The Taniwha: A Toast to New Zealand’s Craft Cocktail Scene
In a testament to the rich tapestry of flavours that New Zealand has to offer, the Taniwha cocktail has been crowned the winner of Scapegrace Distilling Co.’s national competition aiming to find the most uniquely New Zealand cocktail. This exciting feat was achieved by Cal Ross, a talented bartender from Auckland, whose innovative drink highlights the nation’s vibrant terroir and exceptional local ingredients.
The award-winning Taniwha cocktail showcases the best of New Zealand’s local ingredients.
The Journey to the Taniwha
The Scapegrace: Uncharted Spirits cocktail competition invited bartenders from all corners of New Zealand to create a drink that reflected the essence of the country’s diverse regions. With over 60 entries submitted, the challenge was fierce, showcasing an array of unique flavours and presentations. The regional finalists were ultimately flown to Central Otago, known for its breathtaking landscapes and agricultural bounty, to compete in the grand finale.
At the heart of the Taniwha is Scapegrace Black, an exquisite spirit whose depth enriches the drink, paired with a local Syrah and the distinctive Bushfire Shrub. This cocktail is a dance of sophisticated contrasts, celebrating the best that New Zealand’s liquors have to offer.
“The Taniwha stood out to a great degree in a field of already exceptional finalists,” said Mikey Ball, Scapegrace’s Product Development & Advocacy Manager. “It showcases a wonderful balance of conventional and local ingredients that paints the perfect picture of Fiordland in liquid form.”
A Celebration of Local Ingredients
Scapegrace Distilling Co. has long been dedicated to crafting spirits that not only tantalize the palette but also tell a story of their origin. The concept behind the Uncharted Spirits competition was to inspire creativity among bartenders, challenging them to dive deep into the local culture and natural resources of specific regions throughout New Zealand. This initiative not only benefits the bartenders but also resonates with the consumers who seek authentic experiences in their beverages.
“The aim is to reflect the extraordinary diversity of New Zealand’s regions,” Ball elaborated. “This competition encourages bartenders to delve into unfamiliar territory and introduces them to new flavour profiles.”
As Scapegrace expands its presence, including the construction of New Zealand’s largest distillery in Central Otago, the commitment to celebrating local tastes remains paramount. This year’s competition helped cement that cultural ethos as bartenders channeled the spirit of discovery in their creations.
*The new distillery in Central Otago symbolizes Scapegrace’s dedication to local craftsmanship.
The Winner’s Experience
Winning the Uncharted Spirits competition didn’t just earn Cal Ross accolades; it also opened doors to further opportunities within the whisky and spirits community. “What a ride,” Ross reflected on his experience. “I am chuffed to not only win but to tick off a few things on my bucket list along the way. The highlight was definitely meeting some amazing people and fellow competitors.” His reward includes a cash prize and the chance to return to Central Otago in 2025 as a judge for the next competition, further deepening his engagement with the spirits landscape.
This remarkable journey exemplifies how bartenders can leverage their creativity while proudly showcasing New Zealand’s natural resources in their drinks. The Taniwha, now recognized as the pinnacle of local cocktail innovation, serves as an inspiring model for future competitors seeking to make their mark in the industry.
About Scapegrace Distilling Co.
Established in 2014, Scapegrace Distilling Co. has earned its reputation as New Zealand’s largest independent spirits company, known for its high-quality products that encapsulate the adventurous Kiwi spirit. The brand is now found in over 40 markets worldwide, proudly representing New Zealand’s craftsmanship in spirits.
Among their accolades, Scapegrace Gin was awarded the title of World’s Best London Dry Gin at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in 2018. Their Single Malt Fortitude V Whisky also achieved a Master Medal at the World Whisky Masters in 2023, showcasing the brand’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the whisky industry.
Visit Scapegrace to explore their offerings and discover the essence of New Zealand in every sip.
