Thomson Whisky joins Speciality Brands
London-based drinks agency Speciality Brands has welcomed New Zealand’s Thomson Whisky into its growing portfolio.
From 12 May, Speciality Brands will exclusively distribute Thomson in the UK. The New Zealand whisky brand joins Nikka, Michter’s, Kavalan, and Starward in the distributor’s world whisky portfolio.
Chris Seale, managing director of Speciality Brands, said: “The breadth of our world whisky portfolio is one of the most unique in the UK, and we are thrilled to be adding a whisky from New Zealand.
“Thomson has gained a great reputation over the past decade for the quality of its liquid and significant focus on sustainability and locality. We are extremely passionate about high-quality spirits with compelling stories. We can’t wait to get stuck in and spread the word about Thomson in the UK.”
Mathew and Rachael Thomson launched Thomson Whisky as an independent bottler in 2009. The pair established a boutique distillery in Riverhead, northwest of Auckland, in 2014.
Rachael commented: “Partnering with Speciality Brands to grow our business in the UK is a momentous and proud moment for our distillery.
“From the minute we started conversations, it was clear that Chris, Nathan and the team fully understood our strategic business goals and our approach to distilling unique New Zealand whisky. They are the market leader for a reason, and we’re lucky to be backed by such a force.”
Made using locally sourced ingredients, Thomson Whisky claims to be the ‘first’ whisky brand to use manuka wood to smoke its barley, which is said to set it apart in both flavour and tradition.
The brand has four expressions: Manuka Smoke and South Island Peat single malts, Two Tone Whisky, and Full Noise limited edition whisky. The whiskies retail between £48 and £90 (US$64-$120).
Mathew, who is the brand’s head distiller, added: “We’re excited to partner with Speciality Brands and share our whiskies with UK drinkers. We bring ingredients, climate, and unique flavours from the South Pacific in our whisky. This taste journey will now be available across the UK via Speciality Brands.”
Related news
Tipple: rethinking brand building and distribution strategies
