Do you have any exciting products coming up in the future that you can share with
us? Or even any hints about what is next for you?
Robin: “The Mallee region of South Australia is not only known for dry land farming – irrigated crops such as potatoes, carrots and onions are huge here. About 80% of Australia’s potatoes come from SA, with the majority from the Southern Mallee region. So, that being said, my next venture just has to be a potato vodka.
After inheriting the farm, we found out that Ron is actually related to the family who built it. Around 100 years ago they had the foresight to plant five Moreton Bay Figs on the property, and Ron is very excited to utilise them. He has challenged to me to develop a gin featuring them, which I’m not too sure about, so we will see how I go with that!”
Robin, what is your favourite thing about having a distillery?
Robin: “It’s that cross between science and taste, and I love gin. I love experimenting with the behaviour of the distillation process and the use of botanicals. It’s also given me a renewed enthusiasm for gardening. My garden is now full of plants that I hope one day to use in a distillation. Mind you, it
will be a long time before I can harvest juniper!
Having worked full time as a health professional, it is fantastic to be able to delve your attention into something
that has absolutely nothing to do with your day to day work. One day when I slowly transition to retirement, I will be able to say I am a distiller, instead of experiencing the loss of identity that so often overwhelms the early retiree.
It’s also something that Ron and I do together. We may not always be doing the same task – but we share the same goal. We would not have Mallee Spirit if I did not have the support and knowledge of Ron.”
Ron, what’s the best part of running Mallee Spirit from your perspective?
Ron: “I am so pleased that Robin has found a passion that will drive her forward and give her purpose beyond her chosen career, and the fact that it is based on the farm is just fantastic. Robin has supported me and my choices over so many years – it is simply brilliant that I get to do the same for her.”