It has been a massive week for South Australian gin makers and spirit enthusiasts alike. There will no doubt be some sore heads around the country this morning.
Yesterday Adelaide distillery, Red Hen Gin wowed the judges at The Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (ADSA) and took home the award for “Champion Small Batch Gin“. A pretty sweet win for the guys considering Red Hen is still in it’s infancy, operating commercially now for less than a year.
Entries are blind tasted and judged on their own merit (how do I get this this job?), not in comparison to other gins. Tastings are scored using an internationally recognised 100 point scoring system based on palate, balance, colour/appearance, nose and finish. Winners are then broken down further into gold, bronze and silver medalists. Those lucky enough to make it through with gold then enter another nail-biting round to uncover the one true champion.
You might remember Red Hen Gin made waves last year when they opened their distillery in Adelaide’s CBD – the first of its kind around town. But for Luke Page and the Vallelonga brothers – Michael, Daniel and Anthony – it was something like an expensive hobby with only dreams of Red Hen becoming what it is today. The guys manufacture and bottle the gin all on the same premises which keep the small-batch craft spirit completely local and personal. They use a vapour-infused London Dry style method to create a uniquely refined and delicate flavour that’s insanely good.
An honourable mention also goes out to Adelaide Hills Distillery for winning ‘Champion Liqueur’ for ‘The Italian’.
Other ADSA prize categories include:
- Champion Whisky
- Champion Gin
- Champion Vodka
- Champion Brandy
- Champion Alternative Spirit
- Champion Aromatic Bitters
- Champion Micro Batch Spirit
For those uninitiated, The Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (ADSA) is Australia’s only national spirits competition focusing on Australian-manufactured spirits. Recognising the long tradition of distilling in Australia as well as the new generation of emerging spirits and liqueur producers, the Awards provide Australian distillers with an essential benchmarking opportunity. Created in close consultation with industry experts, including Executive Committee members of the Australian Distillers Association, the Awards are reflective of the burgeoning industry, increased consumer interest and market trends, and highlight the innovation and excellence demonstrated by Australian distillers. The awards are judged by Australia’s leading experts in spirits and liqueurs from across the industry.
Unfortunately, much to my disappointment, I still haven’t been asked to be an official judge.
A huge congrats to Red Hen Gin and all of the other amazing winners. Keep up the good work for discerning drinkers like us.
If you’re looking for the full list of winners to track down, check the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards website.
Now go give the Red Hen lads a congrats on Facebook and Instagram.
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