Words by Aidy (@sypped)
Fresh out from McLaren Vales’ Chalk Hill Wines is this rather curiosity-piquing new gin. Having tasted Chapel Down’s Bacchus Gin before, which was absolutely lovely and made a mean martini, this new release is all rather exciting. Before you get too excited, I don’t want to disappoint you – it has all sold out. So, this is really more of a ‘discovery’ article. (There’s nothing worse than reading the whole thing with intent to purchase then being bitterly disappointed).
Named ‘Ginache’, because, well, yes. The grenache grapes were picked from Chalk Hill’s Slate Creek vineyards in a plot planted by the family in 1897. Considering they’ve been growing this grape variety for generations, I’m willing to assume its pretty good quality.
Never Never Distilling are their partners in crime who are taking the spirit from grape to gin and they are no stranger to this particular category either. Priding themselves with their ‘Triple Juniper’ method. Like me you may be thinking ‘erm, okay, what is Triple Juniper?’. Well, thankfully I can tell you. They steep juniper for 24 hours, then add it to the still with MORE fresh juniper prior to pot distillation. Finally, as if there wasn’t enough juniper, more is added to the vapour basket to capture the fresh and floral characteristics. There you go. Juniper, juniper, juniper.
Cherry red in colour, Ginache is bursting with red meadow fruits, rose petals and cinnamon. A sip offers both a sweet and spicy combination with coriander, juniper and sour cherry jumping out from the grenache element. Apparently your favourite rich tonic and a slice of orange will get the most out of it.
Since the harvest was so small less than 2,500 bottles were created with only 150 bottles sold online (what a tease!). Most of these have sold out, but a few will be sold at the distillery when it re-opens in the coming months. So yeh, you can still get one – you just have to go to Australia. Don’t forget your facemask.
Size: 500ml
ABV: 38%
Price: $80 AUS
Buy from the Never Never Distillery