Turner Stillhouse distillery launches with Tasmanian Three Cuts Gin

Turner Stillhouse is the venture of New York financial professional Justin Turner; former Boag's brewer Brett Coulson also joined the business as co-distiller. 

The pair have launched their business with Three Cuts Gin, a variety distilled with Tamar Valley Roses, Australian limes, and 12 botanicals. 

"We decided to go against the grain," Mr Coulson said. 

"We did not want to put Tasmanian pepperberry or lemon myrtle in our gin, because everybody else does.

"We used loads of fresh Australian limes, some from the Tamar Valley, and we use a white peppercorn instead to give it a bit of warmth in the aftertaste." 

However, Three Cuts Gin is only the start. With plans to also create a Tasmanian rum as well as entering the competitive Tasmanian whiskey market, Mr Turner and Mr Coulson have big plans for Turner Stillhouse.  

Mr Coulson believes that if their first entry is anything to go by, the rest of their products won't have any trouble selling. 

"We've had great feedback so far," he said. 

"Everybody that's tried it, whether they be veteran gin drinkers or new to gin, has really responded well."

After setting up the business around Christmas last year, Turner Stillhouse is already available to buy, with tastings through Tamar Ridge wines, Grindelwald. 

While a completely independent business, Turner Stillhouse have set up shop next to the vineyard, in a former Gunns wine facility next to the Tamar Ridge cellar door and restaurant. 

They are currently renovating the building, and expect to open the distillery to the public in July, with the launch of make-your-own gin masterclasses and educational tours. 

In the meantime, interested drinkers whet their appetites with the company's first product, Three Cuts Gin, at Tamar Ridge. 

Mr Turner describes the variety as "contemporary".

"It's very smooth; a really beautiful gin on its own without having to put a mixer with it," he said. 

"It's different from most Tasmanian gins, because we use those local limes and fresh roses."

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