NZ Small Batch Gin Awards – 2025 Results

New Zealand's Best Small-Batch Gins Revealed in 2025 Awards; Clarity Distilling and Awildian Shine as Industry Champions.

The results of the 2025 NZ Small Batch Gin Awards have been officially announced, showcasing the exceptional talent and innovation driving Aotearoa's boutique gin scene.

Now in its second year, the awards celebrate gins crafted in stills under 1,000 litres, with a unique focus on consumer-led judging and sustainability in distillation. With strong backing from sponsors East Imperial and RIEDEL, this year's competition attracted a record number of entries from distilleries across the motu.

"This isn't about big brands or slick marketing," says Luke Thomas, organiser of the awards. "It's about flavour, creativity, and authenticity-gins that stand up in the glass, judged by real gin lovers."

Major Honours Awarded

- NZ Small Batch Distillery of the Year: Clarity Distilling Company Ltd

- NZ Small Batch Gin of the Show: Awildian Testamentum Series Tangelo

- Sustainable Distillery of the Year: Dr Beak

2025 Champion Gins (Top in Class)

- London Dry: Rifters Original Dry Gin

- Classic: Dr Beak New Zealand Garden Gin

- Contemporary Style: Third Island Gin - Rakiura Distilling

- Flavoured: Awildian Testamentum Series Tangelo

- Navy Strength: Clarity Navy Gin - Clarity Distilling Company

In total, over 60 medals were awarded across Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories, recognising excellence in both traditional and experimental expressions.

Sustainability in Focus

The Sustainable Distillery of the Year title highlights those going above and beyond in their environmental practices, with Dr Beak earning top marks for initiatives in organic sourcing, carbon awareness, and plastic-free packaging.

A Growing Category

With the local gin market continuing to thrive, these awards shine a spotlight on New Zealand's ability to compete with the best internationally-through bold flavour profiles, native botanicals, and a commitment to craft.

"New Zealand's gin industry is no longer emerging-it's arrived," adds Thomas. "We're seeing distillers take risks, experiment with ingredients, and put sustainability at the heart of their process."

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