near Wānaka in New Zealand’s Crown Range plus Cardrona’s portfolio of brands including Cardrona single malt whisky, The Reid Vodka, The Source Gin and the Rose Rabbit liqueurs. Desiree Reid, who founded Cardrona Distillery in 2015, will remain as Managing Director. Desiree says, “This is an exciting day for all of us at Cardrona Distillery. Building Cardrona has been a remarkable journey, made possible through the work and support of many, many people. I’m thrilled that International Beverage shares our belief in Cardrona’s quality and potential as we embark upon the next chapter of our story together.”

Andrea Marseglia from Teresa Cocktail Bar in Hawke’s Bay has taken out the title of ANZ’S Most Sustainable Bartender in Flor de Caña’s Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, with a cocktail made from donated surplus food and foraged ingredients.

It’s 50 years since the first commercial wine grapes were planted in Marlborough. Local journalist and wine writer Tessa Anderson has written of the pioneers who planted the first vines. Look out for her book 50 Years, 50 Stories. ratapublications.com

Only two distilleries make absinthe in New Zealand, so well done to Dunedin’s No8 Distillery whose No8 Absinthe was awarded a gold medal and named Absinthe of the Year at the USA Spirits Awards 2023. no8distillery.com

Congratulations to 8 Wired Brewing, the Warkworth brewery which took out both of the top categories at the New Zealand Beer Awards 2023. 8wired.co.nz

Tai Nelson from Soljans Estate in Kumeu, Auckland has won the prestigious

title of New Zealand Young Viticulturist of the

Year 2023. Nick Putt from Craggy Range in Hawke’s Bay came second and Nina Downer from Felton Road was placed third.