There’s no denying that South Australia is home to some of the best and most innovative gin distilleries in the country, and if you’re ready to embark on a gin-filled adventure, one that combines the brilliance of science with the laid-back beach vibes of SA, then it’s time for you to meet one of the newest kids on the gin block—Hill Street Distillers.
Ben and Chris Ryan, brothers and founders of Hill Street Distillers, are making waves in the world of gin distillation. With their passion for experimentation, home brewing background, and commitment to creating approachable and full-flavoured spirits, this dynamic duo is redefining the craft gin scene in a fun and friendly way.
Officially launched in 2022, the idea for Hill Street Distillers came about during a long drive back from Yorkes, filled with banter and brotherly bonding. ‘With international travel drying up during COVID, so did our supply of duty-free spirits’, says Chris, ‘and we took advantage of the COVID restrictions and the extra time at home and got a little creative—experimenting and making our own compound gin, infusing vodka and botanicals’.
‘A year or so later, Benny and I were heading back from one of our regular surf trips, and we came to the conclusion that the time was right to kick off a microdistillery’.
The brothers’ first release, The Original Gin, is a testament to their dedication and love for crafting exceptional spirits. This smooth and juniper-forward gin captivates the senses with citrus notes and a satisfying hint of sweet spice on the finish. ‘For a classic G&T, I recommend pairing it with Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic and garnishing with dried orange or thyme,’ says Chris, ‘or we also love it in a Negroni or a Gin Cabernet Sour’.
The positive feedback the boys have received has only fueled their excitement, and they can’t wait to share more of their creations with the world’s gin lovers. ‘Soon, we’ll be releasing our Mulberry Gin which features hand-picked mulberries from our mother’s tree that have been steeped in gin for several months before hand pressing. The result is a rich, dark and juicy gin with a hint of tartness that can be enjoyed over ice, with your favourite mixer or cocktail, or simply sipped neat’, says Chris.
Using their background in science and technology, the Ryan brothers are embracing the opportunity to experiment with new flavours and ideas, with Ben working on a winter gin that not only promises a full-bodied flavour but also changes colour with pH. ‘We’ve produced a cane spirit which is currently in barrel with plans to make an aged rum down the track’, says Chris, ‘and we’ve also collaborated with Summa McCracken, developing a Limoncello that’s produced in our Hill Street shed and is going gangbusters in various restaurants and bars across Adelaide’.
Designed by the talented Sue Rattanonda, the Hill Street label perfectly captures the spirit of their surroundings—the hills and the ocean. ‘All the production of our gin is done from my refurbished 1970s shed in the Adelaide Hills, which has the most amazing view overlooking the trees and hilltops of the Crafers region’, says Chris. ‘All the packaging and distribution is done from Ben’s place in Port Noarlunga, and so we wanted to combine our love for both the hills and the cruisy beach vibes in our label’.
So, where can you find Hill Street Distillers?
You can purchase it online with the added bonus of free carbon-neutral delivery, or you’ll find it at various locations around SA, including The Kings Head in the city, The Alma in Norwood, the boy’s favourite Stirling restaurant Locavore, or Noori on the Midcoast—’a hidden gem of a cocktail bar in Port Noarlunga’, says Chris.
Hill Street Distillers is more than just a gin brand—it’s a passion project that captures the spirit of SA and the brotherly love for quality craft spirits.
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