Celebrate World Gin Day
- Written by Claire Bonney
BOUTIQUE TASMANIAN DISTILLERY IN HIGH SPIRITS AFTER TAKING OUT TOP INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR SECOND YEAR IN A ROW
Family owned and operated Shene Estate & Distillery (Shene) has become the first ever Tasmanian distillery to take out a consecutive Double Gold Medal at the prized San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC).
Renowned in the industry for its integrity and impartiality, the SFWSC has earned its place as one of the most respected and influential spirits competitions in the world. The coveted Double Gold Medal is awarded to the very few entries that receive Gold Medal ratings by all members of the judging panel, described by SFWSC as “among the finest products in the world”.
Shene’s Poltergeist Gin – Unfiltered, which graces top-shelves at some of Australia’s finest establishments including Bennelong Restaurant at Sydney Opera House, Dan Hunter’s Brae restaurant in Victoria, and Hobart’s Mona, received top honours from a pool of more than 2,200 spirits worldwide.
Shene also received a Gold Medal for its Mackey Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky, and a Silver Medal for its Poltergeist Gin – A True Spirit.
Shene’s Brand Ambassador, Myfanwy Kernke, said winning a consecutive Double Gold Medal was an honour.
“To receive a Gold Medal rating by all 48 members of the judging panel two years running is a win we share with the entire Team Shene, who pour their hearts and souls into creating a product they truly believe in,” Myfanwy said.
“We are incredibly proud that our humble gin is taking the world by storm while remaining true to its craft roots.
“It’s business-as-usual for us, but you can count on an extra spring in our step at the roadside store each Sunday.”
The Kernke family became custodians of the iconic 19th century heritage Shene Estate in 2006 and began their conservation efforts in 2007 ahead of launching the distillery in 2016, which now proudly hosts four copper pot stills including Tasmania’s largest at 4,500 litre capacity.
Their Poltergeist products reflect the confluence of old and new, creating spirits infused with new flavours and experiences while preserving the essence of traditional distillation practices and drawing influence from the native environment.
“What makes Poltergeist truly special is that we can guarantee its craft and personal handling, from distilling to bottling, labelling and even selling in the simplicity of our roadside stall every Sunday,” Myfanwy said.
“We have stayed true to Shene’s rich heritage, using only copper pot stills and mixing native botanicals like Tasmanian pepperberry with macadamias as a throwback to growing up in Queensland, plus international spices to create a big, bold and beautiful taste.”
Through Poltergeist, Myfanwy said the Kernke family was able to share Shene’s rich and colourful history while breathing new life into the iconic heritage buildings once again.
“We’re demonstrating how heritage can adapt for its survival,” Myfanwy said.
“While the property was previously recognised only for its architectural beauty, our craft spirits give this beautiful, majestic historical site a chance to have its own voice and future.”
Shene’s award-winning craft products are available to purchase online at shene.com.au.
ABOUT SHENE ESTATE & DISTILLERY
Prior to the Kernke family taking custodianship of the heritage site in 2006, the iconic Shene Estate had never been open to the general public; its buildings and history collecting dust with crumbling foundations and a fading spirit. Today, four generations of the Kernke family are passionate about sharing the stories of Shene’s rich and colourful past by throwing open the doors and breathing life once again into Shene’s stone.
Shene Estate was originally the ostentatious country residence of early colonialist Gamaliel Butler and its history has direct links with King George III and Governor Lachlan Macquarie. Today, in addition to being home to the Kernke Family, it is also home to the Shene Estate Distillery.
ABOUT THE SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION
Renowned in the industry for its integrity and impartiality, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) has become one of the most respected and influential spirits competitions in the world. SFWSC was founded in 2000 as a way to recognise exceptional products in the spirits industry. Winning at SFWSC has frequently been a game-changer for brands.
Products awarded a Gold Medal are exceptional. They are near the pinnacle of achievement in their particular category; products that set the standard for all others of their type. The Double Gold designation is awarded to the very few entries that receive Gold Medal ratings by all members of the judging panel. These are among the finest products in the world.
Daily Bulletin
