23/10/2026
What an incredible few month it’s been! We were blown away by the response to our Scapegrace Single Malt Cocktail Competition, with over 60 talented bartenders from across New Zealand putting their creativity to the test.
From an amazing range of entries showcasing just how versatile and exciting single malt wh**ky can be, six outstanding finalists earned their place at our National Final in Queenstown, where they battled it out for the title.
A massive congratulations to our six finalists:
🥃 Ross – Dee's Place
🥃 Rebecca – Bert's Bar
🥃 Trystan – Bedford Soda & Liquor
🥃 Umesh – Kamana Lakehouse Queenstown
🥃 Kiernan – Yonder Queenstown
🥃 Cat – Ferg's Bar Queenstown
After an incredibly close final, Ross from Dee’s Place was crowned our 2026 National Champion.
Scapegrace Marketing Manager Tim Giles said:
“It’s been an awesome few days in Queenstown with a seriously talented group of bartenders. The standard of cocktails and presentations in the final was exceptional, and the judging couldn’t have been much closer. Beyond the competition, it’s been great getting everyone together, sharing some amazing experiences and making some brilliant memories along the way. We’re incredibly proud of all six finalists and can’t thank everyone enough for getting behind the competition.”
A huge thank you to everyone who entered, supported and helped make this year’s competition such a success. The future of New Zealand single malt wh**ky cocktails is looking pretty exciting!
Congratulations again, Ross! 🏆
