Melbourne’s iconoclastic hideaway, Beneath Driver Lane, is rolling out the red carpet for an exclusive preview of Republic of Fremantle’s handcrafted gins and vodka.
This Western Australian distillery recently collected a bounty of accolades, including the prestigious Best International Vodka award. Situated in the pulsating heart of the city, Beneath Driver Lane plunges visitors into an enticing underground world dedicated to showcasing the depth of Australia’s craft spirits. More than a whisky haven, the bar bolsters small, independent producers and now spotlights Republic of Fremantle’s exceptional offerings.
Running until 25 June, this distinct engagement will expose guests to the extraordinary art of grape-to-glass spirits—a pioneering distillation technique that Republic of Fremantle proudly employs. Hailed as a frontrunner in Western Australia’s spirits industry and the region’s Good Food Guide’s 2022 Bar of the Year, Republic of Fremantle recently bagged three awards at the 2023 ADI International Spirits Competition for their Signature Vodka.
Embracing this rare distilling technique, Beneath Driver Lane transforms into a sanctuary for those craving a memorable drinking experience. The venue highlights the unique flavour of Verdelho grapes, handpicked from century-old vines in Western Australia’s Swan Valley. This quality serves as the bedrock for all Republic of Fremantle products.
Kealan Brady, Beneath Driver Lane’s manager, has designed a bespoke cocktail menu showcasing the distillery’s Signature Vodka, Aromatic Gin, and Full-Bodied Gin. Eager to expose Melbourne’s gin and vodka enthusiasts to these uniquely crafted grape-based spirits, Kealan anticipates a warm reception for the delightful drinks on offer.
Republic of Fremantle’s commitment to producing its own base spirit from wine, under the watchful eye of Head Distiller Tom Hutchings, underscores the distillery’s dedication to retaining the terroir character from grape to glass.
Guests will embark on a multi-sensory adventure exploring the rich and complex flavours of Republic of Fremantle’s gins, inspired by Verdelho grapes and an exquisite array of botanicals. The menu features creative takes on timeless cocktails, like the Sicilian Martini, and introduces unique offerings, like Free Bird.
Alessandro Nardini, Republic of Fremantle’s Melbourne representative, and former Beneath Driver Lane bartender, has organised this exclusive preview. He fondly celebrates the launch at a venue pivotal to his career development, further enlivened by live blues performances every Thursday to Saturday.
With a mutual dedication to spirit education and the bar’s intimate setting, the event offers patrons the chance to deepen their understanding of grape-to-glass spirits, guided by trained bartenders ready to share the distillery’s unique history and production methods.
So, Melbourne gin and vodka lovers, don’t miss the chance to explore a unique cocktail menu reflecting the essence of Western Australia’s innovative distillery—Republic of Fremantle—until 25 June at Beneath Driver Lane.
Find Beneath Driver Lane at Shop/3 Driver Ln, Melbourne.
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