The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges in Victoria, Australia, are home to a vibrant community of distilleries, offering a diverse range of high-quality gins infused with native botanicals, fresh citrus, and exotic spices. Noteworthy among these is the Four Pillars Distillery in Healesville, which has gained international acclaim for its gins and provides various experiences such as masterclasses for creating personalized blends. Another standout distillery is GinFinity in Belgrave, known for its small-batch distilled gins featuring unique Australian botanicals, including a bubblegum-flavored gin that won at the World Gin Awards 2022. Adjacent to Ginfinity is Kilik Handcrafted Rum, offering an additional local option for rum enthusiasts.
Further enriching the spirits scene in the region is Alchemy Distillers in Healesville, producing vodka, gin, and whisky using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. Despite the current closure of their cellar door, plans are in place to open a new retail and tasting space soon. Morgans Winery and Distillery in Seville stands out as one of two whey spirit producers in Australia, utilizing whey from local cheese makers to craft a variety of spirits. Yarra Valley Whiskey, based in Healesville, specializes in bespoke dark liquors, with single barrel whisky and rum aging and gin and cane spirit also available. Lastly, Dusty Barrel Distillery in Macclesfield focuses on small-batch dry gins, with future releases anticipated to complement their current online offering.
These distilleries play a significant role in the growing distilling culture of the Yarra Ranges and Dandenong Ranges, alongside the renowned wineries and breweries in the area. Visitors are encouraged to explore these establishments and appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity behind the unique offerings of each distillery.