Some culinary pairings feel inevitable; a meeting of ingredients so perfectly matched that they demand to be brought together. The Southerly centres on one such pairing; a world-first whisky-infused Manuka honey that distils the raw beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness into a single, sumptuous jar.
At its core, The Southerly is a celebration of both contrast and harmony. Wild-harvested Manuka honey, gathered from the sun-drenched forests of the North Island, meets the rich, oaky warmth of an eight-year-aged whisky from the snow-capped landscapes of the South. The result is an infusion that is bold and nuanced — a golden elixir that brings the best of both islands together for a taste of the unexpected.
Crafted with care, intention, and a deep respect for provenance, The Southerly is an effortless way to elevate everyday indulgences and bring a new dimension to hosting occasions. Its versatility lends itself to both the simplest of pleasures and the most refined culinary moments — a drizzle over aged cheddar softens the cheese’s sharp tang, while a swirl on top of fresh figs wrapped in prosciutto amplifies the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Breakfast, too, becomes something quietly special — spooned over granola with creamy yogurt and seasonal fruit, it adds depth and a golden richness that lingers. For those with a taste for the unexpected, the honey thrives in contrast. It tempers the heat of spiced dishes, like glazed roast meats, sticky ribs, or fiery chicken wings, bringing balance and a hint of sweetness.
It’s equally at home in the realm of dessert, acting as a decadent finishing touch over a scoop of ice cream or the perfect pairing for dark chocolate — and sublime when drizzled over poached pears, where its warmth complements the fruit’s delicate fragrance.
The Southerly also finds a place behind the bar, offering a refined alternative to traditional sweeteners in cocktails. A splash transforms a whisky sour, a toddy, or even a classic Manhattan, enhancing each sip with subtle floral undertones. Whether stirred into a smoky old fashioned or paired with citrus and bitters for a fresh twist on a classic, it’s a modern bartender’s secret weapon — an ingredient that deepens a drink’s complexity while remaining effortlessly smooth.
Every element of The Southerly has been thoughtfully considered, from the bespoke wooden lid — a nod to the Manuka and oak that define its character — to the dark glass jar that protects its golden contents. This is a product designed not simply to be used and discarded, but savoured, shared, and gifted, bringing a unique talking point to the table, and elevating social occasions to new heights.
To enjoy The Southerly is to experience New Zealand’s wild extremes — a journey from forest to distillery, hive to bottle, north to south. It’s an invitation to elevate, to indulge, and to discover something truly rare.
