The New Zealand spirits scene just got a welcome injection of innovation. Hawke’s Bay entrepreneurs Zach Gustafson and Daniel Brennan of Decibel Wines are making waves with Nowhere Bourbon, a distinctly local expression that’s captivating palates and challenging conventional bourbon expectations.
Gustafson’s relocation to the region two years ago revealed a gap in the market for premium bourbon options. Partnering with Brennan, a local Pinot Noir producer, they set out to fill it. Nowhere Bourbon is distilled and aged in Indiana, honoring classic bourbon production techniques while introducing a unique finishing process.
Following its arrival in Hawke’s Bay, the bourbon undergoes a crucial step: finishing in hand-selected Pinot Noir barrels sourced from Hastings. This process, a key element in Nowhere Bourbon’s appeal, imparts subtle yet significant nuances to the spirit’s flavor profile. The finished bourbon is then bottled in Napier.
Initially released in approximately 300 bottles at $120 for a 700ml bottle, Nowhere Bourbon is steadily gaining traction, even amongst those who previously held reservations about bourbon. Often, initial disappointments stemmed from encountering “the wrong ones” – overly aggressive or simply unrefined spirits. Nowhere Bourbon offers a refreshingly smooth and approachable experience.
On the palate, the bourbon delivers a complex blend of flavours. The initial notes reveal ‘caramelised notes expected of a true classic,’ complemented by ‘vanilla-and-cinnamon type of flavours.’ The distinctive touch of the Pinot Noir barrels introduces ‘dark fruit’ characteristics, resulting in a remarkably easy-sipping whiskey.
Currently available online and through select liquor stores, bars, and restaurants throughout New Zealand, Nowhere Bourbon is a testament to the creativity and ambition brewing within the Hawke’s Bay’s burgeoning spirits industry.
