The Spirit of the Southern Great Barrier Reef has landed in time for Spring!
Posted on September 18th, 2023
The Capricorn Coast’s clean, salty air, relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, and strong community values have executed the perfect location to produce some of the world’s finest gin and vodka.
Injected with a bountiful supply of locally sourced botanicals infused with endless passion, Reef Distillers has been born via the harmonious collaboration, enthusiasm, and craftsmanship between two talented families – the Smiths and the Rumbles.
Embarking on a new chapter which continues to embrace their love for the sea and the environment, Pumpkin Island’s Laureth and Wayne Rumble have united their experience of running Great Barrier Reef Island resorts with the artistry of distillation. They have joined forces with award-winning distillers, Shane, and Zona Smith from West Coast Distillers in South Africa, whose dedication to producing exceptional spirits has garnered international acclaim.
Delivering a true ‘paddock to still’ micro distillery, Reef Distillers is proud to celebrate the diversity and splendor of the world’s most famous marine ecosystem, its glorious inhabitants, and the incredible places we get to call home, incorporating local suppliers, farmers, and native flora to create a unique and stylish product that is soon to be the flavour on everyone’s lips.
Recently receiving their food license to bottle and liquor license to manufacture, Reef Distillers are ready to launch their signature collection this Spring, sharing the first of their many splashes which present layers of flavours mirroring the reef’s breathtaking essence in every bottle.
Great Barrier Dry Gin, Coral Sea Gin, Pacific Ocean Vodka and Capricorn Rosella Vodka was bottled for the official launch on 18th September.
Raising a glass to the wonders of nature and the pursuit of great spirits, Laureth is excited to share the first of many splashes with Gin and Vodka lovers.
“We have been working hard behind the scenes for some time now to produce the tastes and experiences that make us feel alive, happy and blessed to be part of such an incredible community,” Laureth said.
“We have collaborated with local producers across the Capricorn Coast including Ross and Dan from High Valley Dawn Permaculture Farm, as well as utilising some of the fruit and lemongrass homegrown at our Byfield farm, to infuse the collection with certified organic and spray free botanicals.”
“Our partnership with Shane and Zona has been a labor of love, successfully capturing the unique flavours and aromas of the Capricorn Coast and creating spirits that celebrate the rich tapestry of our surroundings,” Laureth said.
By appointment, the Distillery, located on Pineapple Drive in Hidden Valley, offers an intimate space where visitors can explore the range of spirits, learn about the craft of distilling, and immerse themselves in the stories that have shaped Reef Distillers.
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll extends her congratulations to both the Smith and Rumble family on the launch of Reef Distillers, thrilled to welcome another new business which will further enhance the Capricorn Coast and Southern Great Barrier Reef.
“With Reef Distillers joining Crimson Finch and YEPP Brewing in the micro beverage market, we have no doubt that Yeppoon’s reputation as a thriving taste sensation will continue to grow and place us firmly on the map for both connoisseurs and adventurous travelers,” Mary said.
“Reef Distillers will join the Taste Capricorn Coast initiative, which brings together our colourful array of producers, eateries, retail outlets, markets and farm experiences, and Capricorn Enterprise looks forward to supporting the Smith and Rumble family with their endeavours.”
Taster packs featuring the four spirits will be available for purchase online, and Reef Distillers will be looking to host a range of events including cocktail workshops or tastings with Shane offering demonstrations on request.
Chill your tonic and soda and head to www.reefdistillers.com to discover your next drop.
