Whisky Review/Tasting: The New Zealand Diggers & Ditch

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: A blend of Australian and New Zealand whiskies.
Type: Double malt, non-chill filtered.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in ex-bourbon and French red wine casks. Specific maturation details for each whisky (Australian or New Zealand) are not disclosed.
Age Statement: Non-age statement.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky exhibits a slight red coloration, potentially from the French red wine casks. The bottle features a large opening and a unique cork made from two glued pieces, with varying hardness. The packaging includes detailed information and is associated with the New Zealand Whiskey Collection.

Balance of Flavors: A fruit-forward profile with a supportive sweetness and a fresh, slightly dry finish.
Unique Characteristics: Notably fruity, with an array of berry flavors complemented by hints of caramel, coffee, banana, dried fruits like dates, and a touch of wine-like grape notes.
Comparison: Described as a "fruit bomb," ideal for those who enjoy dissecting various fruity flavors such as cherry, strawberry, and blackberry.

Dedication: The whisky is a tribute to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), with historical references to the Gallipoli campaign.
Distilleries: Produced using whiskies from the Dunedin (Willow Bank) Distillery in New Zealand and a notable Tasmanian distillery in Australia. The New Zealand Whiskey Collection, which specializes in Willow Bank Distillery whiskies, plays a significant role in the whisky's background.

ANZAC Tribute: The whisky serves as a homage to the ANZAC forces, linking it to significant historical events like the Gallipoli campaign.
Trans-Tasman Blend: Represents a unique collaboration between Australian and New Zealand whisky producers, highlighting the shared heritage and camaraderie between the two nations.

"Very, very fruity, sided you can almost feel a bit of touch of wine in there with grapes strawberries blackberries."
"If you like to have that fruitiness and fiddle around, find out, is that more of a cherry flavor? Is that more of a strawberry flavor? Right whiskey for you."

A blend of Australian and New Zealand whiskies, matured in ex-bourbon and French red wine casks.
Non-age statement, non-chill filtered, with a fruit-forward flavor profile.
Pays tribute to the ANZAC forces, with historical ties to the Gallipoli campaign.
Produced using whiskies from the Dunedin (Willow Bank) Distillery and an unnamed notable Tasmanian distillery.
Ideal for those who enjoy exploring a variety of fruity flavors in their whisky.

Fruit Flavor Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate a pronounced fruitiness in their whisky will find the Diggers & Ditch exceptionally appealing.
History and Culture Buffs: Those interested in the historical and cultural significance behind their spirits will appreciate the ANZAC tribute and the trans-Tasman collaboration.
Whisky Collectors: Collectors looking for unique blends or whiskies with a story may find the Diggers & Ditch a worthy addition to their collection.
Beginners to Whisky: The approachable, fruity profile makes it a good starting point for newcomers to the whisky world, offering complexity without overwhelming.