A gin made on King Island has been named the best in the country at the world’s largest independent gin awards.
King Island Distillery Bass Strait’s Gidley Pinot Noir Gin took out the Best in Australia title at the 2026 Gin Guide Awards in London, meaning it scored higher than every other Australian entry.
The result came a day after the gin picked up a Gold Medal at the same awards.
Vaughan O’Connor, managing director of King Island Distillery Bass Strait, said the recognition was a major milestone.
“When we created this product, the ambition was simple – don’t make another ordinary gin,” he said.
“Make something with enough texture, richness, elegance and individuality that it could stand on the world stage without compromise.”
“To now see a product from remote King Island recognised this way in London is a big moment for our distillery and for everyone backing what we are building.”
The London win adds to a Gold rating the gin received last year from Halliday Wine Companion and Halliday Spirits in Australia, which scored it equal to the highest-rated Australian gins they’ve ever reviewed.
The island already has an international reputation for premium produce including cheese, beef and seafood, as well as Cape Wickham, one of the world’s most acclaimed golf courses.
The distillery will now showcase the award-winning gin alongside its broader range at Vinexpo Asia and Be Spirits Hong Kong, running from May 26 to 28 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
King Island Distillery Bass Strait’s first single malt whisky releases are scheduled for 2027.
