Mathew Thomson is the founder and head distiller of Thomson Whisky New Zealand. Based in Auckland, New Zealand, Thomson Whisky is one of the pre-eminent New Zealand whisky distilleries, creating award winning single malts and blends that reflect the natural world around the distillery.

Thomson Whisky is currently The Whisky Exchange’s ‘Rising Star 2024’ producer, as a distillery to watch.

The whisky Mathew is most proud of is Thomson Manuka Smoke single malt, for its uniquely New Zealand take on a smoked whisky, and for its recognition as a new flavour profile on the global stage. Made using native Manuka wood fire for the smoke aspect it exemplifies the ethos of using what is in abundance around you and the New Zealand approach of living close to nature.

Notable awards for Thomson Whisky include 4 Golds and 2 Double Golds at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Best New Zealand Single Cask and Best New Zealand Single Malt at the World Whisky Awards 2019, Best New Zealand Single Cask at the World Whisky Awards 2020, and Best New Zealand Single Malt at the World Whisky Awards 2023 & 2024.

Mathew’s commitment to handcrafting and traditional processes imbues all the spirit produced at the Thomson Whisky distillery.