Dive into a compelling conversation with Mikey Ball, a product development expert at Woodward Street Distillery, as we explore what genuine innovation really means in the drinks industry. Discover how ancient techniques, authenticity, and storytelling shape truly original products, and learn practical insights on navigating the balance between tradition and modernity.
You’ll also hear a sneak preview of what he’s up to at Auckland Cocktail Week.
In this episode:
The difference between copying techniques and building original flavors
How ancient traditions inform innovative product development
The importance of deep foundational knowledge and context
Recognising superficial “innovation” versus true originality
The role of storytelling and narrative in product positioning
Examples of misleading terms such as “ultrasonic distillation”
Authenticity as a marker of genuine innovation
Practical approaches for elevating industry standards and consumer experiences
The parallels between product creation behind the bar and in distilleries
How to embed culture, technique, and authenticity into branding and packaging
