Alright cocktail enthusiasts, gather ’round! I recently went on an adventure at Hickson House Distilling Co., and let me tell you, it was a spirited experience. Located in the historic Rocks district of Sydney, Hickson House Distilling Co. isn’t just another bar; it’s a celebration of Australian spirits and the art of distillation. Housed within a beautifully restored heritage building, the distillery boasts a stunning copper still and a stylish, inviting atmosphere. They’re known for their handcrafted gins, which use native Australian botanicals to give their spirits a unique and distinctly local flavour. Forget your average bar hop; this was a hands-on cocktail masterclass, a deep dive into the art of mixology, and a whole lot of fun.
For a reasonable $69, I joined a monthly session led by the charming Maurizio (who deserves his own cocktail named after him, by the way). The 90-minute class wasn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it was a journey through cocktail history, a masterclass in technique, and a peek behind the bar for some insider tricks. We kicked things off with a refreshing Summer Cup – a perfect palate cleanser for the deliciousness to come.
The main event? Crafting three iconic cocktails: a Gin Tonica, a Negroni, and a Southside. And because I’m a generous soul (and also because I took copious notes), I’m sharing the recipes and my tasting notes with you.
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Gin Tonica
Ingredients:
- 45ml Hickson House Oyster Shell Gin
- 120ml Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water
- Garnish: Juniper berries, pink grapefruit wedge, tarragon
Tasting Notes: This wasn’t your average G&T. The Oyster Shell Gin, a signature of Hickson House, gave it a unique saline minerality, like a gentle sea breeze kissing your taste buds. This unique flavour profile is a testament to Hickson House’s dedication to using innovative ingredients. The Mediterranean tonic added a subtle herbal sweetness, while the juniper, grapefruit, and tarragon brought a refreshing citrusy and herbaceous complexity. It was light, crisp, and utterly delightful – the perfect summer sipper. Imagine lounging by the Mediterranean but in a glass. That’s this drink.
Negroni
Ingredients:
- 30ml Hickson House Classic Dry Gin
- 30ml Campari
- 30ml Red Vermouth
- Garnish: Orange wedge
Tasting Notes: Now, this is where things got interesting. The Negroni is a classic for a reason, and Hickson House’s version didn’t disappoint. Their Classic Dry Gin, the foundation of this cocktail, provided a solid backbone, allowing the Campari’s bitter orange notes to dance with the sweet, spiced vermouth. It’s a complex, bittersweet symphony in a glass—a sophisticated drink for those who appreciate a bit of an edge. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you enjoy a drink with character, this is your new best friend. It was bold, balanced, and utterly moreish.
Southside
Ingredients:
- 40ml Hickson House Australian Dry Gin
- 30ml Lime Juice
- 15ml Sugar Syrup
- 10 Mint leaves
- Garnish: Mint
Tasting Notes: This was the refreshing, zesty finale. The Australian Dry Gin, another example of Hickson House’s commitment to local flavours, provided a bright, citrusy base, perfectly complemented by the tartness of the fresh lime juice. The sugar syrup added just the right touch of sweetness, while the mint provided a cool, herbaceous finish. It was like a mojito’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin. It was crisp, clean, and utterly refreshing – the perfect way to end a fantastic cocktail-making adventure.
The Hickson House Distillery Co. cocktail masterclass was an absolute blast. It was informative, engaging, and most importantly, delicious. Maurizio was a fantastic host, sharing his passion and knowledge with infectious enthusiasm.
The intimate setting allowed for candid chats and a great opportunity to meet fellow cocktail enthusiasts. The fact that it’s held in such a historic and beautiful location only adds to the experience. If you’re looking for a fun and unique experience in The Rocks, and want to sample some top-notch Australian spirits, I highly recommend checking it out (if you can snag a spot in their once-a-month sessions!). You’ll leave with new skills, a deeper appreciation for cocktails, and maybe even a slight buzz. Cheers!
Hickson House Distilling Co
6 Hickson Rd, The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
T: +61 2 8999 3852 | tours@hicksonhouse.com.au | hello@hicksonhouse.com.au
