September 2024 | Cloud Distillery Macedon Ranges Pink Gin

Nestled amidst the splendour of the Macedon Ranges, Cloud Distillery is a shared vision of couple James and Jane Oldland. The Oldlands, joined by their three children, embraced the Macedon Ranges as their home over a decade ago, well before the ‘tree-change’ trend surged during COVID-19. Rounding out the team is Josie Fletcher, who made the leap from Manchester, England to Woodend; bringing extensive financial experience to Cloud Distillery from roles in wineries and distilleries across the UK.

The passion project was born in the Oldland’s barn during the lockdowns of 2020. Armed with a modest 5L copper still from a local Melbourne brewing store, they embarked on a quest to create a gin that embodied the spirit of their vibrant and close-knit community.

Early iterations of their house style yielded mixed results, to put it delicately.  James and Jane now look back and laugh at Jane’s reaction to the initial batch, which she famously spat into the kitchen sink. Meanwhile, James’ stepmother, Melanie, tactfully sipped to avoid any offense. Undeterred, Jane and James persisted, honing their craft until Cloud Distillery’s signature gin met Jane’s exacting standards. Finally, they’d perfected the recipe for what is now celebrated as their Macedon Ranges Dry Gin – a classic London dry gin infused with a distinctive Macedon Ranges twist, making it an essential addition to any collection.

While there is not yet a dedicated tasting room to visit, their gins can be savoured at several local establishments in the Woodend area, with plans underway to open their own distillery door by 2025.

“Sustainability is important to us, and maintaining the beautiful region we live and work in is at the heart of our business.”

From the beginning, Cloud Distillery has provided Eco Tanks to the pubs and establishments stocking their gins and vodkas. These Eco Tanks, made of fully recyclable plastic, significantly reduce glass and plastic wastage. For customers, Cloud Distillery offers $5 off gin and vodka for every bottle returned, with several drop-off locations available on request. By sterilising and reusing bottles, they minimise waste and reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, all botanicals and fruits used in the gin distilling process are composted in their nearby gardens.

This dedication to quality, community and local sourcing was rewarded when their Macedon Ranges Pink Gin took home a Double Gold medal at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Reflecting on this achievement, James described it as “surreal,” celebrating the recognition as a world-class distiller of gin just months after going to market. Fittingly, the Cloud Distillery team, along with their children, celebrated with a meal in Woodend.

So, as we all awaken from winter’s slumber, Cloud Distillery’s Pink Gin is our ideal companion to welcome in the warmer months. It pairs beautifully with Asian fusion food, fish, and salads. For a unique twist, savour it after a meal as an alternative to dessert – or with dessert! Head to page 22 in September's Magazine for a delectable Pink Gin & Tonic Cheesecake recipe to get you started!

Gin type – Dry Pink Gin

Appearance – Bright, blushing rose pink

Botanicals – Juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, mountain pepperleaf, nutmeg, strawberries, blueberries, cinnamon, raspberries, cranberries, ginger, rose petals

Aroma – Ripe raspberry, angelica root with a delicate floral note, hints of juniper, earthy cinnamon and nutmeg

Palate – Well-rounded, smooth mouthfeel. Notes of juniper partnered with soft flavours of juicy strawberries, blueberries and raspberries

Finish – A clean, crisp finish with a subtle warmth from pepperleaf, nutmeg, ginger and cinnamon