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Gin
A quintessential refresher with tonic and also the base of a huge number of cocktails, the popularity of this remarkably versatile spirit continues to grow. A predominant aroma and flavour of juniper is key to gin, the rest of the ingredients and the methods of production aren't regulated. Which is where things get really interesting... Nicks Wine Merchants is the place in Australia to buy gin online. We import many lines directly and stock everything from the latest trending classifications to the finest Australian Gins. Undeniably the largest selection of Gin in Australia. Click here to learn more about Gin or subscribe to our Spirits and Liqueurs Email Newsletter to keep up to date with new arrivals, tastings, special offers and more.
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Kyro Distillery Kyro Dark Gin (500ml)FINLAND$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 42.6%Made using a rye spirit base and botanicals such as birch, meadowsweet, cranberry and orange peel before being matured in small barrels. This recently won Gold at the 2016 The Gin Masters (The Spirits Business). The distillers suggest using it in an Old Fashioned for a Summery alternative to the cocktail. Tasting note: Bright gold with a pale straw hue. Appealing aromas of lemon cough lozenge, distant juniper and later hints of vanilla and sweet oregano. Wonderful mouthfeel with flavours of butter menthol lozenge, juniper, rye sour dough and a prolonged herbal, white pepper, cough lozenge and spearmint finish. Complex, classy and lively with the barrel input artfully managed. 42.6% Alc./Vol. -
- Nick's Import
Langtons of Skiddaw No.1 Gin (700ml)UNITED KINGDOM$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%From England's Lake district, Langton's is a product of two Lakelanders who use as many local ingredients as possible. The catalyst for the project was the discovery of an aquifer that sits under the mountain of Skiddaw. Their borehole taps into this source and is filtered through black slate. The purity and the pH of the water gives Langtons a slight sweetness perfectly balancing the blend of eleven botanicals. The base spirit is four-times distilled from grain, via a copper pot still. An unusual ingredient includes oak bark. The bottle, which is made in the north of England, reflects the contours of Skiddaw and the layers of slate from the aquifer. 40% Alc./Vol. No tasting notes available. - Lark Forty Spotted Spring Release Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%Named after the Forty-spotted Pardalote, the island's rarest bird, and produced at the Lark Distillery, this gin matches traditional gin botanicals with Tasmanian pepperberry. This special 'Spring" Release is infused with Villino coffee. It’s best enjoyed in the weak light of a fading afternoon, when the warmth is still lingering in the air. A hint of coffee to spark your soul, and a touch of juniper to jumpstart your heart.
40% Alc./Vol. No tasting notes available. - Lark Forty Spotted Summer Limited Release Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 40%
Distilled in small copper pot stills, Larks favour the steeping method of gin production and use traditional botanicals like juniper berry, coriander and lemon peel to create a traditional London Dry style.
Notes from the distiller... Appearance: Clear. Nose: Big floral and citrus driven nose gives way to earthy musk notes mixed in with subtle juniper and light spices. Palate: Explodes up front with the rose opening up to bitter orange and mandarin peel and a heavy muskiness mixed in with rosewater. Finish: Long finish of Turkish delight as the heavy muskiness mixes with delicate rosewater at the back of the palate.
40% Alc./Vol.Their serving recommendation is as a gin and tonic garnished with lime or cucumber or a sweet martini with chocolate bitters or a sweet iced tea garnished with mint.
- Lark Distillery Forty Spotted Australian Citrus Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%
A gin named after Tasmania's rarest bird, bringing together traditional flavours of juniper with the sweet, aromatic influence of Aussie citrus and the complexity of Tasmanian Oyster Bay Pine. With refreshing notes of orange and tangerine and a long, citrusy finish, each sip is like biting into a fresh orange.
Notes from Larks... Nose: Tangerine and orange top notes with juniper and candied lemon underneath. Palate: Orange juice and juniper weave together, revealing the citrus peel and juniper on the palate. Finish: Long, citrusy, clean and refreshing. An orange grove in a glass. 40% Alc./Vol.
- Lark Distillery Forty Spotted Winter Release Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%
Named after the Forty-spotted Pardalote, the island's rarest bird, and produced at the Lark Distillery, this gin matches traditional gin botanicals with Tasmanian pepperberry. Winner of Best Australian Matured Gin at the 2019 World Gin Awards.
This special 'Winter Release' has been barrel aged (cask types will vary from batch to batch) with twenty carefully chosen botanicals giving it a subtle golden hue. 40% Alc./Vol.
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Lawrenny 1818 Settlers Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 52.5%Joe Dinsmoor is head distiller at Lawrenny, having previously worked at Larks and Archie Rose. He's now swapped the big city life for the rural haven at Lawrenny Estate. This is a navy strength tribute to Tasmania's pioneers, reflecting their strength, persistence and character in gin. Tasting note: Initially restrained developing warming aromas suggesting lemon grass, citrus zest, piney juniper, hints of cardamom and Indian spices. Great balance at this ABV with an unbelievably creamy, vaguely fruity delivery hinting at lemon peel, chamomile, cardamom, white pepper and showing excellent persistence. Impressive. 52.5% Alc./Vol. -
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Lawrenny Van Diemens Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 42.5%Tasting note: Interesting scents of orris root, kelp and green pine becoming fresher, more citrusy then juniper accented after air contact. Follows through with lemon grass and liquorice root flavours, drying anise and a medium-weight, creamy-yet-warming finish. Distinctive. 42.5% Alc./Vol. - Leopolds American Small Batch Gin (700ml)Denver, Colorado, UNITED STATES$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%
Launched in 2002, Leopold’s American Small Batch Gin is made by distilling each of the 6 botanicals (juniper, orris root, cardamom, coriander and hand-zested Valencia Oranges and Pummelos) separately and then blending the six distillates together to make this hand-bottled, labelled and numbered gin.
If gin can be produced by adding the botanicals to the still before distilling the entire steep in one run, you might ask, why distill separately? Leopold's explains:
"...not all botanicals (juniper, coriander, etc.) have the same boiling point, so when a distiller distills all the botanicals together, searching for the best juniper flavor, for example, he/she is overboiling the coriander.
When botanicals are overboiled, tannin-like flavors are extracted, drying out the final Gin. We take a different tack by placing each individual botanical in the still and distill them off separately. We carefully make cuts like you would for a whiskey: heads, hearts, and tails. The heart portion is when, as an example, the fruity-floral nose of the juniper is at its cleanest. After the heart has been collected, the refined juniper nose gets muddled and cloying, smelling and tasting a bit like pine trees. We discard this portion, favoring the cleaner hearts portion, and this lends our spirit its rounded, clean finish that is unlike any other gin in the world. We apply this method for the rest of our botanicals: Orris Root, Cardamon, Coriander, and hand-zested Valencia Oranges and Pummelos, carefully extracting the best aromas that these botanicals have to offer. The result is a softer, brighter, and more approachable spirit.
Other reviews... Clear. Aromas of vanilla taffy, dusty tissue, ground pepper, and faint juniper follow through on a round entry to a dry light-to-medium body with faint golden raisin, pine needle, and spice notes. Finishes with a white peppercorn, citrus pith, anise powder, and talcum powder fade. Try in Bloody Marys.40% Alc./Vol. 88 points (Highly Recommended)
International Review of Spirits Award: Silver Medal
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Lighthouse Gin (750ml)Martinborough, NEW ZEALAND$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 42%A premium small-batch New Zealand gin, hand-crafted in Martinborough in a 200-litre copper still. The distillery was the brainchild of Neil Catherall, a former chief engineer at New Zealand Breweries. Botanicals include hand-zested naval oranges, yen ben lemons and leaves of peppery native botanicals such as Kawa Kawa. Tasting note: Clear, with aromas of brine, citrus, coriander seed, hints of cinnamon and mild juniper. Medium bodied with near zero burn in a silky, viscous delivery including flavours of juniper, citrus zest and pepper. Perfectly balanced, drying finish. Good vibrancy. Lingers with delicate cinnamon warmth. 42% Alc./Vol. -
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Lind & Lime Gin (700ml)SCOTLAND$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 44%Tasting note: [10ml sample] The very first spirit produced by The Port of Leith Distillery Company. The name is inspired by Dr. James Lind of Edinburgh who conducted one of the first clinical trials noting scurvy patients benefit from citrus. Key aromas include juniper and citrus followed by white pepper, lime peel and coriander, so more-or-less classic London Dry. Just five botanicals make for a deliciously creamy, mouth filling gin (without being over the top); dense juniper, grapefruit and hints of lime peel vie with pepper and coriander seed. Beautifully balanced gin in a beautiful bottle. 44% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... 5 Stars - diffordsguide.com -
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Little Lon Distilling Co Ginger Mick Gin (500ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 42%Tasting note: [Batch 11] Ginger snaps, pine, grapefruit and orange zest are subtly expressed in this medium bodied gin with appealing warmth, balance and texture. Ends on a gingery note. Recommended in a Negroni or a Gin Old Fashioned. 42% Alc./Vol. -
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Little Lon Distilling Co Miss Yoko Gin (500ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 42%Tasting note: [Batch 07] Full, vibrant aromas include earthy juniper, citrus oils and hints of cardamon. Follows in an oily, silky, medium-spiced gin with light tangy citrus, fresh juniper and lingering fruitiness through the aftertaste. 42% Alc./Vol. -
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Loch Distillery Small Batch Gin (700ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 41%Proprietor, Craig Johnson became a devotee of single malt whisky fifteen years ago while living in Melbourne. It started a journey that led to the small Victorian country town of Loch in South Gippsland, occupying an old bank building which now houses the distillery, brewery and cellar door. In between, Craig spent time with Bill Lark in Tasmania learning the art of distilling before designing a small brewery (in order to make whisky). Craig's copper distillery equipment (hand beaten in Portugal) was not readily available in Australia however the rest of the operation was made from locally sourced materials.
Whisky enthusuats will be ahppy to know that Single Malt Whisky production commenced in March 2015, distilled from in-house beers for malt spirit At the turn of each year a small cask sample will be released marking the maturation of the spirit and its journey towards the first mature batch of Loch Single Malt Whisky.
As for their pot distilled Gin, "The heart will remain constant, with subtle seasonal variations during the year as different botanicals become available from our garden."
Tasting note: Crystal clear with considerable legs. Presents an engaging bouquet of curry leaf, white pepper, juniper and turmeric over citrus, following through to a vibrant, mildly peppery citrus peel and juniper profile and a creamy finish; nicely harmonised flavours; subtle pepper / pine notes and suggestions of peppermint ice cream in the fade. Auspicious beginnings. Look forward to the whisky! 41% Alc./Vol.
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Loch Distillery The Weaver Gin (700ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 50%Tasting note: Clear. Lifted and densely packed bouquet offering light pine and juniper over fruity scents of lemon myrtle yoghurt, orange zest, smokey cardamom and peppercorn. Remarkably creamy at this strength; mid palate is semi-sweet with cough lozenge over background piney juniper. Finish is drier, more keenly peppery, tingly, lemon myrtle-like, fresh and medium long. A full bodied, well-balanced high ABV style that's eminently drinkable at 50%. - Lost Phoenix Australian Dry Gin (700ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%
Produced at Cut Hill Distillery, located in South Australia's Hindmarsh Valley, otherwise known for their whiskies. The 'Lost Phoenix' series is a second label that features experimental takes on traditional spirits. Their gin uses a grain spirit base and native botanicals such as lemon myrtle, mountain pepperberry and pink peppercorns picked from the property. The producers describe it as a classic dry style with juniper at the forefront and layers of citrus slowly creeping through with hints of herbaceous peppery notes. You'll also get grapefruit, lemon myrtle, eucalyptus and a lingering richness from the grain base. Recommended with tonic and a dash of soda, plenty of ice and a generous wedge of your favourite citrus. 40% Alc./Vol.
- Mackmyra Kreator Jin Gin (500ml)SWEDEN$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 47.3%This is the first gin from Mackmyra, better known as a whisky producer.
The distillery at Mackmyra Bruk was opened in 2002 and produced single malt whisky up until 2011, when the Gravity distillery in Mackmyra Whisky village opened and the production was moved. In 2017, the distillery at Mackmyra Bruk was brought back up and running under the name Lab+Distillery, with the aim of producing a new range of spirits. This is one. Released in 2017, Kreator gin is produced in the same stills used to create Mackmyra's whiskies. Rickard Aldén's long list of organically grown botanicals includes orange, lime, bourbon vanilla, lemon, grapefruit, pink pepper, bitter orange, ceylon cinnamon, ginger, lingonberry, cardamom, coriander seed, juniper berry, aniseed, raspberries and elderflower. Enjoy this straight up or in a classic Gin & Tonic. 47.3% Alc./Vol. -
- Nick's Import
Mahon Xoriguer Gin (700ml)SPAIN$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 38%Pronounced 'sho-ri-gair' and made on the island of Menorca, Spain - this is one of only two gins with its own EU designation of origin. The product was first made for British sailors who were stationed on the island between 1708 and 1802 and is still produced in the traditional way, distilled from a wine base and employing a selection of botanicals known only to the family. 38% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... 4.5 Stars - www.diffordsguide.com - Malfy G.Q.D.I. Con Limone Gin (1750ml)ITALY$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 41%A super sized collector's bottling produced by the Vergano family on the Amalfi Coast in Italy's east, a region known for its food and citrus - in particular, lemons - hence the label statement "Con Limone". Not surprisingly, this is not your typical London Dry. Expect a contemporary, lemon-heavy style. Other reviews... Tasted neat, the lemon is overwhelming and bordering on a sherberty limoncello. That said, add water or more importantly – vermouth / tonic / mixer and the core gin botanicals (juniper, coriander seed) come back into contention. Malfy Gin was always going to be a lemon forward gin – Con Limone – kind of gives that away… but there is a gin under there and while progressive, it would still appeal to any classic gin fans. The finish has a lovely depth too, with more piney wood-floor notes coming through. 41% Alc./Vol. - www.ginfoundry.com
- Manly Spirits The Beaches Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%
Just when you think you've tasted every possible gin variant, Gin-a-Colada enters the scene. Named ‘The Beaches’ it's a luscious, tropical spirit that will transport your tastebuds to sandy shores, with a pineapple & lime backbone and flavours of mango, coconut and banana. Other botanicals include Blood Orange, Rainforest Lime, Finger Lime, Juniper, Coriander, Angelica, Orris and Sea Parsley. Serve as a crowd pleaser in a tropical punch bowl, spritz it up with prosecco & soda or make exotic G&Ts. 40% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Colour: Peach pastel with cloudy opacity. Nose: Intense tropical notes of lush floral coconut, honeyed banana, and aromatic mangoes, with a hint of juniper & sea parsley notes poking through. Palate: Smooth and creamy upfront, with a rich sweet mouthfeel from nutty coconut, creamy banana, and juicy mango, coupled with citrus notes from blood orange, Rainforest lime and classic tart crushed pineapples. Length/finish: Lush, sweet notes, with a refreshing pine-lime citrus finish.
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Mars Wa Bi Damask Rose Japanese Gin (495ml)JAPAN$109. 99Bottle$1319.88 DozenABV: 45%Tasting note: This small batch release arrives from Mars Tsunuki, a distillery better known for their whiskies. Launched in 2018 for the Japanese market, it's distilled from rice and infused with petals from the famed Rosa Damascene hybrid, a variety renowned for its striking colour and fine fragrance, much sought after by perfumers. The bouquet opens with top notes of rose water and rose hips over fresh curry leaves and refreshing juniper. Creamy, elegant and beautifully integrated, the floral qualities are nicely captured on the palate too. It ends with warming spice, juniper and hints of herbal teas. Ginger and perilla (shiso) are also in the botanical mix. 45% Alc./Vol. -
- Nick's Import
Martons Gin (700ml)ITALY$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 47%Gin is hardly synonymous with Italy, making Marton's all the more unusual. This boasts distinctive packaging and a selection of Mediterranean botanicals including juniper, lemon, anice and ginger bread. At least one or more of the ingredients appears to have imparted some colour - or has it been barrel aged? Unfortunately, not much more information is available. Bottled at 47% Alc./Vol. No tasting notes available. -
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McHenry Federation Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 42.2%A special release from the most southern family-run distillery in the world. True to its title, 'Federation' gin utilises hand foraged botanicals from every Australian state. These include Kakadu Plum from the Northern Territory, Lemon Myrtle from Queensland, Strawberry Gun from New South Wales, Mountain Pepperleaf from the ACT, Cinnamom Myrtle from Victoria, Celery Top Pine from Tasmania, wattleseed from South Australia and quandong from Western Australia. Tasting note: Powerful scents of juniper, lemon peel, white pepper, pine sap and spiced fruits. Entry is mildly oily, viscous; Spices build through the middle stages, as does the lemon myrtle and juniper freshness. Creamy finish, trails off with pepper, tangy peel and piney juniper in the aftertaste. A robust and warming gin that should mix well. 42.2% Alc./Vol. -
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McHenry Classic Dry Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%William McHenry & Sons is the world’s most southern family owned and operated distillery, located at Port Arthur.
Mr. McHenry's current range consists of a 10-year-old single malt under the Three Capes label, plus a triple-distilled vodka and this London dry inspired style Gin. Botanicals include, citrus peel, star anise, coriander seed, cardamom and orris root, all beautifully balanced with juniper.
Tasting note: [Retasted July 2015] Flawless crystal clear appearance with a silvery blush. Moderate scents of pine sap and lemonade. After brief aeration, light lemon cordial dominates. Entry is light and subdued - in fact, it's almost water like - following through to a whispery profile that's basic juniper / lemonade-like with very understated white pepper. Exceptionally soft, silky mouthfeel; finish falls a little flat, lacking the vibrancy and freshness associated with the genre. The peppery spices go some way to salvaging the aftertaste. Faint lemon cordial fade. 40% Alc./Vol.
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McHenry Barrel Aged Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 40%William McHenry & Sons is the world’s most southern family owned and operated distillery, located at Port Arthur.
Mr. McHenry's current range consists of a 10-year-old single malt under the Three Capes label, plus a triple-distilled vodka and several gin variants. This cask aged gin is their latest expression, finished in 200L x-Wild Turkey Russell's Reserve Bourbon barrels. Botanicals include, citrus peel, star anise, coriander seed, cardamom and orris root, all beautifully balanced with juniper. Tasting note: Very pale straw blush, otherwise waterlike. Opens with fragile scents of lemon myrtle, pine needle and later suggestions of white pepper. Quite sedate, almost waterlike, with attractive cool mint and light juniper flavours. Delicate spices. Concludes gently peppery and with solid length. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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McHenry Old English Sloe Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 25%William McHenry & Sons is the world’s most southern family owned and operated distillery, located at Port Arthur.
Mr. McHenry's current range consists of a 10-year-old single malt under the Three Capes label, plus a triple-distilled vodka, a London dry inspired style Gin and this offshoot - a traditional English Sloe gin. Using their gin as a base, sloe berries sourced from Northern Tasmania are macerated to impart their succulent flavour.
Tasting note: [NB 26% ABV batch tasted] Slightly ruddy, ruby red with brick red edges. Offers moderate aromas of semi-ripe blackberry and raspberry. Light and natural in the mouth with brambly, dried berry flavours followed by hints of raspberry tart and flashes of gin peaking through at the finish. Ends nicely balanced, mildly tannic and pleasantly long. Avoids the 'too sweet trap'.
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McHenry Navy Strength Gin (700ml)Tasmania, AUSTRALIAReduced from $99.99$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 57%William McHenry & Sons is the world’s most southern family owned and operated distillery, located at Port Arthur. Mr. McHenry's current range consists of a 10-year-old single malt under the Three Capes label, plus a triple-distilled vodka and several gin variants, the latest being this "old school" Navy strength edition bottled at 57%. Tasting note: Fresher than the 'Classic' with delicate blackpepper, pine cone and dried juniper. Second pass finds coriander seed and light citrus peel. Creamy entry leads into a concentrated yet beautifully poised mid palate. Finish ups the vibrancy addling white pepper, ripe juniper and citrus to the mix. Solid length. 57% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... Awarded a Gold Medal at the 2015 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (ADSA). -
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Mobius The Company You Keep Citrus and Black Cardamom Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 44%The alter ego to Mobius Distlling's Signature Gin employs a different recipe. This citrus-forward style comes with a creamier nose feel offering notes of orange spice cake and moderate juniper, the cardamom ever-lingering in the background. There's noticeably more citrus on the palate too (think orange rind or mandarine) contributing a tongue coating oiliness as hints of cardamom emerge through the zesty, warming finish. A nice marriage of flavours with a richer mouthfeel, you'll appreciate its nuances most when enjoyed neat or over ice. 44% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The name of the gin itself begins this sense of anticipation; cardamom is often utilised in gin, but rarely in this form. The decadent, complex variation brings the classic menthol, cleansing notes of green cardamom with a distinctly smoky flavour. On the nose, black cardamom presents more subdued, warm, dry spices that are present but not yet fully realised. Funky esters grip onto the aroma, at first concealing but then blowing off to reveal lovely baked alpine characters. Hints of mint begin to cleanse the sinuses and offer a cooling sensation. The palate then bursts forward with intricate citrus that seems to dance. Oily juniper on the palate helps to keep the spirit hydrated and carries flavours together, building momentum. The black cardamom then culminates on the finish, all the subtle spices becoming fully realised in this punchy, enigmatic and rich smokiness, creating an eerie, almost arcane finish with just a touch of black lime. 94 points - Jess Clayfield, winecompanion.com.au
GOLD MEDAL - San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Silver Medal at the 2022 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards
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Mobius The Company You Keep Signature Gin (700ml)New South Wales, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenABV: 43%Getting the botanical balance right in a 'classic' gin can be tricky. Too many ingredients and it can lose direction and lack style. Too few and the gin can taste one dimensional. Mobius Distlling have succeeded in creating a signature expression defined by juniper (like a London Dry should be) with a hint of citrus in reserve. The aroma is soft and pure, infused with notes of crushed pine buds exuding a peel-like freshness, later joined by hints of cardamom and white pepper. The taste is silky, creamy, smooth and lemony with bright juniper and warming peppers finished by a gentle peel tang. Relaxed and refreshing on its own, this middle-weighter makes a lovely G&T, but go easy with the mixing as it can be quickly overwhelmed. The distiller's recommend a light tonic, garnished with a lime wedge. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Designed as a versatile 'signature' gin, it hits the marks of the classic form without heavily leaning into particular profiles. It drinks very prettily and is well balanced, belying a carefully crafted spirit with a clear intention to be flexible in its uses. The nose offers a subtle, sweet character with wisps of orange blossom, dry green spice and an almost dusky, ginger note. The palate follows through and elongates the sweeter tone all the way through, which helps to develop its lovely texture. The citrus notes that permeates the gin remain lively and sunny, while soft, juniper oils bring everything together. All in all, a polished and elegant gin that retains its joyful energy. 92 points - Jess Clayfield, winecompanion.com.au
Silver medal 2023 London Spirits Competition
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- Nick's Import
Mombasa Club Gin (700ml)UNITED KINGDOM$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 41.5%Made since the 19th century in England, the story goes that this nostalgic gin brand was shipped to the British population in Zanzibar, which today consists of the African country Kenya. There, it was almost exclusively consumed by the members of a private social club located in the coastal city of Mombasa - the place where the bustle of modern civilisation meets the magic and mystery of the exotic African world. Today this label finds new life as a small-batch London Dry gin made by Thames Distillers in London. It's produced from four times distilled neutral grain spirit and hand-selected botanicals including Juniper Berries, Angelica Root, Coriander Seeds, Cassia Bark and others, then shipped to Spain in bulk where it's reduced in strength and bottled. It's a classically juniper-forward style with a citrus/herbal finish, summed up as " a real London Dry, perfect for making aperitif cocktails or mixed drinks". The packaging is first rate. Very Limited Stocks. No tasting notes available. - Monkey 47 Distiller's Cut 2015 Release Schwarzald Gin (500ml)Lossburg, GERMANY$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 47%
Following on from the huge success of their standard bottling; the team at Monkey 47 up the ante with a full throttle "Distiller's Cut" - a vintage release that's limited to 4000 bottles. Distillers Cut also incorporates one special ingredient into the mix for every vintage, with 2015 highlighting 'meum athamanticum', commonly known as Spignel - A highly aromatic perennial plant initially cultivated in Scotland. The Spignel seeds utilised for this release were sourced from the German Black forest, in the mountainous area around Wolfach, known as the “Moosenmättle”.
Spignel, or meum athamanticum, is the only type of plant of the monotypic genus meum within the family of umbellifers (apiaceae). Growing in mountainous regions, it is a strongly scented perennial herb with delicate, finely divided aromatic leaves and white flowers. When the foliage is cut or crushed, spignel emits a fine, somewhat sweet scent that is similar to fennel, dill, lovage or even gin.
Beautifully packaged in an old world apothecary bottle, like it's sibling, this is produced in the Black Forest, Germany from no less than 47 botanicals (mostly from the region), distilled again and matured for three months in earthenware containers. Unusual ingredients include blackberry leaves, sloes, honeysuckle, pine shoots, cranberries and lingonberries. 47% Alc./Vol.
Extremely limited stocks available.
No tasting notes available. - Monkey 47 Distiller's Cut 2016 Release Schwarzald Gin (500ml)GERMANY$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 47%Following on from the huge success of their standard bottling; the team at Monkey 47 up the ante with a "Distiller's Cut" - a vintage release that's limited to 4000 bottles. Distillers Cut also incorporates one special ingredient into the mix for every vintage, with 2016 highlighting local honey. Black Forest Distillers chose a special honey for the job – the Schaberhof’s own Abietes Melle! The term “fir honey” generally refers to honey made from honeydew. This substance is produced by bees that collect the sugary, high-fibre excretions of scale insects (which is actually what honeydew is). Particularly noteworthy among culinary experts is honeydew honey from the silver fir tree (lat. Abies alba), which is a common sight in the Black Forest. Fir honey typically has a strong, tangy flavour and a greenish-black hue when held up against the light. The end result is a zesty, yet elegant dry gin with delicate, herbal top notes and a potent middle register. Beautifully packaged in an old world apothecary bottle, like its sibling, this is produced in the Black Forest, Germany from no less than 47 botanicals (mostly from the region), distilled again and matured for three months in earthenware containers. Unusual ingredients include blackberry leaves, sloes, honeysuckle, pine shoots, cranberries and lingonberries. 47% Alc./Vol.
Extremely limited stocks available.
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Mountain Goat Hopped Gin (700ml)Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: Clear. Piney juniper with a slightly herbaceous edge to the nose, including hints of bay leaf, lemon oregano and late orange zest. Super smooth. Dense, creamy juniper then secondary hints of tangy citrus. Muted coriander and warming spices finish this in discreet fashion. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Musgrave Pink Gin (750ml)SOUTH AFRICA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 43%Musgrave's Pink Gin boasts all of the characteristics of Musgrave 11, only it's less spicy, instead, accenting the floral notes of the rosehips and the infused rosewater. The rose is an eternal symbol of love and passion. Rose-scented oils still grace festive occasions and beauty regimes. Musgrave pink celebrates this flower of love and beauty employing the source of the rose, 'rose hip', which complements Musgrave's spicy nature. It's then infused with rose water for its timeless perfume. Tasting note: The aroma offers an attractive rose water aspect while retaining more traditional notes of juniper, white pepper and chamomile. Follows through in a light to medium bodied gin, with low-key spice, juniper and citrus lozenge flavours through the warming finish. Beautifully packaged floral design. 43% Alc./Vol. - Musgrave 11 Gin (750ml)SOUTH AFRICA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 43%An African gin which includes indigenous botanicals such as African Ginger (Whitei Mondei) and Grains of Paradise, reminiscent of the perfume of spice markets. African ginger roots taste like ginger or liquorice but have a vanilla-like aroma. For a long time they've been extensively used in traditional medicine as an antacid and a boosting tonic.
Grains of Paradise, also native to Africa, are woody and forest-like to smell, with a peppery warmth absent of the harshness of black pepper. The woodiness gives way to cloves, cinnamon and a faint hint of cardamom. In total eleven botanicals make up the mix in Musgrave gin, as implied by the label. 43% Alc./Vol. -
- Nick's Import
Nao Gin (700ml)PORTUGAL$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenA first for our shelves is this Portuguese gin, aged in wine barrels from Porto for four months. It has soft notes of port combined with a touch of spice, along side limes and fresh oranges. Recommended with a twist of grapefruit and a vanilla pod. Distilled in England and later bottled in Portugal, the name references the ships that were widely used by the Portuguese at one time. Comes distinctively packaged in a squat dark glass bottle with cork 'neck tie'. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Natural Distilling Co Hemp Gin (700ml)Gippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 40%A keen interest in whisky combined with a degree in science and a 55 year old dairy vat kick-started Rhys Staley's 2015 distilling project. Locally grown Gippsland ingredients formed the foundations, but when the Federal government legalised hemp in 2017, Rhys put innovation on the agenda. A license to grow hemp and 20-40 recipe trials later, the family and friends team released their first hemp based spirits. Both the gin and vodka are gluten-free, sugar-free, lactose-free and free from chemical additives, providing a natural hemp highlight. Tasting note: One of an increasing number of hemp gins, this highlights the cannabis terpene 'Limonene'. Ripe Myer lemons lean towards fresh mandarine peel on the nose. The theme continues in a medium bodied, citrus forward style, ending with flavours of limoncello and gentle spice. Very approachable neat, or try it with tonic and a citrus garnish. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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NB Gin (700ml)SCOTLAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 42%More and more of Scotland's distilleries are now producing gin. NB (short for 'North Berwick'), was launched in 2013. Made by husband and wife distillers, Vivienne and Steve Muir in batches of less than 100 litres, it quickly won admirers and was even voted the Best London Dry Gin in the world for 2015. Produced in a custom made still from grain spirit and eight botanicals including juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, grains of paradise, lemon peel, cassia bark, cardamom and orris root. Tasting note: Clear. Highly aromatic with a piney juniper / citrus medley followed by earthy, root vegetable, coriander and a complex, medium dry, junipery profile that includes cardamom and white pepper; Finishes with menthol / citrus peel lingering in the aftertaste. A classic, pure and refreshing style. 42% Alc./Vol. - 2020 Never Never Distilling Co. Juniper Freak Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 58%Tasting note: [2019 bottling] Made from juniper berries air-freighted from North Macedonia to Adelaide. Other gins come close, but the Freak beats them all when it comes to sheer purity, concentration and flavour definition. Juniper and lemon sorbet plus a touch of cool mint are dialed up to near impossible intensity while the finish fuses fresh pine buds with crushed peppercorns. Brilliantly balanced at Navy Strength, the aftertaste is sustained, deep and invigorating. Just like last years, outrageously good. One of the world's great gins. 58% Alc./Vol. 97 points
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2018 Never Never Distilling Co. Juniper Freak Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 58%Tasting note: Up there with the world's best gins, the 2018 Juniper Freak is massive in every sense offering the kind of texture, definition, poise and persistence that astonishes with every sip. Possibly even more intense than last years (more citrus too?), the aroma circles round and round in a whirlpool of imploding juniper. It's a melting pot of oily, piney flavours with a citrus lozenge-like finish that seemingly never ends. Put it on your short list of gins to try before you die. 58% Alc./Vol. 2017 batch tasted... Clear. Like a creme-de-juniper with one of the most pungent gin bouquets of the year: Wonderfully dense, oily, pure and super-fresh; 2-3 minutes of swirling in the glass releases hints of pine resin, green cardamom, coriander and lemon meringue, the nose only trumped by the whopping delivery: Intense yet with tremendous definition, balance and length; Sappy, piney, peppery, oily-yet-fresh and ultimately, deeply invigorating. Cool mint through the prolonged aftertaste. Juniper to the absolute max.
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Never Never Distilling Co. Triple Juniper Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$68. 99Bottle$827.88 DozenABV: 43%The “Never Never” label speaks of the Australian bush and its people, but also something otherworldly. Established in 2016, the aim of the project is “not just to create delicious spirits, but to make the most flavoursome spirits on the market.” Combining the talents of George Georgiadis, Sean Baxter and Tim Boast, their Triple Juniper gin employs air-freighted berries for maximum freshness. The juniper is treated in three distinct ways, partially steeped, partially in the pot and partially in the vapour. The aim is to capture both the bright and the earthy qualities, and to balance the massive juniper input, a few other botanicals are used: Australian coriander provides brighter citrus and less earthiness than its English or Indian counterparts. A predominate fresh lemon citrus influence with a touch of fresh lime and liquorice adds lift over a root base of angelica and orris. Native pepperberry provides a balancing, savoury element without the heavy menthol finish of traditional peppers. Finally a hint of cinnamon hits just the right amount of warmth. Tasting note: [Batch 1 tasted] Plush and oily, juniper-heavy aromas combine with citrus, fresh sawn pine, coriander, faint anise and white pepper warmth. Follows through with a silky wave of juniper gelato, citrus peel and delicate pepper-cinnamon warmth. Leaner and more linear to finish; the spice and lime pick up where the juniper trails off. Excellent length. 43% Alc./Vol. -
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2019 Never Never Distilling Co. Juniper Freak Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 58%Tasting note: Made from juniper berries air-freighted from North Macedonia to Adelaide. Other gins come close, but the Freak beats them all when it comes to sheer purity, concentration and flavour definition. Juniper and lemon sorbet plus a touch of cool mint are dialed up to near impossible intensity while the finish fuses fresh pine buds with crushed peppercorns. Brilliantly balanced at Navy Strength, the aftertaste is sustained, deep and invigorating. Just like last years, outrageously good. One of the world's great gins. 58% Alc./Vol. -
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Never Never Distilling Co. Dark Series Southern Strength Juniper Freak Gin (500ml)South Australia, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 54%"Dark Series" represents Never Never’s small batch experimental spirits. Over time, the plan is to retain some of these as part of the core range. Others may be one offs. Sub labelled “Juniper Freak”, this high strength edition represents a limited run of just under 200 bottles. Tasting note: [Batch 4 tasted] One of the biggest gin bouquets of the year... Earthy, piney juniper in the most dense form imaginable, backed up by pepper and herbal-menthol freshness. Keeps on giving after 4-5 minutes in the glass with nuances of lime peel and orris root. This saturates the tongue with a creamy, cool-mint fresh, juniper dense attack and a cleansing, drying, super long finish. Mild alcohol flare, with anise cleverly woven through the aftertaste. A juniper bomb. 54% Alc./Vol. -
- Nick's Import
New Amsterdam Straight Gin (1000ml)California, UNITED STATES$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 40%Named for "New Amsterdam", the original European name for New York when under Dutch rule. This is a lighter styled gin with subdued juniper input. Other reviews... For those who prefer a sweet cast to their gins, this one is a winner. The grapefruit-like, almost candy-like scent leads into pleasantly sweet and citrusy flavors, which finish with a faint floral note. Blends particularly well into lightly fruity and citrusy cocktails and gin-based punches. 95 points - www.wineenthusiast.com Clear with a silvery cast. Aromas of frosted orange cake and spiced custard with a fruity medium body and a wisp of lemon verbena, juniper jelly, powdered sugar, and orange gelatin on the finish. Tasty, juniper light gin. International Review of Spirits Award: Silver Medal
RATING: 88 points (Highly Recommended) - www.tastings.com -
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New World Projects Small Batch Korenwijn Seasonal Gin (700ml)Essendon, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 43.5%The latest creation from the New World Projects styles itself on the Dutch origins of Gin. Known as Genever, the chief point of difference to London Dry is the spirit base used in Dutch Gin which, unlike its UK counterparts, is not a completely tasteless neutral grain spirit. Genevers are distilled in pot stills from a mash containing rye, barley and corn which on distillation produces some congeners normally associated with whisky. New World Projects have combined triple distilled malt spirit with a hefty dose of juniper and a light dressing of caraway, aniseed and coriander to balance and add complexity. Bottled at 43.5% to preserve some of the oilier spirit characters the gin shows a more savoury style than most with hints of pine needles and pickles. Tasting note: Clear. Engaging scents of dark rye bread over light white pepper and background piney / juniper. Ovaltine? Soft, well rounded delivery is mildly oily in texture; subtle flavours of caraway infused rye, coriander seed and Fisherman's Friend lozenge are followed by a peppery, dill and green olive accented finish. Impressive length and balance. A delicious and cleverly composed expression of an old world classic - limited to 239 bottles. 43.5% Alc./Vol. -
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No.209 Gin (700ml)San Francisco, California, UNITED STATES$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 46%The Rudd family came up with the original idea for No. 209 Gin. Their background is in wine and fine food - they own both Rudd Oakville Estate Winery and Dean & DeLuca - so meticulous attention to detail and focus on quality is second nature to them. When they embarked upon the exploratory research for this gin endeavor, they assembled a team with sophisticated palates and a passion for excellence, years of alcoholic beverage experience (not simply on the consumption side), youthful exuberance and drive. From the outset, their goal was to make the finest possible gin with care and intelligence for people who think about what they drink.
Depending on who listen to, they've either succeeded or at least come very close. Even Robert Parker, otherwise known exclusively for his wine reviews felt obliged to recommend it in his Hedonist's Gazette! (see below)209 is distilled on a pier over the water in San Francisco’s docks from 11 botanicals including bergamot orange peel from Southern Italy and more usual gin botanicals such as Guatemalan cardamom, Chinese cassia, coriander, Angelica root and, of course, Italian juniper berries. Ideal clarity showing good viscosity. Lemon gelato opening sniffs give way to lifted piney, woody aromas - in a word - classic juniper. Aeration adds further interest with hints of smokey cardamom, faint liquorice root and white pepper. Creamy entry follows through with a nicely weighted lemon mousse/ juniper and pepper profile. Finish is lively, fresh, peppery and downright moreish. Fades mildly piney with juniper and lemon peel in the aftertaste. Reserve some for the coming Spring/Summer - if you can! 46%Alc.Vol.
Other reviews...The nosing passes find generous notes of citrus zest, juniper berry, orris root, licorice, coriander and angelica. The palate entry is bittersweet, intensely grainy and speckled with licorice and orris root; at midpalate the flavor turns delightfully herbal. Finish is decidedly herbal/leafy/seed-like and, finally, bittersweet. An adult gin with an adventurous attitude. 90-95 points -wineenthusiast.com
...No. 209 Gin has formulated what it believes to be the first Kosher-for-Passover Gin…The resulting gin?...more subtle herbal aromas and more evident warm spice flavors. Different, but only slightly.” – San Francisco Chronicle, Jon Bonne
...I rarely drink hard liquor, but I must say this was the smoothest gin I have ever had. Served straight up and ice cold, it was pretty amazing…. – The Hedonist Gazette, Robert Parker
5+ Stars - diffordguide.com
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Noble Bootleggers Christmas Pudding Gin (500ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%Tasting note: [Batch 2] Following Four Pillars lead comes another gin for the festive season. The label sums it up: Deeply coloured, with aromas redolent of fruit mince pie and traditional Christmas pudding, on the palate, the gin base keeps it fresh and balanced, finishing on a succulent note with juicy fruit cake and baking spice flavours. Try it with ginger ale. 40% Alc./Vol. -
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Noble Bootleggers Contemporary Gin (500ml)Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 40%Noble Bottleggers is the creation of husband and wife team, Dan and Kristin Lemura. After working in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, they've been at the helm of some of Melbourne's finest establishments. Along the way they became obsessed with barrel aging cocktails, spirits and liqueurs. This obsession for taking both modern and classic cocktails and reinventing them evolved into the Noble Bootleggers Distilling Co. Juniper, lemon aspen, angelica root, coriander seed, lemon verbena and vanilla make up the botanical mix in this 'Contemporary' gin. Tasting note: [Batch 1] Clear. Fairly typical London Dry with earthy juniper, angelica root, pepper and coriander over background citrus freshness. Creamy entry with soft juniper, herbal tea and citrus peel flavours lingering in a tangy, warming finish. Nice all-rounder. 40% Alc./Vol.
We're serious about gin.
Distilleries both small and large from every continent on earth can now lay claim to a Gin. You could be cynical and suggest it's merely to maintain cash flow while more 'serious' barrel aged spirits mature. Gin is easy and cheap. After all, it's just flavoured vodka at the end of the day, right? That line of thinking misrepresents all this spirit can be in the hands of visionaries and fanatics. The freshest botanicals in high quality alcohol result in an exotic amalgam of accents and supporting notes that no white spirit can match. Perfumed complexity and bracing intensity are not the characteristics of every gin we taste - hence, it can't be that easy to achieve. From Navy Strength to organic to sloe gin, browse our range today. A long departure from the once "fuddy-duddy" association of the genre, Vickers, Gordon's and other ubiquitous brands are threatened to be swallowed in a giant yawn by the progressive, quality-savvy new-gin devotee. Trending classifications such as 'New Western' style (juniper evident but not dominant) are gaining prominence as are the use of indigenous botanicals and varied spirit bases, including non-grain. Barrel ageing is also gaining momentum. The vast improvement in quality has resulted in texture rich, neat/sipping friendly spirits. Yet, the traditional English and Dutch styles remain more relevant than ever in honouring the cocktail classics. Learn more today... Click here to learn more about Gin, alternatively, browse our wide range of spirits, wines and more online today. When you buy from us, you'll find the biggest and best selection, from barrel-aged or sloe gin to organic options and a diverse array of brand names. We also taste and rate many of the gins to further guide you in your purchase.















































