The list of the top 50 Women in Food and Drink Aotearoa, New Zealand, has just been announced, with Reefton Distilling Co. founder and chief executive Patsy Bass making the cut.
Those on the list include leading lights and young up and coming achievers, from across a broad range of industries and sectors that make up the food and drink landscape in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Founded by Kelli Brett, editor of Cuisine Magazine in 2022, Women in Food and Drink is a national incentive formed to connect all women involved in the food and drink sector across New Zealand.
A tireless ambassador
Bass said she was both “thrilled and more than a little surprised to be included in the list of the top 50”.
“I know that the global Spirits Industry is traditionally considered to be male dominated. But there are a great number of women out there doing exceptional things both in Aotearoa and around the world, and it is wonderful to be recognised as one of them,” she said.
Bass is the founder and Chief Executive of one of New Zealand’s largest independent distilleries. She is also a tireless ambassador for the West Coast region and all it has to offer.
A founding member of Distilled Spirits Aotearoa, Bass has been an ‘inspirational leader’ who brought her vision for Reefton and the New Zealand Spirits Industry to life.
Bass has always understood how sharing the stories behind Reefton Distilling Co.’s people, brands and ethos can provide a powerful tool for change.
Bass continues to push the boundaries, making a name for herself and her company, with innovative new products year on year. In 2023 Bass negotiated a deal that saw Reefton Distilling Co. become the first New Zealand Distillery to sell bulk Whisky to the Scots!
And in 2024 she made the headlines again with Reefton Distilling Co. becoming the first New Zealand Whisky Distillery, and the first West Coast business, to achieve the international B Corp certification.
Awarded for positive governance, financial, environmental and social impact, Bass hopes that this is a path other businesses in the industry, and the West Coast region, will adopt.