Scapegrace Distilling Co. has won a gold medal for its Vanguard single-malt whisky at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards [1].

The recognition places the Central Otago-based distillery among the top producers in the region and validates New Zealand's growing influence in the global spirits market.

The Vanguard expression was named the Top New Zealand Single Malt during the 2025 awards cycle [1]. This gold medal follows another high-profile achievement for the brand, as the whisky also secured a silver medal at the 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition [2].

Produced in the southern part of New Zealand's South Island, specifically in Central Otago [2], the whisky has gained traction beyond traditional industry circles. The spirit was recently featured as the brown-liquor pick on episode 979 of the Windows Weekly podcast by TWiT [2].

The distillery's success in these international competitions highlights the specific terroir and production methods used in the South Island region. By securing both gold and silver honors across two different major competitions in 2025 [1], [2], Scapegrace has established a benchmark for other New Zealand distillers.

Industry analysts often look to these competitions to identify emerging trends in the luxury spirits sector. The inclusion of the Vanguard whisky in a tech-focused podcast like Windows Weekly suggests a crossover appeal that extends into diverse consumer demographics, bridging the gap between traditional connoisseurs and modern enthusiasts.

“Vanguard won gold as the Top New Zealand Single Malt at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards.”

The dual success of Scapegrace at the World Whiskies Awards and the International Wine & Spirit Competition signals a shift in the prestige landscape for New Zealand spirits. By winning top honors in 2025, the distillery is transitioning from a local craft operation to a globally recognized brand, potentially increasing the export value and visibility of Central Otago's agricultural products.