It’s all about gin at this Macedon Ranges distillery, which is run by gin-loving husband and wife Gary Jago and Catherine Crothers. Big Tree Distillery is set up on Jack’s Springs Farm, and uses the farm’s rainwater and locally foraged botanicals (where possible) to make excellent small-batch gins. Botanicals like southern sassafras are infused into the gin and might decorate the colourful gin bottles, which feature paintings by artists Sarah Gabriel and David Reynolds.
You can sample the best of the range through a deconstructed gin flight. This lets you try the three signature gins and adjust the tonic, garnishes and ice to your liking. Next, move on to a classic G&T, Negroni, or the Big Tree Hugo cocktail that marries Ruby’s Elderflower Gin Liqueur (made with hand-picked elderflowers from the farm) with prosecco and mint.
As for food, the Big Tree Picnic Box is a spread of local cheeses, olives, crackers and salami; and the crowd-favourite pizzas might even make an appearance. Sink into the lounge inside and drink and snack with views of the farm’s green pastures. Or soak up some sun at a shaded picnic table outside, or a more private spot overlooking the Cobaw State Forest.
