For Immediate Release
New Zealand’s Scapegrace Distilling Co. is shaking up the whisky world with the launch of ThunderDonk, a bold new flavoured whisky distilled in Central Otago.The Scapegrace team has spent the past 18-months developing ThunderDonk, using aged whisky and flavours to create the best tasting flavoured whisky in the world.
The drink is available in two flavours; Spiced Maple and Salted Caramel.Made with real single malt whisky from Scapegrace’s brand-new distillery on the banks of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago, ThunderDonk is Scapegrace’s official entry into the liqueur category. The product is tapping into the growing demand for flavored whisky spirits, with the global market projected to expand from $10 billion in 2023 to nearly $19 billion by 2032.
Scapegrace Co-Founder Daniel McLaughlin says the name ThunderDonk reflects the brand’s playful and boundary-pushing spirit.
“ThunderDonk is bringing an independent, bold, and locally made flavoured whisky to the market. This is a drink that’s made to share and unite, and we wanted a name which encapsulated that,” said McLaughlin.
“We don't take ourselves too seriously, but we're serious about what's in the bottle, especially when it comes to our flavour profiles”
ThunderDonk delivers a playful and premium drinking experience, with its balance of sweet, savoury, and spice making it perfect for cocktails, as a chilled shot, or simply enjoyed neat.
“This is a product that really stands out, whether it’s on the backbar or on your shelf at home. The flavours have been meticulously developed and it’s the perfect drink to enjoy with friends,” McLaughlin added.
“Flavoured whisky is exploding in popularity and we’re really excited about the potential for this product.The storm is here, and we want you to ride it with us. Enjoy ThunderDonk!”
ThunderDonk is available nationally across all the main retail banners and targeted on premise for an RRP of $59.99.
For more visit: thunderdonk.com
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.
