February 2025 | Dutch Rules Thai Gin

If ever there was a distillery with personality, it’s Dutch Rules. Founded in 2022 by hospitality veteran Danny Perera, Dutch Rules Distilling Co. is the culmination of a journey that spans continents, industries, and a love of bold flavours. Danny grew up in Sri Lanka, before moving abroad to study microbiology in Melbourne. Amongst the bustling café culture, it wasn’t long before a part-time hospitality job pulled him in a different direction. “Working at a bar, I realised that this was in my genes,” he says. “I loved talking to people and creating experiences — that was my industry.”

In 2017, he co-founded Two Rupees in Clayton, a brewery with a distinctly Sri Lankan twist. The beer — think a white ale infused with Sri Lankan spices — quickly earned a loyal following, leading to the opening of a taproom in Clayton. When COVID-19 disrupted the beer scene, Danny turned his focus to a newfound passion: distilling.

Striking out on his own, he transformed a Mitcham warehouse into Dutch Rules Distilling Co. – a spirit-forward playground for his creative ambitions. But getting a distillery off the ground was no small task. Navigating the maze of regulations, licenses, and steep upfront costs was a daunting challenge, but Danny’s determination to create something truly unique saw him through. The crowded craft spirits market demanded not just great gin, but a strong identity – and Dutch Rules would deliver both in spades.

Every great gin has a story, and the one behind Dutch Rules Thai Gin might just be the most unexpected. It all started with a classic lunch break – head distiller Brad digging into his favourite Thai green curry from the restaurant next door, and a classic gin and tonic. Then, fate (or perhaps clumsiness) intervened: a splash of curry found its way into his drink. Most would call it a disaster, but Brad? He took a sip – and an idea was born.

Turning that happy accident into a fully realised gin was no small feat. Brad wasted no time experimenting, crafting three initial versions that came tantalisingly close to perfection. Each attempt highlighted the potential of the bold botanicals, but something was still missing – a key ingredient to tie it all together. This, ultimately, was the humble coconut cream. Its velvety texture and rich oils added the perfect balance, elevating the flavours and bringing the recipe to life. 

Dutch Rules Thai Gin is packed with botanicals that read like the recipe for any great Thai dish: coriander seed, makrut (kaffir) lime leaves, lemongrass, Thai basil, Bird’s Eye chilli, and, of course, coconut cream. As the team puts it, “It’s like a wild Thai feast doing the cha-cha in your mouth.”

While their Thai Gin takes centre stage this month here at Garden Street, Dutch Rules’ lineup is packed with plenty of standouts. Their flagship New World Dry Gin reimagines the classic, offering a versatile and fresh citrus-forward base.

For those who prefer their gin with a bit more punch, there’s Officer’s Cut, a navy-strength powerhouse clocking in at 58% ABV. This gin doesn’t just pack heat – coastal botanicals karkalla and toasted seaweed give it a savoury edge while juniper keeps it classic. Bold yet refined, it’s a drinkable ode to the sea. And for vodka fans, their ultra-smooth, clean offering is a favourite among bartenders.