We’re not in the habit of spotlighting the many wonderful things happening in other states around Australia, but in this instance, we are happy to make an exception. The Republic of Fremantle might just be our favourite WA export, with its fine selection of gin and vodka making waves in the hospitality scene and with tastemakers in the know.
Don’t believe us? Well, Signature Vodka has recently been crowned as the World’s Best Vodka.
We were very lucky to be invited to an exclusive masterclass where we sampled gin and vodka as we learned about how these blends had been distilled and the many ways in which The Republic of Fremantle are shaking (not stirring) up what we know about the delicate distilling process. The event took place at the incredible Beneath Drive Lane bar which set the scene for an evening of delicious cocktails, an informative masterclass and excitement for the future of Republic of Fremantle. The partnership between Beneath Driver Lane and the WA brand is a perfect collaboration and something Melbournians do not want to miss.
What we love about Republic of Fremantle
Republic of Fremantle is one of only a few white spirits distilleries in the country to produce their own base spirit from wine. Head Distiller Tom Hutchings works closely with Swan Valley winemakers throughout vintage, and to monitor the fermentation process to ensure the terroir character is carried through from grape to glass. The masterclass was treated to having the Head Distiller at the venue which made the event that much more intimate and educational.
The guest experiences didn’t stop there, as Republic of Fremantle’s Melbourne representative Alessandro Nardini was behind the bar crafting the Sicilian Martinis, Free Bird and West End Sour cocktails on offer.
It’s hard to say where and how our brand preference for liquor comes from. Cocktail recipes, food pairings and brand prominence all play a part in developing our bar stash, and it can take a lot to step outside our creature comforts and try something a little different.
Beneath Driver Lane, an iconic Melbourne bar
When we arrived at Beneath Driver Lane we could not believe we hadn’t been there before and began mentally booking this unique, bluesy bar as the venue for social gatherings going forward. It has a sexy speakeasy vibe, with cement stairs, classic styling, and low ceilings with candles scattered around the brick-built bar. Beneath Driver Lane is well known for its live blues band program every Thursday-Saturday, which will continue throughout the Republic of Fremantle takeover.
Venue manager Kealan Brady has developed a limited-release cocktail menu showcasing the distillery’s Signature Vodka, Aromatic Gin and Full-Bodied Gin.
“We’re excited to be working with Republic of Fremantle on this exclusive preview of their range of spirits. The Republic Gins have a distinctive flavour profile, while their Signature Vodka has a really good texture and backbone,” says Kealan.
“Their Aromatic Gin is paired with grape-based products Lillet and Marsala wine in our Sicilian Martini, with other cocktail pairings working to highlight the textures and flavours of each spirit. We can’t wait for Melbourne gin and vodka lovers to experience what are some of Australia’s only crafted grape-based spirits,” says Kealan.
The perfect partnership for Melbournians to enjoy
Despite the success of Republic of Fremantle, the brand is still in its infancy and so Melbournians will not be able to order Rebuplic of Fremantle cocktails at every bar. Fortunately, you can enjoy these award-winning vodka and gin concoctions at Beneath Driver Lane, which is truly the best place to have a martini. Now, if Melbournians are truly persistent in their quest to try all of these cocktails, Republic of Fremantle is the by-product of the extremely successful restaurant of the same name, with gin school and menu tastings on offer year-round in Western Australia.
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