Scapegrace unveils New Zealand’s largest distillery raising NZ spirits profile

CENTRAL OTAGO, Today: Scapegrace Distilling Co has opened a state-of-the-art distillery, poised to enhance New Zealand’s standing in world-class spirits production.

The $ 30 million project spans 3,000 square metres and includes single malt production, gin, and vodka facilities, enabling Scapegrace to meet long-term production goals.

“Throughout our distillery design, there has been no corner cut and no stone unturned to ensure that we are following authentic and traditional methods, while also showcasing the very best of our distinct Scapegrace portfolio,” said Co-founder Daniel McLaughlin.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Scapegrace is now New Zealand’s largest spirits producer, achieving global recognition and significant milestones, like selling over 100,000 cases.

“Our aim is to elevate New Zealand’s global profile as a producer of world-class spirits.” – Daniel McLaughlin

“We began our journey in a small Grey Lynn office in Auckland 2014, and it’s been an incredible adventure since, where this new facility is an end product of our commitment towards the future,” McLaughlin added.

The new distillery features a 5000L wash still and a restored 3500L white spirits still, adhering to traditional grain-to-glass methods. The facility, powered by hydroelectricity, also includes over 7,000 native plants to support biodiversity.

“Our aim is to elevate New Zealand’s global profile as a producer of world-class spirits. Over the past 40-years we’ve seen New Zealand’s wine industry experience huge growth and that’s what we’re working to create for our spirits industry,” said McLaughlin.

Located on Lake Dunstan’s banks, the 36-hectare distillery site was crafted by Cheshire Architects and offers an immersive blend of urban and rural design.

Scapegrace also plans a hospitality experience and public tours, set to begin in late 2025.