Life: Distilled

Our very first gin.

Still made by hand, in our copper still, using the same recipe I wrote when Annette and I started Nonesuch.

Juniper-forward, citrus-bright, and quietly exceptional.

If you haven’t tried Nonesuch Dry Gin, or haven’t had it for a while, now’s a good time to come back to where it all began.

#NonesuchDistillery #TasmanianGin #Gin

This new release is a quiet nod to those early days. But it’s also something completely new.

Introducing Nonesuch Oaked Gin

700ml | 57% ABV | Navy Strength

Limited Release – Only 123 Bottles

We took our signature Dry Gin—the very recipe that helped get us started—and laid it down in casks that once held our own Nonesuch whisky. Over time, something wonderful happened. The bright juniper and citrus notes stayed true, but they were joined by soft layers of toasted oak, vanilla, and warm spice. The result is richer, rounder, and deeper—but still unmistakably Nonesuch.

It’s bottled at Navy Strength (57% ABV), just like the old sailors used to carry. Strong in flavour, long in finish, and full of character.

Why so few bottles?

Because this wasn’t about production efficiency or return on investment. It was a passion project. The crafting of a gin I’ve quietly wanted to make for years—and now, finally, I get to share it with you. Just 123 bottles exist, each one hand-filled and individually numbered.

This one is for those who’ve been with us since the early days—and those who appreciate a great spirit with a story. I hope it finds a good home in your glass.

Warm regards,

Rex

Founder - Nonesuch Distillery

This whisky honours the vital role of the cooper, whose expertise we rely on to ensure that our casks are of the highest quality and are a perfect vessel for our whisky to mature in.

This time the cooper's work didn't end with the making of the cask - we brought him into our distillery to work alongside us distilling the spirit and filling the cask.

The result is a truly extraordinary whisky that is limited to just 40 bottles with an A.B.V. of 50.5%

Sloe Gin is a wonderful addition to many meat dishes and in this recipe it adds a dimension of flavour and a twist on the traditional Easter lamb roast that is sure to impress. It is a unique and delicious way to serve lamb.

Give it a try and let us know what you think.

We have also included a terrific cocktail with the recipe that will pair perfectly with this lamb dish.

These pics are from a photo shoot for Isle Weddings magazine’s May edition.

Our distillery is located on the stunning Rayburn Farm where weddings are regularly hosted and which was the venue for this article.

My little mate, I love this pic of you viewing your humans doing their chores and keeping guard from your elevated position. You were many things but most of all you were Madam Mia.

Soft and gentle as you were, you were never short on bravery (however misplaced) and Annette and I laughed at how you would let the neighbour’s dogs know they were to stay on their side of the fence. Of course you didn’t know the size of those canines and ignorance is obviously bliss when it comes to such things. We loved how your self-satisfied strut after that exchange gave your confidence away. Oh, and the performance you put on if someone pressed the doorbell or knocked on the door. You managed to sound like a bull mastiff until satisfied your humans were not at risk

On the other hand you took on such a guardian role when it came to the other neighbour’s fowls. Your excitement when you caught sight of them through that small gap in the pailings and that look imploring me to pick you up so you could watch them scratch about. You never made a sound while watching them. I think you knew not to scare them and then your haste to scoot in to let Annette know about “your chooks”.

I know you loved me. But, when it came to Annette you showed that same love plus compassion I didn’t know a dog could give. You never left her side as she fought her health battles. That low growl you gave, if I approached you precious mistress if she was snoozing, assured me that no one would be allowed to move toward Annette without your permission until she was awake. Guard duty is a thing you took very seriously.

The other things you were serious about were demanding the last of my ice cream and being my apprentice chef at the BBQ. The latter meaning you got to “taste test” whatever came off the grill. It will be a lonely time cooking the steaks or chops now.

Sometimes your “routines” were exasperating as you demanded we do your bidding. You waiting patiently for Annette to wake of a morning and running to tell me so I put the coffee on. You insisting on your dried banana treat from Annette before she could enjoy her coffee. We will miss that every morning. Your greeting when I got home from the distillery. I will miss giving you your tummy rubs, cuddles and smooches and you “whispering” in my ear or playfully nipping my nose (ever so gently)

As you approached your 14th birthday we became more aware that you were slowing down. Your patrol around the yard was now a gentle walk and you battled with the stairs sometimes and one paw lifted would be your request to be carried up them.

We put all this down to you aging but what we didn’t know was the early stages of Cushings Disease was the culprit.

I really thought that with the skill of your vet we could control that beast and I am forever thankful for the day we had after you came home from treatment when we walked the yard and you snuggled up on the bed with us.

I am thankful for that morning and the companionship we shared even though the beast was sneaking up on you.

Maybe I was too optimistic but, as we left you once more with your vet, I was certain (as was your vet) that we would have more moments. But your little body could fight no longer and that awful call breaking the news that your lungs gave up devastated Annette and I more than I thought possible.