Old tom takes out top honour

BALLARAT’S Kilderkin Distillery has won top honours at this year’s Australian Gin Awards for their Larrikin’s Grin old tom gin.

The gin, which was released earlier this year, won best in class against distilleries from Australia and New Zealand.

The awards were hosted by the Australian Gin Distillers Association to recognise excellence in local gin production.

“We are immensely proud to have won best in class for our Old Tom gin,” said distillery co-owner Chris Pratt.

“This recognition is a testament to our team’s hard work and passion for creating exceptional gin.”

Larrikin’s Grin pays tribute to the old tom gin style which has a slightly sweet flavour from malted barley.

It includes notes of classic juniper and botanicals such as cassia root and citrus.

The gin was stored in a barrel, paying tribute to the way the spirit was delivered across England in the 18th century.

“We followed tradition where we could and made up the rest,” said distillery co-owner Rebecca Matthews.

“Since we lack a horse-cart, we transported our barrel in the Larrikin van during errands.

“We even secured special permission from the ATO excise section to remove it from the bond on the condition that we return the barrel at the end of each day, making it perhaps the only gin with a curfew.”

Larrikin’s Grin also recently won a gold medal from the Gin Buyers Guide blind tasting after 24 industry professionals awarded the spirit a score of 96 out of 100.

“These accolades not only honour the history and craftsmanship of gin itself but also Ballarat’s rich distilling heritage,” said Mr Pratt.

“We are excited to carry forward this tradition, sharing our premium, handcrafted gins with enthusiasts locally and across the nation.”