What is a 'Craft' Spirit?

It’s taken over the world as the catch phrase for almost every new liquor brand that has been created. But what does 'craft' mean? 

Paul & Jeremy, distillers of The West Winds Australian Gin.

There is a misconception that ‘craft’ must be new. In fact, we believe that some of the oldest distilleries of cognac and whisky produce incredible, crafted spirits – through the expertise of skilled Master Distillers.

This being said, the ‘Craft Movement’ has been one in which passionate newcomers to the industry look to branch out from traditional botanicals or methods of production to create exciting new spirits. These new brands are labelled craft as they’re small, with a limited production & sales capacity.

The American Craft Distillers Association states that to be called craft, a brand must be meet criteria such as be at least 75% owned by the distillery, and produce less than 100,000 gallons per year. 

Labelling also provides another clue to your favourite spirits. You instantly know when picking up a bottle of whiskey if it was 100% distilled in house (craft) or not by reading the label. It will say ‘Distilled by XXX’ or ‘Bottled by XXX.’

The passion and dedication that goes into producing the spirit. It’s about using unique botanicals and quality produce to create a truly luxurious product.

Craft brands have helped to redefine the perception of luxury. It no longer needs to be just about the ‘bling’ but much more about the authenticity, the craftsmanship, and choosing the finest wood and ingredients to create something unique and groundbreaking.

Take this scenario:

You’ve worked hard today, relentless in pursuit of your goals. You’ve had a relaxing evening out, with a decadent menu shared by amazing company. Putting the stamp on the end of the day is imperative. The nightcap you choose can take the experience from satisfying to unforgettable.

If the evening was low key and relaxing, spent in casual elegance accented with laughter; we’d go for a Maidenii Vermouth on the rocks. Add a twist of orange and you’re ready to go. Sweet, bitter, long-lasting flavour.

After a black tie event, you can’t go past a classic Martini – made with The West Winds Gin of course. The natural sophistication of this refined cocktail will elevate your spirits with just the right twist.

A mixed crowd will take pleasure in sipping on The Grove Spiced Rum. If the toffee, fig, and vanilla notes of this aged rum doesn’t impress them, the continued toffee, rich fruit, and wood will.

A soggy, miserable day beckons one to slip out of wet clothes and into a Rye Manhattan. Try with High West, made slightly sweet. 

If your evening was one of those over-the-top kinds of nights that find you wishing there would be many, many more, the perfect high note is a handcrafted whisky. Go with a suave sip with limited bottles – Sullivans Cove Special Cask Single Malt.