A drop above the rest

Mountain Distilling team members Liam Pentecost, Neil Mills, Michael Harris, George Cremasco and Marcus Aquilina with their prize-winning collection. (Mountain Distilling) 244066_01

By Oliver Lees

A Mount Macedon distillery has been recognised with three gold medals at the 2021 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).

Founded by Michael Harris and George Cremasco in 2017, Mountain Distilling racked up accolades for their red gum infused single malt whiskey, their signature Mountain Gin, as well as in the gin and tonic category.

Mr Cremasco said it was “absolutely incredible” to be recognised for such a prestigious award.

“It’s actually hard to believe, it’s something we’ve dreamt about and we’ve achieved it,” Mr Cremasco said.

“There are entrants from all over the world, so it puts us right up there comparable with the best around.

The competition, based in London, ranked Mountain Distilling’s original red gum whiskey higher than any other Australian distillery.

“We’ve always wanted to make this sort of thing using native Australian wood, instead of oak, which is more common,” Mr Cremasco said.

“It’s the first whiskey to be made with red gum.

“We’re focused on trying to create spirits that are Australian-based and share it with the world.”

Mr Harris said the Macedon Ranges was an inspiration behind their product.

“There’s something about the Macedon Ranges and the distinctive flavour of red gum that is so enticing,” he said.

“Our red gum single malt is a true representation of our distillery’s ethos here in the Macedon Ranges.”

The red gum single malt will be available as a limited pre-order until it’s official release in November.

Details: www.mountaindistilling.com