The 2024 Australian Gin Awards, held at Ester Spirits in Sydney on September 5th, saw a strong showing from New Zealand’s Bluff Distillery, which claimed both Best in Class for Classic Dry and Best in Show.
Bluff Distillery, a relatively new entrant to the market, impressed judges with its classic London Dry Gin, described as “beautifully balanced” with “exceptional integration of botanicals.” This victory signifies the distillery’s commitment to traditional gin production and its ability to compete on an international stage.
Variety and Innovation
The awards highlighted the diversity and creativity within the Australian gin industry. West Australian Juniper Society’s Chilli and Rose gin, a product of Old Young’s, took home Best in Class for Contemporary Gin, showcasing the brand’s dedication to monthly innovation. Cauldron Distillery’s Christmas Gin (Barrel Aged) was awarded Best in Class for Matured Gin for its exceptional balance of botanicals and oak.
Other notable winners included Kilderkin Distillery’s Larrikin’s Gin Old Tom for Best in Class for Old Tom Gin and Wildflower Gin Distillery’s Navy Strength Gin for Best in Class for Overproof Gin. Wildflower’s win was particularly special, as it recognized the work of their newest distiller, Ed, whose first gin creation was met with critical acclaim.
Flavored Gin on the Rise
In the Traditional Gin Liqueurs category, Imperial Measures Distilling’s Ounce Gin ‘Shiraz’ took the top spot. The Flavoured Gin category, a testament to the industry’s ongoing innovation, was awarded to Little Stiller Distillery’s Pink Gin. Australian Gin Awards Ambassador, Charles Casben, emphasized the importance of flavored gin in attracting new consumers and allowing for creative expression within the industry.
Quality and Design
Awards Chairman Mikey Enright noted a significant improvement in quality across all categories, particularly in the Contemporary Style Gin class, where eleven Gold medals were awarded.
Finally, Harrington Bjugard Distilling’s Dry Gin won the Packaging Award for its classic smoked glass bottle and mid-century modern design.
The 2024 Australian Gin Awards showcased the high quality and diversity of gin production in Australia. The awards celebrate the talent and creativity of Australian distillers, while also highlighting the increasing popularity and innovation within the gin category.
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