McHenry Federation Gin

This is a re-tasting as at 12th September 2024. The original notes I made here (see below) are still accurate but I’m re-reviewing this gin to hopefully bring it to the attention of fellow Australians who may not have encountered it before. I don’t think it is available through any of the franchised liquor stores in Australia so it is not well known, which is a real shame because it is a wonderful gin and this small family-owned distillery deserves our support. This gin has perfect balance between juniper and citrus-like Australian botanicals, together with a sweet creaminess, which makes it excellently suited to use in a G&T (where the bitter tonic offsets the gin’s sweetness precisely) or in a negroni. It also makes a good old-fashioned “wet” martini, but lovers of bone-dry “modern” martinis might find it too sweet. The price has increased just a little since I first reviewed this gin 6 years ago, but $85 for a 700ml bottle is good value, and if you buy two bottles shipping is included to anywhere in Australia. (order online at https://mchenrydistillery.com.au/ Please note I have no connection with the distillery). Same rating as 6 years ago “Outstanding” : 93/100 (5 stars) ------------------------------------------------ Nose: Soft and uplifting floral notes balanced against juniper and peppery aromas. A little citrus and a touch of licorice. Lemon, pine needles, and spicy fruit. Breathtakingly beautiful, delicate but with character. Palate: Dusky orange citrus arrival with licorice. A rich oily mouthfeel. It develops fresh spicy layers as it unfolds, ending with a backdrop of crisp and tangy juniper. The texture is creamy, rich and blanketing. Finish: Medium. Perfectly balanced juniper, citrus and warm spice right to the end. A wonderful texture and a full flavour without being excessive. Dry, sweet, earthy and fragrant all at once. A rich and creamy, almost oily, texture when taken neat, and stunning in a G&T or cocktail. This special release from the most southern family-run distillery in the world contains hand foraged botanicals from every Australian state, including Kakadu plum, lemon myrtle, strawberry gum, mountain pepperleaf, cinnamon myrtle, celery-top pine, wattleseed, quandong and (of course) juniper. It’s an excellent example of the type of gin coming out of Australia just at the moment but it is nuanced and not overbearing on the palate. Australian gin has exploded into our scene over the last two years and this is my favourite of the many fine local gins currently available. At the price it is remarkable value and it gets my highest recommendation. “Outstanding” : 93/100 (5 stars)

Dry but with a sweet crispness. Uses a native plant from each state in the best kind of homage to the Aus Fed.