New Zealand’s Scapegrace Distilling Co. is celebrating a major international win at the prestigious World Whisky Awards in London.

The brand’s Vanguard Whisky has been named the Gold winner and Best in Category of the Single Malt no age statement category at the World Whisky Awards, beating out some of the world’s top brands for the honour.

Scapegrace Co-Founder Mark Neal says it’s a milestone moment for the team.

"The World Whisky Awards represent the pinnacle of international whisky competitions, so winning this award is a massive achievement for us," said Neal.

"We’re incredibly proud of our team, and it’s fantastic to see our whisky receive this level of recognition."

Neal says Vanguard truly showcases the best of New Zealand, having been distilled with glacial waters from the Southern Alps, using locally grown barley, in the remarkable climate of Central Otago.

“The end result is a highland malt-esk whisky which is rich, elegant and subtle. It’s a great whisky and we’re pleased it’s making waves internationally,” said Neal.

It wasn’t the only win for Scapegrace at the awards, with the brand’s Ephemeral Whisky picking up a silver medal.

The World Whisky Awards celebrates the finest whiskies globally and saw over 1,500 entries this year.

The latest accolade adds to Scapegrace’s growing international reputation. In 2024, Ephemeral Whisky won Gold in the New Zealand Single Cask category at the World Whisky Awards, and in 2023, the brand received a Master Medal for its Single Malt Fortitude V Whisky at the Global Spirits Masters’ World Whisky Masters competition.

The World Whisky Awards involve a series of U.S. and European judging rounds, culminating in a final evaluation in London in early February.

About Vanguard

Cask Type: Virgin French Oak

Malt: New Zealand Laureate

ABV: 46%

Liquid: Natural Colour and Non-Chill Filtered

Tasting Notes: Poached Pears, Vanilla Custard & Anzac Biscuits

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

The Scapegrace brand is in 43 markets around the world where it’s known for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative flavours which boast a taste of New Zealand's adventurous spirit.

Scapegrace gin was voted World’s Best London Dry Gin at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition, London 2018. The distinct packaging has also garnered attention, voted best looking gin bottle in the world alongside the new Tanqueray 10 design at the San Francisco Spirits Competition.

Scapegrace is currently building New Zealand’s largest ever distillery on the banks of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago. This new spiritual home for the brand will ensure the business keeps up with global demands across its luxury portfolio of Single Malt Whisky, Gin, Vodka and premium RTDs. Shop Scapegrace here.