By Charlotte Cowan
Scapegrace Distilling Co. has completed its national search for the most uniquely New Zealand cocktail, with a drink named the Taniwha taking the honours.
The Scapegrace: Uncharted Spirits cocktail competition challenged bartenders across New Zealand to craft a cocktail that showcases an aspect of the country’s rich terroir and natural ingredients.
More than 60 entries were submitted from across the country, with regional finalists flown to Central Otago to compete in the final event.
The Taniwha, created by Auckland bartender Cal Ross, was judged the winner.
The drink features Scapegrace Black, complemented by a local Syrah and a signature “Bushfire Shrub,” achieving a sophisticated balance of flavours that impressed the judging panel.
“The Taniwha stood out to a great degree in a field of already exceptional finalists drinks,” said Scapegrace Product Development & Advocacy Manager, Mikey Ball.
“The drink is a thoughtful and well executed example of depth of story and research that defined the Fiordland region in liquid. It also showcased a wonderful balance of conventional and local ingredients that painted the perfect picture.”
The Uncharted Spirits competition aimed to inspire bartenders to explore regional ingredients, with Scapegrace assigning specific areas of New Zealand for each participant to represent.
“We want each drink to reflect the diversity of New Zealand’s regions,” said Ball.
“This competition encourages bartenders to dive into the culture and natural resources of unfamiliar regions, expanding their understanding and introducing new flavour profiles into their work.”
Ball says they were inspired to create the competition as they explored the local flavours of Central Otago, where the brand is building New Zealand’s largest ever distillery.
Cal Ross, who bartends at Panacea in Auckland, says it was a fantastic experience.
“What a ride,” said Ross. “I’m chuffed to not only win but to tick off a few things on my bucket list on the way. The highlight was meeting some amazing people and fantastic competitors.”
Ross won $1000 + a trip to Central Otago to judge the competition in 2025.
