In the rich and diverse world of gin, the Yardarm Distilled Gin from Hurdle Creek Still stands out as a robust and flavorful example of a New World spirit infused with character. Crafted in the King Valley region of Victoria, Australia, Yardarm Gin brings together traditional gin botanicals with unique local ingredients, resulting in a spirit that appeals to both gin purists and adventurous drinkers alike. With its distinctive blend of classics and native flavors, this gin embodies innovation, quality, and craftsmanship from a family-run distillery that prides itself on small-batch production and deep respect for place.
Origins and Distillation Process
A Family-Run Distillery in Victoria
Hurdle Creek Still is a boutique, family-owned distillery nestled in the King Valley gourmet food region of Victoria. Known for producing its own base spirit from barley, rather than relying on externally sourced grain alcohol, the distillery takes pride in its craft. Using a traditional infusion mashing system and a copper-and-glass column still, the team has created a spirit that balances smooth grain character with bold botanical expression
Vapour Infusion and Local Botanicals
The Yardarm Gin is vapour infused, a method that gently captures delicate aromatics while preserving clarity and finesse. The core botanical mix includes juniper, coriander, angelica, and cassia bark the classic backbone of gin. But what sets it apart are its citrus notes from orange peel, lime leaves, lemon myrtle, a spicy zing from pink peppercorns, textured hop flowers, and additional layers from cardamom
Tasting Profile and Aromatics
Flavor Journey with Every Sip
When poured neat or in a gin and tonic, Yardarm Gin reveals complex layers. The nose presents bright citrus and warm spice, while the palate hints at herbal depth. Tasting notes often include peppery, citrus, and malt-like undertones thanks to its barley base and hop infusion a finish described as both dry and smooth
A Versatile Spirit
Despite its bold flavors, Yardarm maintains versatility across cocktails. It works brilliantly in a classic gin and tonic garnished with lime or rosemary, adapts to a clean martini, and even stands up in richer cocktails like a dirty martini or gimlet
Serving Suggestions and Cocktails
Classic Gin and Tonic
- Pour Yardarm Gin over plenty of ice
- Add premium tonic water
- Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic lift
Martini or Dirty Martini
According to the distillery’s recommended serve, combine 2½ measures of Yardarm Gin with ½ measure dry vermouth, stir with ice, and garnish with olives one or three, never two to craft a sleek, flavorful martini
Creative Modern Cocktails
Gin Rickey, Gimlet, Ginsecco, or even a caipirinha are all refreshing ways to highlight the gin’s citrus and spice. Its versatility allows for experimentation across classic and creative serves
Availability and Pricing
Yardarm Distilled Gin is available in several sizes 50ml, 350ml, and 700ml with a suggested retail price around 85 AUD for the 700ml bottle
Reputation and Reviews
High Praise from Critics
Users and reviewers often highlight Yardarm Gin for its pronounced aromatics and bold style. One reviewer called it one of the best gins I’ve ever smelt and tasted, praising its vibrant nose and flavor complexity
Locals Recommend the Distillery Visit
Tripadvisor reviewers suggest visiting Hurdle Creek Still for those keen on flavorful, locally crafted gin experiences calling it worth seeking out for gin lovers wishing to explore beyond mainstream labels
Innovative Distillery and Broader Range
Yardarm Gin is considered the flagship release from Hurdle Creek Still. The distillery also experiments with signature spirits like Powder Monkey Navy Strength Gin, Grain Jenever, Cherry Gin, and dark cacao liqueur often crafted using local produce like cherries and cocoa nibs, emphasizing regional character and small-batch innovation
Why Choose Yardarm Gin?
- Small-batch craftsmanship with homegrown raw materials
- Traditional distillation combined with uniquely Australian botanicals
- Delivering elevated experience in both classic and innovative cocktails
- Strong critical acclaim and consumer loyalty
Hurdle Creek Yardarm Gin captures the heart of what modern gin should be: crafted, bold, and rooted in locality. Its barley-based spirit, vapour-infused botanicals, and citrus-spice harmony create a gin that appeals both to those seeking a twist on tradition and to traditionalists themselves. Whether enjoyed in a crisp gin and tonic, a dry martini, or a crafted cocktail, Yardarm Gin offers depth, complexity, and a taste of Victoria’s distilling ingenuity. If you’re exploring New World gins with character and craftsmanship, this spirit is well worth discovering.
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