The Dunedin Distillery
A Blend of Heritage and InnovationIn 2020, the New Zealand Whisky Collection embarked on an exciting new chapter with the opening of our state-of-the-art distillery, nestled within the historic Speight’s Brewery in Dunedin. This unique location bridges two iconic New Zealand traditions – the art of whisky distillation and the heritage of fine brewing.
Our distillery is a celebration of craft and innovation. Every drop of whisky is created using the finest ingredients, with techniques that honour age-old traditions while embracing modern advancements. From milling to mashing, fermenting to distilling, the process reflects our commitment to producing world-class single malts and blends that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
The Dunedin Distillery proudly resides within the iconic Speight’s Brewery
At the heart of The Dunedin Distillery are two passionate and skilled craftsmen, Michael Byars and Cyril Yates, whose expertise drives our whisky-making process.
Michael Byars brings a modern perspective to the art of distillation, combining technical precision with a deep appreciation for traditional methods. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Michael ensures every batch produced at The Dunedin Distillery meets the highest standards, delivering bold and distinctive flavours that represent the spirit of New Zealand.
Cyril Yates is a living connection to New Zealand’s rich whisky heritage. A former distiller at the original Willowbank Distillery, Cyril’s wealth of experience and intimate knowledge of whisky-making traditions are invaluable. His dedication to preserving the essence of Willowbank’s legacy ensures that our whiskies honour the past while embracing the future.
Together, Michael and Cyril form the perfect partnership, blending innovation with tradition to craft world-class whiskies that celebrate the heritage and potential of New Zealand whisky.