Nestled in the scenic beauty of Tamborine Mountain, the Tamborine Mountain Distillery has etched its name as an award-winning manufacturer of boutique liqueurs and spirits. Established in 1993, it proudly stands as the third oldest distillery in Queensland, a legacy born from a passion for gardening and a love for distillation.

A Family Legacy Begins: From Orchard to Distillery

The story of Tamborine Mountain Distillery began when Michael and Alla Svetlana Ward moved from Tasmania to the original property in Beacon Road, Tamborine Mountain. Michael, a fervent gardener, single handedly planted each tree on the property, once a dilapidated citrus and avocado orchard. With an abundance of surplus fruit and drawing from Alla's experience in distillation from her youth, the Wards embarked on a transformational journey - turning their property into a distillery.

Image Source: The Tamborine Mountain Distillery Facebook

A Quarter Century of Excellence: Australia's Most Awarded Distillery

Fast forward over a quarter of a century, and Tamborine Mountain Distillery has amassed well over 300 international awards, firmly establishing itself as Australia's most awarded distillery and liquor brand in the new millennium.

Passing the Torch: New Custodians and a Vision for International Expansion

In 2017, as the Wards embarked on retirement, the distillery found new custodians in Gordon Chalmers and Dr. Shumei Hou. They set forth with an ambitious plan to expand this iconic brand globally from their new, more expansive location at MacDonnell Road. The project entailed a complete revitalization and modernization of the old brewery site, all while preserving the historical charm that had garnered a devoted following over the years.

Image Credit: Gordon Chalmers   Image Source: The Tamborine Mountain Distillery Facebook

Gordon Chalmers: The Distillation Maestro

At the helm as their Head Distiller is Gordon Chalmers, a luminary in the world of botanical distillations. Armed with post-graduate degrees in both Technology and Business and over 30 years of experience in industrial automation and process control within the food and beverage industries, Gordon is the mastermind behind the distillery's innovative approach.

With a repertoire of over 200 Certified Organic formulations, Gordon has pioneered unique applications of Australian botanicals in alcoholic beverages, essential oils, and well-being treatments. His commitment to sustainable manufacturing procedures has earned him international acclaim, positioning him as a leader in natural and organic formulations and a pioneer of distillation and extraction technologies. Gordon applies his skills and knowledge to craft the distillery's award-winning range of liqueurs and spirits, passionately utilizing an array of Australian Botanicals to infuse their drinks with unique flavors.

The Art of Distillation: Crafting Smooth and Unique Flavors

The distillation process at Tamborine Mountain Distillery is a testament to artisanal craftsmanship. Utilizing a range of specialized copper pot and reflux column stills, their production team meticulously creates a superb array of spirits and tinctures. Multiple levels of distillation, coupled with an impressive range of natural ingredients and native botanicals, culminate in beverages characterized by their smoothness and uniqueness.

The traditional methods passed down through generations from the founders' Russian and Ukrainian family heritage remain pivotal to the distillation processes of the distillery today.

With over 1.5 million visitors flocking to Tamborine Mountain annually, the distillery has earned its status as a "must-visit" destination, commanding a devoted following from local, interstate, and international patrons. With a remarkable offering of approximately ninety different spirits and liqueurs, it beckons connoisseurs and enthusiasts to embark on numerous delightful trips to Tamborine Mountain in search of their favorite flavor.

Image Source: The Tamborine Mountain Distillery Facebook

Tamborine Mountain Distillery continues to stand as a beacon of excellence, blending tradition with innovation to create a world-renowned selection of boutique liqueurs and spirits, each bottle bearing the essence of their passion and the legacy of a cherished mountain.

Tamborine Mountain Distillery’s Apricot Brandy achieved the third highest score at the 2023 London Spirits Competition and took the Gold medal as the Brandy of the Year 2023 with a score of 96 points.

A fruit brandy with pronounced aromas of stone fruits, caramel, raisin and flavors of vanilla, apricot and yogurt on palate with good balance and a long finish.