New NED Whisky aged to rugby chant

Billy Moore's ‘Queenslander’ chant has gone down in State of Origin folklore, and now rugby league fans have a chance to drink a uniquely Australian whisky sound-aged to the Queensland legend’s iconic call to arms.

Top Shelf International's NED Australian Whisky, in partnership with Queensland Rugby League and Moore, has produced a unique spirit for this year’s Origin series, ageing a specially selected premium barrel for more than 1000 hours to Moore’s 1995 “Queenslander” chant in a purpose-build container at the NED Whisky barrel house.

The Maroons' big win in last year's Origin series inspired the team at NED to create a whisky that embodied Queensland’s spirit and energy to mark their third year as the official whisky partner of the Maroons.

The team at NED said the sound waves of Moore’s chant created kinetic energy in the barrel that vibrated through the whisky, enhancing maturation and creating a richer, bolder spirit.

''When Queensland are under pressure, that's the key moment; that's where our call comes from,” Billy Moore said.

“It’s a pressure call when you need help. That’s what Queensland is about, uplifting your spirits, knowing who we’re fighting for, the legacy before and those that come after.”

The Queenslander Blend release is the third time NED Australian Whisky has used innovative sound-ageing to create unique and distinctive whiskies – the first two have been collaborations with its motorsport partners, Supercars and Grove Racing.

Bottled at 44% ABV, NED Queenslander Blend is bold and rich with flavours of bright citrus notes, bold toffee, and rich oak.

Top Shelf International, through the NED Whisky brand, continues with the Queensland Rugby League as an Official Whisky Partner and as the Queensland Maroons Coaches Partner. The partnership extends across the men's and women's Maroons' programs.

Less than 500 bottles of NED Queenslander Blend are available for RRP$89.95 from the NED Whisky website and select independent bottle shops in Queensland and northern New South Wales.

A custom Maroons branded NED and Cola 6% ten pack will also be available for a limited time.