Local Distilleries Shine at 2024 Perth Royal Food Awards

Variations Distillery and Little Stiller Distillery have both secured champion awards at the 2024 Perth Royal Food Awards, highlighting the exceptional quality of Western Australia's craft spirits.

Variations Distillery, based in Ravenswood, clinched the Champion Gin title for their signature gin, alongside gold and silver medals for their other distilled spirits. The distillery, operated by three husband-and-wife teams since its inception in 2021, has quickly made a name for itself in the industry.

Part-owner Nic Willis, wife of head distiller Saul Hart, expressed immense pride in their achievements. "These awards are a testament to Saul's dedication and our team's passion for crafting exceptional spirits," she said. "It's an honor to share this recognition with our supportive community."

Meanwhile, Little Stiller Distillery, located on Mandurah's foreshore, was awarded the Champion Alternative Spirit for their meticulously crafted coffee vodka. Part-owner Jiah Minifie revealed that the product underwent over a year of testing and refinement. "We faced numerous challenges perfecting this vodka," he admitted. "Receiving this champion award is incredibly rewarding and validates our hard work and commitment."

In addition to their award-winning spirits, Little Stiller has expanded their offerings with the recent opening of Stiller Studio, a new function space made possible by a $150,000 grant from the Western Australian State Government's Regional Economic Development program. This waterfront venue is poised to become a sought-after location for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations, further enriching Mandurah's vibrant community.

The 2024 Perth Royal Food Awards, hosted at the Claremont Showgrounds, showcased the outstanding quality and diversity of spirits distilled across Western Australia. The event featured 169 entries from 36 exhibitors, with a panel of 20 independent experts evaluating each product based on criteria such as appearance, aroma, palate, balance, and finish.

Other notable winners included Old Young's Distillery in Henley Brook, which received the Champion Spirit and Champion Distillery awards for their 1829 Gin, and Swan River Distilling from Welshpool, awarded Champion Liqueur for their Port Gin Liqueur.

Head Judge Bill Lark praised the high standard of entries, stating, "The quality of spirits presented this year has been exceptional, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship of our local distillers."

These accolades underscore the growing reputation of Western Australia's distilleries on both national and international stages, as they continue to produce innovative and high-quality spirits that resonate with consumers and critics alike.