Broken Shed Vodka is a premium New Zealand spirit born from the pristine landscapes of Wānaka and inspired by a simple philosophy: exceptional ingredients need very little interference. Crafted from sustainable New Zealand whey and blended with crystal-clear waters sourced from both the Southern Alps and North Island springs, this remarkably smooth vodka captures the purity, balance and natural beauty of its homeland. Free from additives, GMOs and added sugars, it is an elegant vodka equally suited to sipping neat, premium cocktails and luxury gifting.
Tasting Notes & Experience
Crystal clear with brilliant luminosity, Broken Shed Vodka opens with delicate aromas of fresh cereal, wild honey and crisp mountain air, complemented by subtle hints of crushed stone and citrus. A luxuriously creamy palate follows, revealing soft brioche, gentle vanilla and refined mineral notes wrapped in an exceptionally smooth texture. The finish is warm yet remarkably clean, leaving whispers of spice, lingering softness and impressive purity without any harsh alcohol burn.
Key Details
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Distillery: Broken Shed
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Type: Vodka
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Region: Wānaka, Central Otago, New Zealand
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ABV: 40%
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Volume: 750ml
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Base Ingredients: 100% New Zealand Whey
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Distillation & Filtration: Four Times Distilled • Minimally Filtered
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Water Source: Southern Alps Aquifer Water & North Island Natural Spring Water
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Signature Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature, lightly chilled or over ice
Craftsmanship & Story
Broken Shed Vodka was founded in 2009 after two friends discovered inspiration inside a weathered old shed overlooking the shores of Lake Wānaka. Captivated by the extraordinary purity of New Zealand's landscape, they partnered with master blender Mark Simmonds to create a vodka that reflected the country's remarkable natural resources rather than relying on elaborate production techniques or unnecessary additives. Their philosophy remains refreshingly straightforward: exceptional ingredients create exceptional vodka. Every batch is crafted from sustainably sourced New Zealand whey, transforming a renewable dairy by-product into an ultra-premium spirit while reducing environmental impact. Blended with pristine waters sourced from opposite ends of the country, Broken Shed has become an internationally acclaimed vodka celebrated for its authenticity, transparency and unmistakably New Zealand character.
Ingredients, Distillation & Special Features
Broken Shed Vodka distinguishes itself through an innovative production philosophy centred on purity, sustainability and natural texture. Instead of traditional grain or potato, it begins with 100% natural New Zealand whey, creating a naturally gluten-free vodka with an exceptionally creamy mouthfeel and delicate notes of brioche and sweet cream. The spirit is distilled four times through precision column stills before undergoing only minimal filtration, preserving its natural character rather than stripping it to neutrality. Its exceptional smoothness is elevated further by a proprietary blend of ancient mineral-rich aquifer water from New Zealand's Southern Alps and remarkably soft North Island spring water, producing outstanding balance and crystal-clear purity. Free from GMOs, added sugars and artificial additives, Broken Shed remains a genuine expression of New Zealand's clean environment, while its distinctive frosted bottle proudly showcases the iconic lakeside shed and spectacular alpine landscape that inspired the brand's creation.
Recognition & Accolades
Broken Shed Vodka has earned widespread international acclaim for its purity, sustainability and exceptional smoothness. From prestigious global spirits competitions to leading critics, it continues to be recognised as one of New Zealand's finest premium vodkas, reflecting the remarkable quality achieved through its minimalist production philosophy and pristine natural ingredients.
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Trophy – 2023 New Zealand Spirits Awards
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5 Stars – 2022 Wine Enthusiast
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Double Gold – 2024 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition
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Double Gold – 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
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Double Gold – 2020 Singapore World Spirits Competition
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93/100 Points – 2024 Ultimate Spirits Challenge
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92/100 Points – 2019 The Tasting Panel Magazine
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91/100 Points – 2026 VinePair
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Gold – 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
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Gold – 2022 New Zealand Spirits Awards
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Gold – 2022 International Women's Wine & Spirits Competition
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Gold – 2021 London Spirits Competition
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Gold – 2020 SIP Awards
These outstanding awards reinforce Broken Shed Vodka's reputation as one of New Zealand's most decorated premium vodkas, celebrated globally for its purity, craftsmanship and unmistakably smooth character.
Signature Serves & Cocktail Pairings
Broken Shed Vodka is wonderfully versatile, delivering exceptional purity whether enjoyed neat or as the foundation of refined contemporary cocktails. Its creamy texture, delicate mineral character and beautifully clean finish allow every ingredient to shine while preserving the vodka's unmistakable New Zealand identity.
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Classic Vodka Martini – Dry vermouth and a twist of fresh lemon peel showcase the vodka's velvety texture, crisp minerality and elegant finish in one of the world's most timeless cocktails.
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Espresso Martini – Fresh espresso and premium coffee liqueur beautifully complement the spirit's subtle brioche sweetness, creating a rich, silky cocktail with remarkable balance.
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Wānaka Mule – Ginger beer, fresh lime and Broken Shed Vodka combine to create a vibrant, refreshing highball where bright citrus and warming spice meet pristine mountain freshness.
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Kiwi Garden Fizz – Fresh kiwifruit, basil and sparkling soda highlight the vodka's clean profile, delivering a bright, aromatic cocktail inspired by New Zealand's natural abundance.
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Bloody Mary – Tomato juice, spices and fresh lemon allow the vodka's creamy mouthfeel and subtle peppery warmth to provide structure without overpowering the savoury complexity.
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Vodka & Tonic with Rosemary – Premium tonic, a bruised rosemary sprig and plenty of ice accentuate the spirit's delicate mineral freshness and beautifully clean finish.
Whether served neat to appreciate its remarkable purity or mixed into elegant classics, Broken Shed Vodka consistently delivers exceptional smoothness and effortless balance in every glass.
Food Pairings
Broken Shed Vodka is an outstanding companion to refined seafood and elegant dairy-driven cuisine. Fresh Bluff oysters, salt-cured gravadlax or premium Oscietra caviar beautifully complement its pristine mineral character, while the vodka's creamy texture cleanses the palate between each luxurious bite. It is equally rewarding alongside triple-cream Brie or mature goat's cheese, where its subtle brioche sweetness and lingering warmth enhance rich, delicate flavours without overwhelming them, creating a beautifully balanced and sophisticated dining experience.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
Beautifully crafted and proudly New Zealand, Broken Shed Vodka makes an exceptional gift for vodka enthusiasts, entertainers and lovers of premium spirits. Its sustainable production, internationally acclaimed quality and elegant frosted bottle ensure it is equally impressive presented as a thoughtful gift or enjoyed slowly at home, whether served neat, over ice or in beautifully crafted cocktails.
Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery
Order Broken Shed Vodka online for fast NZ-wide delivery. Every bottle is carefully packed with premium packaging options and the opportunity to include a personalised gift message, creating a memorable gifting experience from COVE 27.