Tim was selected from an international field of top distillers across all spirit categories. It’s an incredible honour to receive such a deeply personal validation to both Tim and our whole production team.

The result was no doubt influenced by the string of international and local accolades the tiny South Australian brand has been able to achieve over the past 12 months, taking on the giants of the industry.

It’s been a meteoric rise considering Tim has only been a full-time distiller for 4 years having spent the previous 10 years in the world of finance. While living in London he was inspired by his formidable and encouraging grandmother, Nancy, and influenced by family lore of his British forebearers’ founding of Gilbys Gin in the 19th century. 

After returning to Adelaide he spent more time tinkering and dreaming about making gin than anything else. His backyard brewery contained a variety of distilling equipment that he used to hone his skills and create a library of flavours before deciding to take the next step professionally. 

It is Tim’s fearless approach to pursuing his passions that has assisted in driving the success of the brand, alongside good friends, George Georgiadis and Sean Baxter.

“It’s not every day you turn around to your wife and suggest building a gin brand with your entire life savings. From the outset, I haven’t really had any other choice other than to succeed.”

We set out with a focus on creating a special gin brand and have always sought out opportunities to be judged against the best in the business. We are stoked to have scored gold medals in every competition we entered in 2021, both in Australia and abroad. 

The Australian small spirits industry is kicking goals all over the globe. We, and others like us, have worked hard to build a product that is truly seen as world class.

Tim’s win is a sign of the respect that is being shown to Australian distillers worldwide. He’s worked his ass off and sacrificed a lot, so for him to be celebrated as the best this year is a credit to his dedication

The Australian small spirits industry is kicking goals all over the globe. We, and others like us, have worked hard to build a product that is truly seen as world-class.

Tim’s win is a sign of the respect that is being shown to Australian distillers worldwide. He’s worked his ass off and sacrificed a lot so for him to be celebrated as the best this year is a credit to his dedication.

Tim's passion for innovation and leadership of our young distillery team is something truly special. Well done Tim!