MASTER THE ART OF SPIRIT TASTING
- Reed & Co Distillery
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Australia’s craft spirit movement is in full swing and learning to taste and appreciate the unique new spirits we are producing is a great way to find your new favourite.
Many distilleries, including Reed & Co. offer guided Spirit Tastings, similar to those you might be used to encountering at a winery cellar door. Much like wine, Australian spirits are often inspired by place and tasting them direct from the source is often the best way to enjoy them.
Our home, the Victorian High Country, has shaped our spirits for years - think Remedy bush gin with mountain pepper and eucalyptus; NEO Yuzu Gin with fruit from our neighbours at Mountain Yuzu; and our Australian-made Koji Spirits Shochu range, born from our love of Japanese fermentation.
We offer tasting flights of all our spirits in our Spirit Lab tasting room - where we invite you to slow down and dial your senses up. We guide you the way we taste in the distillery - nose, palate, structure, finish - so you can pick out the botanicals, identify our influences, and discover how different serves (neat, over ice, highball) and mixers can change a spirit’s character.
Whether you’re a long-time gin devotee or koji-curious and just starting out, a tasting with us will sharpen your palate, deepen your appreciation, and give you simple, delicious ways to enjoy premium spirits at home.
Getting the most out of your spirit tasting
Spirit tasting is more than just sampling drinks; it is an immersive experience that engages all your senses. At the R&CO. Spirit Lab, our visitors can select their own tasting flight from a range of options, and our expert bartenders will share insights about the production process, the history, and the unique characteristics of each spirit.
When tasting spirits, it’s important to follow a few key steps:
Observe the colour: Sometimes, the hue can reveal the spirit’s age, the the type of cask used for maturation, or the addition of other ingredients.
Swirl gently: This releases the aromas trapped in the glass.
Smell deeply: Take short, gentle sniffs to identify different scent notes such as vanilla, spice, or fruit.
Sip slowly: Let the spirit coat your palate so you can detect layers of flavour.
Note the finish: Pay attention to how long the taste lingers and any evolving flavours after you've swallowed it.
Many Australian distilleries, including ours, use native botanicals and local grains, which add distinctive regional character to the spirits. For example, our NEO GIN incorporates local yuzu, and our Remedy Australian Bush Gin imparts unique flavours you may not find elsewhere.
Tips for enhancing your spirit tasting skills
Mastering spirit tasting requires practice and attention to detail. Here are some practical tips to help you refine your palate and deepen your understanding:
Use the right glassware: The correct glassware can concentrate aromas and improve your tasting experience.
Avoid strong scents: Perfumes, food smells, and smoke can interfere with your ability to detect subtle notes.
Cleanse your palate: Drink water or eat plain crackers between tastings to reset your taste buds.
Take notes: Record your impressions of each spirit to track your preferences and progress.
By following these suggestions, you can develop a more nuanced appreciation of Australian spirits and impress friends with your tasting expertise!
Mastering the art of spirit tasting opens up a world of flavours and stories. Embrace the process, savour each sip, and discover the unique character that our Reed & Co. spirits have to offer.
