Eagle has landed: New distillery in Broke

Located in Broke, Kawal Rock Distillery takes its namesake from Ka-Wal, the local Wonnarua people’s name for eagle. Legend has it that the twin wedge-tailed eagles living on the property, which can often be seen circling the vineyard, are ancient protectors of the land.

Owners Louise and Maria were determined to make the most of the 60-year-old Muscat vineyard and discovered the grapes could be used for brandy. They purchased a 500-litre copper still to distil wine grapes to a grape spirit that is then used for their brandy, vodka and range of gins.

Their ‘Girls on the Hill’ gin range (as locals affectionately call them) are triple distilled to create smooth, quality spirits. The ‘Signature’ is a traditional gin with fresh native lemon peel.

For the ‘Pink Diamond’ gin, muscat grapes are macerated for two weeks while the ‘Itchy Wombat’ gin is infused with native botanicals. There is also a Moonshine Vodka, Brandy, and their ever popular Moscato.
The charming eco-friendly rustic barn cellar door features reclaimed wine barrel staves panelling behind their majestic copper still and a large blue gum tasting bench from the local mill. The $25 tasting is hosted personally by Maria or Louise and includes a glass of Moscato, each of the gins as well as a taste of the brandy and vodka. With a casual relaxed vibe, you can have your tasting in the cellar door or sit outside under the pergola sipping your drinks and soaking up the fantastic views.

Kawal Rock Distillery is open Thursday – Monday 10am to 5pm. kawalrockdistillery.com