Every year, StopPress catches up with a group of industry leaders from across Aotearoa to talk about the year that was. From the highlights and the lowlights to their favourite foods, fruits and Christmas traditions, they give us a little insight into 2025 as well as a look forward to 2026.
Ben Leggett is director and distiller at Elemental Distillers, based in Blenheim.
What was both your top highlight and biggest challenge of working in the distilling business in 2025?
The highlight would have to be the launch of our Roots Light Marlborough Spirit – aromatic and full flavored, but low in alcohol and less calories than a standard gin. Cracking the technology on this one to perfect the flavour profile was a true ‘Eureka’ moment and it’s been awesome to see how much people have been enjoying the lighter tipple over summer.
The biggest challenge would have to be the economic climate. We’re a luxury item and Kiwis just aren’t spending as much with the cost of living.
Did you use AI this year? If so, how?
Not so far. And while I can’t see where we would need it in the future either, there is an undeniable widespread indoctrination of AI that may be hard to avoid.
What is your favourite part of making gin?
Being challenged to deliver a new style or expression of flavour that you wouldn’t normally consider (our Pinot Noir Gin is a great example). It forces you to re-examine new ingredients, processes and technologies – ultimately leading to some of the best experiences and learnings in distillation and gastronomy.
What are the current trends in the distilling industry?
Low and no alcohol spirits is definitely something that’s growing in popularity, both globally and here in New Zealand. We’ve banked on the rapid growth of no and low alcohol products with the release of our 14% Roots Light Marlborough Spirit.
Consumers across multiple demographics are being more responsible or ‘sober curious’ in their alcohol choices. Agave spirits continue to trend, as do low calorie or low carb alternatives.
What changes are you expecting to see in 2026?
We’re all optimistic about a return of economic buoyancy with consumers returning to social spending habits more akin to 2023. The last few years have continued to challenge everyone in premium food and beverage sector but we’re seeing positive growth already.
For our own business, we will continue to push export growth into the APAC and plan our first visit to Japan to visit trade in market.
Quick fire five:
Favourite drink?
It has to be a Negroni – I’m a gin man after all. I’ve been enjoying ‘low-gronis’ recently with our Roots Light Marlborough Spirit – full taste but 1/3 of the alcohol.
Favourite recipe?
Lowgroni – 2:1:1 ratio of Roots Light : Sweet Vermouth : Campari (and an orange slice garnish)
Last film you watched at the cinema?
“Bad Guys 2” with the kids (Charlie 8, Toby 6). Great family giggles, complete with overpriced popcorn and stale hotdogs. Wouldn’t change a thing.
Apples or oranges?
Seville Oranges specifically. Squeezing the flesh and keeping the zest for my pre-batched Negronis… naturally.
Best thing to eat at Christmas?
Pigs in Blankets – EASY! Greatest of all English inventions. Pork chipolatas, streaky bacon and a sticky honey-mustard glaze… mmmmm
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