Not sure how to spend your weekend on the Glitter Strip? A visit to one of these Gold Coast distilleries is sure to lift your spirits (pun intended).
Capricorn Distilling Co, Burleigh Heads
You can taste Capricorn’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation in every beverage. Their range of gins and rums are inspired by the Capricorn journey – from Melbourne to Rockhampton and, finally, Burleigh Heads.
Top drop: Their Pineapple Rum
Six-Tricks Distilling Co, Mermaid Waters
The self-confessed rule benders behind Six-Tricks opened the forward-thinking distillery in November, 2023. Since then, they’re become a beloved fixture on the Mermaid Waters (and generally, the Gold Coast) hospitality scene.
Top drop: Their Premium Vodka
www.sixtricks.com.au
Granddad Jack’s, Miami
With live music, interactive tours, and a laid-back vibe, Granddad Jack’s promises a fun-filled experience for both locals and tourists exploring the vibrant Gold Coast scene. Plus, we love the family values behind this business.
Top drop: Any of their whiskeys.
Cauldron Distillery, Tamborine Mountain
The inviting ambience and flavourful spirits make this a must-visit destination for gin-loving locals and tourists alike. They offer tastings, plus tours of their 18-acre property – and we promise, there’s nothing quite like sipping an ice cold gin on the grass.
Top drop: The limited release True Blue Gin
White Oat Distillery, Biggera Waters
The White Oat story started on a farm in New Zealand, with a bored but science-obsessed 13-year-old boy. Now, you can visit their Biggera Water taproom to taste – no, experience – their unique take on gin.
Top drop: Their Sweet Tart peach and passionfruit sour gin
Wild Flower Gin, Varsity Lakes
A true boutique distillery, Wild Flower takes notes from its Gold Coast surrounds – and allows its visitors to do the same. Bring along flowers from your own backyard to create a truly custom blend in their masterclass.
Top drop: Their Lamington Vodka
Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Tamborine Mountain
A true pioneer of the Queensland craft distilling industry, Tamborine Mountain Distillery has sat up on the mountain since 1993. They’ve adopted modern methods since then, but stay true to their heritage and traditional processes.
Top drop: Any of the schnapps
Familiar Spirits, Burleigh Heads
Small-batch gin, a proper cheese board and a family tree that runs through the whole operation. Husband-and-wife duo run Familiar Spirits in Burleigh’s industrial backstreets, with food from the family and wine from a cousin’s vineyard. Pick up a bottle on the way out.
Top drop: The Butler’s Gin
Husk Distillery, Tumbulgum
It’s not technically on the Gold Coast, but the drive to Husk Distillery is well worth it. Work your way through their range of artisanal spirits (including rum and gym) or take a tour of the distillery. Don’t leave without sampling the food menu, either.
Top drop: The Bam Bam spiced rum
