Overview: Bird Blended Malt Whiskey has secured the title of Australia’s Best Blended Malt Whisky at the 2026 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards. The South Australian spirit achieved this distinction as the sole gold medalist among eight entries in its category, retailing for $90 AUD per 700ml bottle.
The Full Story
Bird Blended Malt Whiskey has been named Best Blended Malt Whisky at the 2026 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards. The win represents a David-and-Goliath moment for the young South Australian label, as it claimed the only gold medal among eight entries in the Australian blended malt category. The remaining seven entries picked up five silver and two bronze medals. The whiskey was founded by Mark Bouris, Andrew Nugent, and Paul Giles, three friends whose whiskey journey began more than a decade ago. While the brand initially positioned itself within the premium space with bottles priced between $200 and $300, the founders maintained an intention to create something approachable for everyone. Bird launched in October 2025, positioning itself as an accessible entry point into the category that can often feel intimidating to newcomers.
Production & Profile
The whiskey is predominantly matured in bourbon casks with an apera-finished whiskey component adding another distinctly South Australian touch. Official tasting notes describe citrus, cream, baked shortbread, vanilla, barley sugar, buttery cream and honey. There is also a subtle savoury edge described as salty caramel and kind of shortbread flavours.
Brand & Industry History
The road to Bird was not built around making an inexpensive whiskey initially. The founders initially positioned their business firmly in the premium space, with bottles selling for somewhere between $200 and $300. However, they always had the intention to make something that was approachable and affordable to everyone. Paul stated that releasing Bird was part of the business model intended to be the more approachable, affordable one for everyone.
What This Means
For a category that can sometimes feel intimidating to newcomers, the founders are hoping Bird can be the bottle that changes that. The philosophy is about more than what’s printed on the label, emphasizing that people are paying for what’s inside. The focus remains on connection, family, friends, authenticity and the simple ritual of sitting down with someone.
Consumer Takeaway
Bird launched in October 2025 and retails for $90 for 700ml. This price point makes its latest accolade particularly appealing. The bottle offers a world-class spirit that aligns with the founders’ belief that enjoyment comes from looking someone in the eye and being authentic.
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