Just beyond the garden gate, where wisteria vines intertwine with weathered fences and sunlight dances through native saplings, Backyard Gin was born. In the heart of our lifestyle block, towering rimu and tōtara stand guard while kawakawa leaves rustle secrets on the breeze. Here, amidst citrus groves heavy with zest and herb beds spilling over with rosemary, mint, and thyme, we gather nature’s bounty at dawn, when dew still clings to each leaf. Our process is as resourceful as Kiwi ingenuity itself: we steam-distil these fresh botanicals – rimu’s gentle timber, tōtara’s subtle resin, kawakawa’s peppery warmth, the bright tang of oranges and limes, the cool whisper of backyard eucalyptus, and a bouquet of garden herbs – over a whey-based neutral spirit. The vapours rise in gleaming copper stills, echoing the crackle of nearby firewood, capturing each flavour in crystal-clear London Dry style. At a balanced 45% ABV, Backyard Gin delivers a punch that’s as honest as a midday breeze through gum trees, followed by a lingering tapestry of delicate nuances. In every sip, you’ll taste the sunlit glow of citrus, the soft embrace of native woods, and the peppery spark of kawakawa, all woven together like a wild garden in full bloom. Whether crowned with tonic and lime, lifted with soda, or savoured neat over a single ice block, Backyard Gin transports you to that fragrant orchard at the edge of the bush. Raise your glass and toast the spirit of homegrown adventure – because the best journeys often start right in your own backyard.
