As Cardrona Distillery approaches its 10th birthday on 5 November 2025, we take a look back to where it all began. When Desiree Reid founded Cardrona Distillery her vision was bold: to create a New Zealand single malt whisky worthy of the world stage. Now, more than a decade later, that dream has been realised. Following the acquisition of Cardrona by International Beverage, Desiree has stepped into a new role as Global Sales Director. Her recent departure marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, both for her and for the distillery she built from the ground up.

It was back in 2011 that Desiree began her journey, undertaking years of research in Scotland and the United States before selling her farming business and moving to Wānaka. By 2015, after navigating the challenges of building in the Southern Alps, the spirit flowed for the first time. Since then, the distillery has become synonymous with handcrafted excellence, producing The Reid Vodka, The Source Gin, Rose Rabbit Liqueurs and, of course, its much-loved single malt whiskies. The whisky releases trace Cardrona’s steady rise: Just Hatched (2018), Growing Wings (2020), Full Flight (2022) and The Falcon, a marriage of ex-sherry, ex-bourbon and Central Otago pinot noir casks. Each bottling speaks to the valley’s identity which is shaped by pristine alpine water and the dramatic temperature shifts of Cardrona’s 520-metre elevation above sea level.

Now with Sarah Elsom as Master Distiller and Henry Caulton as Acting Managing Director, Cardrona looks to the future. Expansion plans include new warehousing and an enhanced visitor experience, ensuring its place among the world’s most respected spirits brands.

For those who travel to the valley, the distillery offers more than spirits. Its cellar door, tastings and Cuisine-hatted restaurant provide a true taste of the place, where every sip tells the story of Cardrona, past and future. MIA BENNETT cardronadistillery.co.nz