Melbourne Gin Festival returns this March for a weekend of tastings and masterclasses
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28.01.2025

Melbourne Gin Festival returns this March for a weekend of tastings and masterclasses

Words by Staff Writer

Australia's biggest celebration of juniper spirits is set to return to Port Melbourne this autumn, with the Melbourne Gin Festival bringing together 46 craft distillers for a weekend of tastings, masterclasses and entertainment.

The three-day event will transform The Timber Yard into a gin lover’s paradise, featuring unlimited tastings from both established names and emerging producers. Among the 46 distillers participating, six will make their festival debut alongside more than 30 returning favourites.

Leading the pack is The Bluff Distillery’s Chris Fraser, whose signature London Dry recently claimed the title of Australia’s Best Gin 2024. Fraser will be joined by fellow award-winners Travelling While Standing Still Gin, plus Victorian producers Four Friends Gin and Hobsons Distillery, South Australia’s Green Street Distillery, and NSW-based Finders Distillery.

Melbourne Gin Festival 2025

  • When: Friday March 21 – Sunday March 23
  • Where: The Timber Yard, 351 Plummer St, Port Melbourne
  • Sessions: Four tasting sessions across three days

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

The festival program features three 45-minute masterclasses exploring different aspects of contemporary gin production. Organic Bay will delve into locally-sourced botanicals, Noble Bootleggers will discuss sustainable distilling practices, and Gindu Distillery will guide guests through gin and food pairings.

For those seeking quick hits of knowledge, the outdoor Taste Theatre space will host free 10-minute sessions throughout the festival. These micro-workshops will see distillers team up with Long Rays mixers and Schibello Coffee to share industry insights.

Festival-goers can expect complimentary Long Rays tonic and soda with their tastings, while four food trucks will be on hand to keep hunger at bay. Adding to the atmosphere, the Jackson Combo will return for their third year, roaming the venue with their signature blend of saxophone, guitar and drums.

Each ticket includes unlimited gin tastings over a 3.5-hour session, plus take-home items including a branded tote bag and tasting glass. The event is organised by the Australian Gin Distillers Association Inc. as part of their national Gin Festival roadshow.

Single session tickets start at $70, with bundle options available for groups. Masterclass tickets are priced at $90 and include entry to the following tasting session.

Tickets: ginevents.com.au