South Australian Distillers Dominate with Top-Shelf Results
Turns out we don’t just do wine well — South Australia is officially leading the way when it comes to spirits too. The eighth annual Tasting Australia Spirit Awards just wrapped up, and SA absolutely cleaned up. (Now that’s the spirit!)
Judging was led by local legend Tim Boast, head distiller and co-founder of McLaren Vale’s Never Never Distilling Co, with a panel of expert judges tasting their way through 175 entries from across the country. We’d be happy to put our hand up for a gig on that panel!
Fleurieu Distillery – Premier’s Spirits Award
Goolwa’s Fleurieu Distillery took home the biggest gong of the night with their Telemachus Single Malt Whisky. Not bad for a crew who started out brewing beer on the wharf. Their whisky is big, bold, and exactly what you’d want to sip by a fire on a chilly night. The Goolwa crew also picked up a string of other accolades at the awards.
Best Distiller – Imperial Measures Distilling
Port Adelaide’s Imperial Measures took out Best Distiller with their Scarlet Sweet Vermouth and Ounce Gin. These guys are all about using local ingredients to make world-class booze — and they’re nailing it.
Best Gin – Sawmill Gin, Clare Valley
If you’re a gin-lover, and you haven’t met Mr Wriggles, it’s time. Crafted by Clare Valley’s Sawmill Gin, Mr Wriggles is a multi award-winning all rounder. Pair your tasting with a visit to this gorgeous boutique distillery set amongst rolling vineyards, with farm-dam vibes.
Best Vodka – Moo’s Distillery, Waitpinga Valley
The team at Moo’s Distillery have turned an old dairy into a seriously cool distillery, and their winning vodka is called Daisy (of course). It’s smooth, creamy, and perfect for your next espresso martini.
Best Rum – Mad Monkey Distillery, Dudley Park
This city mob even managed to beat Bundaberg with their award-winning rum. They’re still, affectionately called Albert, is the star of the show at the Tiki-inspired Dudley Park oasis.
Best Brandy – St Agnes, Barossa
No surprises here – St Agnes have been the brandy kings for one hundred years this year, and they’re not handing over the crown anytime soon.
Other Regional Medal Winners Worth a Sip
South Aussie distillers dominated the medal count, with other worthy shout-outs going to –
McLaren Vale Distillery, Tin Shed Distilling Co, Ginny Pig, Prohibition Liquor Co, Two Cats Distillery, Green Street Distillery, Little Blessings Brewing, Streaky Bay Distillers, Robbers Dog, Blackwood Brewhouse & Distillery, Flinders Gin, Reform Distilling, Milledges Distillation, Pluto Spirits, Sinkhole Gin Distillery, Ambra Spirits, LOBO Juice and Cider, and Tiny Friday Social.
Basically, if you’re in SA and you’re thirsty — you’re in luck. And if you need even more reasons to plan a tasting tour, check out our Top South Australian Breweries and Distilleries Guide.
