Overview
Since 2015, winter Down Under has brought bloody excellent news. That's when Four Pillars introduced the world to its now cult-favourite Bloody Shiraz Gin, which is made by steeping shiraz grapes in its OG Rare Dry Gin for eight weeks, then pressing the fruit and blending it with the gin. When the tipple returns for 2024, you'll be able to add the Healesville-based distillery's ninth bloody vintage to your gin shrine.
While 2023 gave the world a Bloody Pinot Noir Gin, too, Four Pillars is sticking with shiraz in 2024. There's a reason that this is one of the most coveted tipples of the year, however: this limited-edition wine-infused concoction is bloody tasty.
Spirits fiends familiar with past vintages will already know that this is a delicious drop — and that the infusion of shiraz grapes gives it its cerise hue. The grapes also provide sweet undertones, but mean that the gin avoids a higher sugar content. It is boozier, though, with an alcoholic content of 37.8 percent (compared to an average 25 percent in regular sloe gin).
Initially it came about when Four Pillars came into possession of 250 kilograms of Yarra Valley shiraz grapes, then did some experimenting. 2024's Bloody Shiraz Gin uses fruit from both the Yarra Valley and Faraday, which is near Bendigo. The end result features notes of citrus and raspberry — and expect to taste spice as well.
Whether you're keen for a single bottle or several, the 2024 gin goes on sale on Saturday, June 8 for $84 at the brand's website, and from Wednesday, May 29 if you're a Four Pillars subscriber. If you have a date with the Four Pillars Healesville Distillery and Four Pillars Sydney Lab in your future, you'll find it there as well.
Bloody Shiraz Gin fans over the years will also be aware that it always comes in a limited-edition bottle, with year's featuring a tablescape artwork by Kris Leombruni.
And the best way to drink it? Four Pillars recommends using it in G&Ts, with just tonic, a squeeze of lemon and a lemon slice as a garnish.
The 2024 Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin will go on sale around the country on Saturday, June 8, or on Wednesday, May 29 if you're a Four Pillars subscriber. Head to the Four Pillars website to make a purchase — or hit up the Four Pillars Distillery at Healesville, Victoria and the Four Pillars Lab in Surry Hills, Sydney.
Four Pillars bloody range images: Benito Martin.