It's been a long time between G&Ts, but beloved Aussie gin festival Junipalooza is finally making its way back to Melbourne after COVID crushed our thirsty dreams two years in a row. Launched back in 2013 as the brainchild of Caroline Ashford (aka The Gin Queen), the drinks fest is set to take over Port Melbourne's Timber Yard from Friday, October 21–Sunday, October 23. Gin aficionados can get their kicks sampling over 100 different creations from more than 50 local and international distilleries. Meet the makers as you quaff gin from the likes of Melbourne's own Patient Wolf, Four Pillars and Naught; Sydneysiders Archie Rose, Poor Toms and Ester; Sweden's Hernö; and Brighton Gin out of the UK. Plus, more Aussie gems including Never Never, Bass & Flinders, Kangaroo Island Distillery and Dasher & Fisher. You'll get a keepsake tasting glass to house all those juniper-based delights, and can try the gins either neat or paired with tonic. And if you sip something you really like, be sure to hit the pop-up shop, which'll be stocked with bottles from the festival's full lineup. Junipalooza Melbourne will run on October 21 (5–9pm), 22 (11am–3pm & 4–8pm) and 23 (11am–4pm). Images: Junipalooza Sydney, by Jacquie Manning
