Four Pillars ready for annual release

 The 2020 release of Four Pillars’ Bloody Shiraz Gin is expected for early July, and although its creators note it is a month later than usual, the delayed release means the gin will be available around the world until its 2021 release.

The Shiraz grapes picked for the gin in the Yarra Valley have also been harvested “in perfect nick”, despite the recent bushfire season.

Four Pillars co-founder Cameron Mackenzie said they were lucky the immediate surroundings were not affected by the smoke taint.

“2020 will go down as one of the strangest vintages on record. While half the country was on fire and experienced extreme heat, the Yarra was quite the opposite,” said Mackenzie.

“Overall, we had very mild conditions and high rainfall so the region stayed green for most of summer. Low fruit set and small bunch weights intensified the fruit flavours but the cool conditions (yes, a very cool summer) has allowed great spice, red berry and natural acidity.”

Around 100 tonnes of Shiraz has been sourced from Punt Road, Boat O’Craigo, Yering Station and Faraday Estate, as well as the neighbouring vineyards in the Macedon Ranges and Yea Valley.

The 2020 Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin has an alcohol level of 37.8 per cent, and is available in selected retailers, the Four Pillars distillery in Healesville and online, as well as at the new Four Pillars Gin Laboratory in Sydney.