A Gin Lover’s Journey: Discovering Australia’s Best Gins
Australia’s gin scene has exploded in recent years, with local distillers crafting unique, high-quality spirits that showcase native botanicals. The good news is, around 20% of all gin bought by Australians is now from a local brand.
Whether you prefer a classic London dry style or something bold and experimental, there’s an Australian gin for you.
Visiting a local distiller for a tasting is a great way to try something new, while supporting local industry.
We’ve traveled across the country, from the lush rainforests of Byron Bay to the rugged coasts of Tasmania, in search of the best gins Australia has to offer. Here are the standouts that deserve a spot on every gin lover’s shelf.
📷 Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin
Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin.
Yarra Valley, VIC
Arguably Australia’s most famous gin, Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin is a must-try. Distilled in Victoria’s Yarra Valley, this gin blends traditional botanicals with uniquely Australian ingredients like Tasmanian pepperberry and lemon myrtle, creating a smooth and aromatic spirit perfect for a G&T or Negroni.
Visit the Four Pillars Distillery, 2 Lilydale Rd, Healesville VIC
Discover more at fourpillarsgin.com
📷 Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin
Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin.
Byron Bay, NSW
Crafted in the lush Byron Bay hinterland, Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin is a rainforest-inspired delight. Featuring 25 botanicals, including native aniseed myrtle and river mint, this gin captures the essence of its coastal surroundings.
Visit Cape Byron Distillery at 80 St Helena Road, McLeods Shoot NSW
Discover more at capebyrondistillery.com
📷 Never Never Triple Juniper Gin
Never Never Triple Juniper Gin.
McLaren Vale, SA
A gin for true juniper lovers, Never Never’s Triple Juniper Gin delivers a bold and complex flavour profile. Made in South Australia, this gin undergoes three stages of juniper infusion, resulting in a rich, piney character that’s perfect for martinis or sipping neat.
Visit the Never Never Distillery at 56 Field St, McLaren Vale SA
Discover more at neverneverdistilling.com.au
📷 Archie Rose Distillers Strength Gin
Archie Rose Distiller’s Strength Gin.
Sydney, NSW
Sydney-based Archie Rose Distilling Co. has made a name for itself with innovative spirits, and its Distiller’s Strength Gin is no exception. Featuring native sunrise lime, Dorrigo pepperleaf, and fresh pear, this full-bodied gin is a flavour bomb with a citrusy and spicy kick.
Visit the Archie Rose Distillery at 85 Dunning Ave, Rosebery NSW
Discover more at archierose.com.au
📷 Kangaroo Island Spirits Wild Gin
Kangaroo Island Spirits Wild Gin.
Kangaroo Island, SA
Distilled on the stunning Kangaroo Island, this gin showcases the region’s natural beauty through its use of native juniper (myoporum insulare). Earthy and herbaceous, it’s a distinctive gin that highlights the unique Australian landscape.
Visit the Kangaroo Island Spirits Cellar Door at 856 Playford Hwy, Cygnet River SA
Discover more at kangarooislandspirits.com.au
Image: West Winds Cutlass Gin
West Winds Cutlass Gin.
Cowaramup, WA
Life’s about reinterpretation, refinement… And having fun en route. Australia’s most awarded gin, the Cutlass is an unashamedly savoury New World take on a London Dry Gin that introduces uniquely Australian aromatic. Made with Australian bush tomato and cinnamon myrtle, delivering a bold and savoury spirit.
Visit the West Winds Distillery at 29 Hasluck St, Cowaramup WA
Discover more at westwindsdistillers.com
📷 Forty Spotted Citrus & Pepperberry Gin
Forty Spotted Citrus & Pepperberry Gin.
Hobart, TAS
If you love a citrus-forward gin with a bit of spice, Forty Spotted Citrus & Pepperberry Gin is an absolute must-try. This gin takes the bright, zesty notes of Australian citrus and layers them with the warmth of native pepperberry, creating a bold and refreshing profile. It’s perfect in a G&T with a slice of lime or in a summery gin spritz. Tasmania continues to prove itself as a powerhouse for craft spirits, and this gin is a shining example.
Try a gin tasting flight at The Still, 30 Argyle St, Hobart TAS
Discover more at fortyspotted.com
📷 Manly Spirits Lilly Pilly Gin
Manly Spirits Lilly Pilly Gin.
Sydney, NSW
Manly Spirits, Lilly Pilly Pink Gin features locally foraged lilly pilly berries, native limes, and blood orange for a bright and slightly sweet profile. Its pink hue makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Visit the Manly Spirits Cellar Door at 4A/9-13 Winbourne Rd, Brookvale NSW
Discover more at manlyspirits.com.au
📷 Ink Gin
Ink Gin.
Tweed Valley, NSW
If there’s one gin that never fails to impress guests, it’s Ink Gin. Infused with butterfly pea flowers, it starts out deep blue and magically turns pink when mixed with tonic. But it’s not just about looks—Ink Gin is smooth, floral, and slightly spicy, making it a fun and flavorful choice for cocktails.
Discover more at inkgin.com
Cheers!
Australia’s gin scene is thriving, with distillers embracing native ingredients to create world-class spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just starting to explore, these Australian-made gins are essential additions to your collection. Grab a bottle, mix up a cocktail, and experience the best of Aussie gin.