Robbers Dog Distillery
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In partnership with Robbers Dog Distillery
The Barossa Valley might be known as wine country to most, but Robbers Dog Distillery is doing its bit to help change people’s perception about what the area has to offer. Owners Rob and Cath Davies’ aim is to showcase another side of the region with their core range of spirits that include gins, rums and moonshine.
Located inside an old bank that was robbed three times by the infamous Bicycle Bandit, the family-run distillery places a focus on high-quality, small-batch spirits. From grain to glass, the Davies’ have full control over the process, overseeing the entire distilling production in-house. They pride themselves on using locally sourced grains and fruits, helping support local businesses whenever possible.
Committed to sustainability, Robbers Dog recycles organic waste and water and powers their operation using solar energy, with 110 solar panels installed on the distillery’s roof. An underground water tank is utilised for cooling during the distillation process, while Robbers Dog works in collaboration with other businesses, including one that provides dry fruit for their cocktails, to help keep the local economic ecosystem turning over. The distillery is fitted with locally sourced materials, including 100-year-old cast iron stools from a demolished hotel and tin from an old shearing shed, while the cellar door features a shelf made from wood reclaimed during the restoration of Adelaide Oval.
Found in selected bottle shops across the state, Robbers Dog’s assortment of spirits includes their traditional Caribbean-style Bicycle Bandit Rum, tasty Coffee Vodka (great for those early mornings after a big night) and classic Matilda Gin – a darker, tangier spirit made from nine natural botanicals including cubeb berries. There’s also a Sour Mash Moonshine, three types of cellos (lemon, orange and lime) and a flavoursome Bert Rum with a liquorice finish that’s great for making cocktails.
Open Friday to Sunday (Wednesday and Thursday by special appointment), stop by the dog-friendly cellar door for a personalised tasting experience with Rob, who is more than happy to answer all your questions about the distillery and share his passion for spirits.
Try a glass while enjoying a selection of bar snacks or settle in for a session and grab one of the distillery’s handcrafted pizzas made using fresh, local ingredients. Our pick is the Hot ‘N Spicy – a flavour punch of spicy jalapenos, sliced pepperoni and onion topped with mozzarella cheese that pairs well with a glass of Bicycle Bandit Rum. Delicious!
Robbers Dog Distillery is located at 59 Melrose Street, Mount Pleasant. For more information, visit robbersdog.net.au.
