By Ian Neubauer
Tamborine Mountain Distillery (TMD) has received international acclaim after chalking up four category awards at the 2008 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The Queensland distiller received silver medals for its Chocolate and Chilli Liqueur and Arak/Raki Pastis, and bronze medals for its Lavender Liquer and Moulin Rooz absinthe.
TMD co-owner Michael Ward said recognition at international liquor awards was a key marketing factor in the quest to position TMD spirits in the super-premium spirit category.
“We decided at the beginning to go into the very, very niche market — the top end of the chain, and that involves high quality products, great presentation and international awards,” Ward said.
“We spend a minimum of $15,000 a year just on entry fees but I think it is a worthwhile investment. These competitions are revered, so when customers look at a bottle and observe that you have awards, it gives a great deal of prestige.”
Located in Queensland’s Gold Coast hinterland, TMD manufactures 60 kinds of vodka, liqueur, absinthe and herbals, all of which are handmade without artificial additives and from chemical-free fruit.
TMD has chalked up 64 awards over the last 10 years, making it the highest grossing award-winner in Australian distilling history.