Small batch label wins big at Gin Distillers Awards

Theatre nurses and distillers Megan Coffey and Kate Gibney. 

A small batch distillery nestled in rural Towen Mountain founded by two nurses, has been recognised at the recent 2022 Australian Gin Distillers Association Awards.

Kate Gibney and Megan Coffey only launched Steampunk Distillery in July last year but have already been recognised nationally for their Gin and Vodka.

Steampunk Distillery won two Silver and a Bronze award for the three Gins submitted to the Australian Gin Distillers Association Awards under Classic Dry Gin, Contemporary Style Gin and Over Proof/Navy Gin.

Megan said the awards meant a great deal to the relative beginners. “This is fantastic validation for our efforts, ultimately it is the ongoing and positive feedback from our customers who have found us and our spirits which gives the greatest joy,” she said.

Kate said the pair enjoyed experimenting with new flavours and incorporating botanicals from their property, and from local producers.

“Now spring is here, we have the return of our Rhuby Myrtle Pink Gin, a fan favourite. We keep this gin seasonal, so we can incorporate locally grown handpicked botanicals, and avoid using colour enhancers or fixatives for a pale blushing pink. 

“Connection to our community and quality of our product is highly important to us.”

Steampunk Distillery has a gin or vodka to suit most palates, five of which are staple. The range includes ‘Matron’ (Navy) Gin, Rhuby Myrtle Gin, Lemon Eucalypt Gin, Dry Gin, CardaBOM Gin, Vodka, Kaffir and Ardent Vodka. The nurse distillers also produce Limoncello, another fan favourite.

“All of our spirits are grape based, with our vodka fermented from grape concentrate,” said Kate. “We distill the vodka three times to produce an incredibly delicious, smooth, clean taste.”

Steampunk is a craft micro-distillery, meaning it only produces 35-100 bottles at a  time. It offers a rural tasting experience tucked away in Towen Mountain.

In addition to this year’s recognition, Kate and Megan were awarded Silver at last year’s Australian Distilled Spirits Awards for their Lemon Eucalypt Gin and Vodka.

Steampunk Distillery Vodkas and Gins are locally stocked at 1887 Bottleshop in Nambour and Yandina. You can also enjoy them at Frankies Woombye, Rick’s Garage and Chew Chew Bistro in Palmwoods. The range is also available at select independent bottle shops and bars on the Sunshine Coast.

• You can buy Steampunk Distillery products online at www.steampunkdistillery.com.au, or visit the distillery for a tasting, by appointment on steampunkdistillery.au@gmail.com