Australia produces a large selection of quality wines, and with the recent resurgence of craft breweries in the country our beers are coming ahead in leaps and bounds as well. Sadly though, the same can't be said of spirits and liqueurs. The market is dominated by big name imports, and choice is limited.
But for those of us lucky enough to live in Brisbane there is the Tamborine Mountain Distillery.
Little more than an hour from the city in the picturesque Gold Coast Hinterland the Tamborine Mountain Distillery is a small family run business with a focus on quality and inventiveness. They have a huge range of products drawn from local and native ingredients, anything from wild plum brandy through to choc 'n' chilli Liqueur. They do a selection of tasting of your choice for a $5 fee, although this is waived if you make a purchase. Bottles are between $40 and $70.
In keeping with the mountains European vibe the distillery is housed in a Tudor style country cottage. The bar is manned by the friendly, passionate and eccentric owners Michael and Alla Ward, who are more than willing to stop and chat about their products. Despite being Australia's smallest operating pot still distillery, they are now the most internationally awarded distillery in the country. All right on your doorstep.
They are located at 87-91 Beacon Road North Tamborine, just off Main Street.
