Record entries for NZ Spirits Awards 2022
Organisers of the 2022 New Zealand Spirits Awards are reporting a record number of entries for this year’s event.
Entries closed in mid-April with 468 received – up 124 on the previous year and 214 more than the first Awards in 2019.
“We are delighted and happily amazed at the number of entries this year,” says Distilled Spirits Aotearoa Chair, Dr Sue James. “With the impact of COVID on business and the wider sector we had tempered our expectations a little but I guess this shows the resilience – and the continued growth – of the spirits industry in New Zealand.”
Organisers say that as in previous years, gin features strongly in 2022 with 235 entries.
“The continued popularity of gin remains a highlight and reflects the international trend for this category,” says Spirits NZ Chief Executive, Robert Brewer. “New Zealand, as well as international entries, have both grown this year showing the Awards are developing a solid reputation with all producers – domestic and international.”
Judging will take place over three days in Auckland. Medal winners will be announced on 12 May, and trophy winners across the 15 categories will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held in Auckland on 10 June. Trophies will be awarded for both Best in Category as well as Best in New Zealand product in Category.
Tickets are now on sale for the 2022 New Zealand Spirits Awards presentation evening.
