This release is more than just a whisky – it’s the result of a journey we have shared with our Divergence Whisky Society members from day one. The exclusive Divergence Whisky Society barrel, as voted by the society members, is an ex Otago Pinot Noir barrel from Maude Vineyard in Wanaka. It has been heavily charred to a No.4 “Alligator” char at the distillery and filled with a medium peated (31ppm) whisky new make at 62.5% Alc/vol. The wash was brewed under contract at Wigram Brewery and double pot still distilled, through the 500 litre copper pot still at our Sandyford Street, Christchurch distillery, by our Distiller Jack May in August 2022. Bottled at cask strength, this is a one-off release that will never be repeated.

Smoldering dried apricot and berries over a seaside bonfire in autumn, mingling with fallen leaves and hints of brine on the nose. Subtle iodine notes drift from the smoke, lingering like charred oak kissed by saltwater. The palate delivers a punch of iodine-soaked dried plums, lightly dusted with chocolate, echoing the medicinal peat. Undertones of briny oyster shell and coastal minerality anchor the whisky, finishing with a gentle herbal warmth.

‍