Pōkeno Origin is the flagship single malt of Pōkeno Whisky Company, New Zealand's largest single malt distillery, matured only in first-fill bourbon casks and bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV) in a 700ml bottle.
Pōkeno was founded in 2017 by Matt and Céline Johns, originally from England and France, with a vision to put New Zealand on the map as a single malt producer. Matt spent 25 years in the global whisky industry before the couple set out to make whisky using only New Zealand ingredients: pure volcanic spring water from the hills around the North Island distillery and barley grown by three family-owned farms on the South Island.
The spirit is unrushed, with an extra-long 90-hour fermentation and slow distillation to build body and flavor, and the warm, subtropical local climate accelerates maturation. Origin is an incredibly sweet and round whisky, with citrus, honey, grapefruit and creamy toffee, giving way to a complex and lingering finish.
It is a fine introduction to Kiwi whisky and a distinctive gift.
New Zealand is a young whisky nation, and Pōkeno set out to show that its barley, water and climate can make world-class single malt.
First-fill bourbon casks have held bourbon only once before, so they give strong notes of vanilla, honey and coconut.
A long fermentation develops more fruity esters in the wash, which carry through to a sweeter, fuller spirit.
Aotearoa is the Māori name for New Zealand.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Citrus, honey and grapefruit.
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Palate: Sweet and round, with creamy toffee.
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Finish: Complex and lingering.
Specifications
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Distillery: Pōkeno Whisky Company, Waikato, New Zealand
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Style: Single malt whisky
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Grain: New Zealand barley, South Island farms
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Cask: First-fill bourbon only
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Proof / ABV: 86 proof (43% ABV)
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Region: New Zealand
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Size: 700ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a drop of water, or make a highball. It pairs with lamb, citrus desserts or hokey pokey ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Pōkeno?
Matt and Céline Johns, in 2017.
What casks are used?
First-fill bourbon casks only.
Where do the ingredients come from?
New Zealand: South Island barley and volcanic spring water.
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