Thomson Whisky joins UK’s Speciality Brands

Boutique distillery Thomson Whisky has joined the portfolio of UK premium spirits distributor Speciality Brands.

The award-winning New Zealand brand will be part of Speciality Brands’ world whisky portfolio, which includes the likes of Nikka, Michter’s, Kavalan and Starward. Speciality Brands will be exclusively distributing the Thomson Whisky in the UK starting 12 May 2025.

Four expressions are joining the portfolio: Mānuka Smoke Single Malt Whisky, South Island Peat Single Malt Whisky, Two Tone Whisky, and Full Noise Limited Edition Whisky.

Chris Seale, Managing Director of Speciality Brands, says: “The breadth of our world whisky portfolio is one of the most unique in the UK, and we are thrilled to be adding a whisky from New Zealand. Thomson has gained a great reputation over the last decade for the quality of its liquid and significant focus on sustainability and locality. We are extremely passionate about high-quality spirits with compelling stories, and we can’t wait to get stuck in and spread the word about Thomson in the UK.”

Rachael Thomson, Co-founder, Thomson Whisky Distillery, says that partnering with Speciality Brands to grow their business in the UK is a momentous moment. “From the minute we started conversations, it was clear that Chris, Nathan and the team fully understood our strategic business goals and our approach to distilling unique New Zealand whisky. They are the market leader for a reason and we’re lucky to be backed by such a force.”