Scapegrace Vanguard Single Malt Whisky

Scapegrace Vanguard is the bold debut single malt from New Zealand’s trailblazing Scapegrace Distillery. Crafted in Central Otago on the 45th parallel, this whisky is shaped by extreme seasonal shifts and matured in virgin French oak. Richly evocative of its homeland, it reveals poached pears, vanilla custard and Anzac biscuit sweetness, finishing long with spiced floral tea and honey. A landmark expression that marks the future of New Zealand whisky.

Tasting Notes & Experience

The nose opens with poached pears, vanilla custard and honeyed florals. The palate is silky and layered with Anzac biscuits, toasted chestnut, banana chips and cinnamon spice. A long finish unfolds with spiced tea, honey and subtle oak tannins — both elegant and robust, reflecting its virgin French oak maturation.

Key Details

• Producer: Scapegrace Distillery
• Type: Single Malt Whisky
• Region: Central Otago, New Zealand
• ABV: 46%
• Volume: 700ml
• Serve: Neat, with a splash of water, on the rocks, or in the Debonair Remastered

Cocktail Pairings

Vanguard lends itself to elevated serves: Debonair Remastered highlights its pear and vanilla; Wee Tassie layers spice and richness; Daybreak Highball offers a crisp, refreshing take; Matcha Brittle Fix contrasts malt with green tea earthiness; and the Northburn Coupe is a silky, fruit-forward showcase of this New Zealand single malt.

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 2014, Scapegrace has become a global name through its award-winning gins, now extending its vision to whisky. Distilled on the shores of Lake Dunstan, the Vanguard reflects the harsh Central Otago climate — scorching summers and icy winters — accelerating maturation. Made from New Zealand Laureate malt grain and aged in virgin French oak, it pays homage to the region’s pioneering distillers while signalling a new frontier in world whisky.

Special Features

Vanguard is the inaugural release from Scapegrace’s purpose-built Central Otago distillery. Matured in virgin French oak, it delivers a distinctive profile of poached fruit, creamy vanilla and spice, with no chill-filtration to preserve authenticity. Produced in limited batches, it captures both innovation and provenance in every sip.

Recognition & Accolades

This debut expression has already received international acclaim:

• Gold – 2025 World Whisky Awards, Best New Zealand Single Malt
• Silver – 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition
• Silver – 2024 World Whisky Masters Competition

These awards position Vanguard as a benchmark in the emerging New Zealand single malt category.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

As New Zealand’s newest luxury single malt, Scapegrace Vanguard makes a striking gift for whisky lovers and collectors. Its elegant packaging and limited release status ensure it is as memorable to present as it is to enjoy.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.