I started making beer with my Uncle Tom at Booroobin, nearly Maleny in 2013 or ’14. Tom lived on a stunning block with views of the Mary Valley. He was completely off the grid, with no electricity, internet or mobile reception to speak of. It was the perfect escape from the city—and my corporate life—and I tried to get out there at least twice a month.
My interest in beer-making soon led to learning the craft of neutral spirits and gin. Fast forward to 2015 and I had resolved to buy a piece of land where I could set up a small distillery that I could operate on weekends.
More than anything, I wanted to pursue a passion outside my career and life in the city. I often reflected on my grandparents’ 2000-acre grazing ‘hobby’ farm in central Queensland. I suppose I found distilling to be the perfect compromise—out in the country with a purpose, but not too much work needed on the farm!
Serendipitously in February 2015, Cass and I met (like the modern people we are) on Tinder. On our second date, over one or two martinis, I was telling her about my gin-making plans. The wonderful Cass eventually joined me on a visit to my family in Booroobin and hit it off with them instantly. Even their nasty biting cat loved Cass, and inexplicably slept on her all weekend.
The pinnacle moment happened one evening when Cass and I were looking at properties in Dayboro. We realised how ideal this location was: one hour from Cass’ work (the same commute time she already had)—plus we could get a dog and live in the country. And so, we did! A few years, two dogs, a 30-year-old self-built pole house and one tiny distillery later, here we are: making beautiful small-batch spirits.
There’s nothing like a classic love story: our love for our little family, our home, our local community of friends and the process of making simply good gin from scratch. It’s a wholehearted story from beginning to end, from us to you. And there’s no better place to start than with our truly classic, Dry Australian Gin.
We invite you to taste a drop of the region and experience the flavours of slow-made Laceys Hill spirits for yourself.
— John, Cass, Pepper & Molly
