Whisky fans around the country are preparing to raise a glass, with Scapegrace Distilling set to launch its award winning core expression whisky in New Zealand.

The brand has appropriately chosen World Whisky Day (Saturday, May 17th) to release its single malt whiskies ANTHEM and VANGUARD nationwide. The whiskies have already debuted internationally to critical acclaim, with the 46% ABV edition of Vanguard winning gold at the 2025 World Whisky Awards, and the 46% ABV edition of Anthem earning gold at the 2024 World Whisky Masters.

Scapegrace Co-Founder Daniel McLaughlin says Anthem and Vanguard are distinctly New Zealand and are the result of years of meticulous development.

“This is an exciting day to be a whisky fan,” said McLaughlin.

“We’re extremely proud of Anthem and Vanguard, and the fact that they’ve already picked up international awards is a testament to how exceptional they are.

“The products showcase the best of New Zealand, having been distilled and cut with pristine Central Otago glacial waters and made using locally grown barley, including our distinct Manuka smoked variety. The end result is a highland malt-esque whisky which is rich, elegant and subtle.”

One of the unique features of the products is the inclusion of Manuka smoked malt, from New Zealand’s native Manuka plants, which is used instead of peat.

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

For the past four years Scapegrace has offered limited release whisky to the world, with Anthem and Vanguard the first core expression for the brand. Anthem has recently been listed by premium British supermarket Waitrose, and is now in 132 branches nationwide.

“This is a key step for us as we grow our whisky reputation. We’ve been receiving huge demand for our whiskies internationally so we’re looking forward to seeing the reaction from whisky lovers in New Zealand.”

Anthem and Vanguard are now available nationwide at a RRP of $89.99.

About Anthem

Cask Type: Virgin French Oak

Malt: New Zealand Smoked Manuka

ABV: 40%

Liquid: Natural Colour and Non-Chill Filtered

Tasting Notes: Spiced walnuts, Cider Apple & Sweet Hay

About Vanguard

Cask Type: Virgin French Oak

Malt: New Zealand Laureate

ABV: 40%

Liquid: Natural Colour and Non-Chill Filtered

Tasting Notes: Poached Pears, Vanilla Custard & Anzac Biscuits

ENDS

About Scapegrace Distilling Co.

Scapegrace Distilling Co is New Zealand’s largest independent spirits company, founded in 2014 by brothers-in-law Daniel McLaughlin and Mark Neal, alongside Richard Bourke.

Today, the Scapegrace brand is available in 43 markets worldwide, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative spirit that captures the adventurous essence of New Zealand. In addition to its award-winning Scapegrace portfolio, the company also produces distinctive brands under Rogue Society Liquor, including premium gin and vodka, as well as ThunderDonk - a bold, flavoured whisky.

Scapegrace Gin was awarded World’s Best London Dry Gin at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition in London, 2018. Its unique bottle design also turned heads, earning Best Looking Gin Bottle at the San Francisco Spirits Competition.

Scapegrace’s single malt whisky range continues to gain international acclaim. Vanguard Whisky won gold at the World Whisky Awards 2025, while Anthem picked up gold at the World Whisky Masters in 2024.

All Scapegrace spirits are proudly crafted at New Zealand’s largest distillery, a state-of-the-art facility purpose-built by the brand on the banks of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago. This world-class distillery ensures Scapegrace can meet growing global demand across its luxury portfolio of Single Malt Whisky, Flavoured Whisky, Gin, Vodka, and premium RTDs.