Why we’re loving these gins + vodka, and some fun cocktail recipes to match.
We’re all about supporting local producers here at The Fold, and when one of those providers happens to be an awesome distillery like Millsheds then you can’t fault us for needing to stock up on a bottle or two, can you?
And to get the most out of each drop, we’ve decided to get educated on all the important tasting notes about some of their very special gin + vodka and then follow it up by making ourselves a couple of cocktails using them… all in the name of research, of course!
Ok, class has started – let’s get learning… hiccup.
1 // Highland Vodka
This baby is a premium, double-distilled vodka that has been carbon filtered, so when it goes down, it’s silky smooth and as refreshing as a cold shower on a scorching summer’s day. It has hints of citrus with a spiced finish that’s playful on the old taste buds. It’s a 38.5% strength vodka but is so good you can actually sip it straight up, but it’s also ideal for a fun fruity cocktail like…
The Highlands Strawberry Vodka Lemonade
Ingredients (serves 2)
- 8 ripe and juicy strawberries.
- 60mls lemon juice
- 3 tbsp of sugar
- 60 mls Highlands Vodka
- 1 cup of cold water
- Lemon for garnishing
At the bottom of a jug, muddle [smash] the fresh strawberries. Add the lemon juice, sugar and water to the jug. Mix until the sugar has dissolved. Add the vodka and then stir until it’s all combined. Taste and add more sugar, lemon, water [or vodka, hehe] to your liking. Garnish with a slice of lemon or some basil if you have any handy.
Sweet like a Highland’s summer, we love this for a long lazy arvo in the garden.
2 // Highland Gin
Gin is really having a moment in the Highlands and we are more than here for it. This incredible gin is made with 16 different botanicals that are all very unique. When combined you get a drop that’s complex but very lovable [like us, really]. On your first sip, you should be able to taste florals like lavender and rose petals, followed by notes of citrus, earthy cassia bark and cardamom. The finish is spicy, thanks to the native pepper berry and myrtle… sooo it’s basically a party in your mouth every time you drink.
3 // Southern Dry Gin
This is a Southern Highlands take on the London Dry style of gin. Using 9 botanicals, it’s bright and crisp like a Highlands autumn morning. Just like the Highlands Gin expect a spicy finish with strong hints of juniper and cardamon. As you sip, you’ll also taste lemon and lime as well as allspice, lemongrass and nutmeg. This is your go-to for G&Ts but is also a great cocktail mixer.
Our cocktail pick for the gins is…
A Merri Gin-spresso Martini
Ingredients (serves 2)
- 60ml Highland Gin or Southern Dry Gin
- 30ml fresh espresso
- 15ml coffee liqueur
- 1 tbsp caramel sauce
- Coffee bean and choccy curls for garnishing
Add gin, coffee liqueur and some ice to a cocktail shaker. In a separate container mix the salted caramel sauce and fresh espresso. It works best if the espresso is a little warm so the caramel sauce can dissolve. Once the sauce and espresso are mixed well, add them to the cocktail shaker and shake, shake, shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a coffee bean and some choccy curls.
A tummy-warming, heart-starting, pick me up… perfect for winter nights by the fire.
Ok, class is over now gang, time to get the party started!
Luckily we know a good cocktail recipe!
For more info about these spirits as well as some of the other amazing tipples available at Millsheds, head over to their website to take a look.
Millsheds is located in the heart of The Mill [210-224 Bong Bong Street in Bowral]. The distillery + courtyard + deck are all areas you can access and enjoy what Millsheds has to offer. You can also have some {delicious!] fun with their tours, tastings and masterclasses. If you’re in the modd for a cocktail after reading this? You MUST check out their Master the Art of Cocktails – A Mixology Adventure masterclass. Cheers!
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