"I Don’t Like Gin"

A love letter to the gin-averse — and a gentle nudge to give it another go.

If you've ever said "I don’t like gin," you’re not alone. It's one of the most common things we hear at Distillery Botanica — and honestly, we love it. Why? Because it usually means we’re about to convert another gin sceptic into a true believer.

Whether you’re scarred by memories of bad G&Ts or think all gin tastes like dish soap, this blog is for you.

Why People Say They Don’t Like Gin

You might not like Gin but did you know it was used in 253 cocktail recipes?

If you’ve written off gin as too strong, too floral, or just not your thing, you’re probably remembering a particular style of gin — and not the full story.
Many people who think they dislike gin have only tried mass-produced versions or overly perfumed gins. But in reality, not all gins are created equal.

Discovering the Best Gin for Beginners

At Distillery Botanica, we do things differently.

Our gins are crafted on the NSW Central Coast using fresh, seasonal botanicals grown right here in our garden. We hand-pick ingredients like lemon myrtle, chamomile, and pink grapefruit to distil in small batches — creating smooth, balanced flavours that are a far cry from the gins you may have tried before.

If you’re new to gin, or easing back in, we suggest starting with:

• Moore’s Dry Gin – a clean, crisp Australian gin with subtle citrus and native botanicals.

• Pearl Crush Gin – a floral-forward, delicately dry gin that’s ideal for sipping or a luxe martini.

• Blood Orange Gin – bursting with vibrant citrus and perfect in a spritz or gin and soda.

Gin Tasting on the Central Coast

Still unsure? Join us for a gin tasting experience at our distillery in Erina.
We offer guided tastings so you can explore a variety of flavour profiles — from earthy and herbaceous to light and floral. You’ll learn what goes into making award-winning Australian gin and how to pair it perfectly with tonic, soda, or seasonal garnishes.

It’s the perfect intro for people who think they don’t like gin — and a great excuse for a day out.

Still Not Convinced?

That’s okay too. We also distil small-batch vodka, liqueurs, and other delicious drops made right here at Distillery Botanica. But we will gently suggest you give gin one last chance — preferably with a beautiful view, a fresh garnish, and a local expert pouring your tasting paddle.

Visit Distillery Botanica

If you’ve been searching “gin I actually like”, “best Australian gin,” or “gin tasting near me”, your journey might just end here.

📍 Visit us at our lush garden distillery on the Central Coast of NSW
🍸 Enjoy tastings and locally made gins
🌿 Discover what gin can really be — even if you swore you didn’t like it.

• I don't like gin. Is there anything for me at Distillery Botanica?

  Absolutely! Distillery Botanica offers a range of spirits beyond traditional gin, including liqueurs and vodka. Their tasting experiences are designed to introduce visitors to a variety of flavours, some of which might surprise you. Many guests who were skeptical about gin have found a new appreciation after exploring the diverse offerings.

• What makes Distillery Botanica's gin different from others

  Distillery Botanica's gins are crafted using fresh, garden-grown botanicals, resulting in unique flavour profiles. For instance, their Moore’s Dry Gin was the first Australian gin to win Gold at the London International Wine & Spirit Competition. The emphasis on local ingredients and innovative distillation techniques sets their products apart.

• Can I try before I buy?

  Yes, you can! Distillery Botanica offers tastings at their cellar door, allowing you to sample a variety of their spirits. This is a great opportunity to discover flavours you might enjoy, even if you're not typically a gin enthusiast.

• Are there any experiences tailored for newcomers to gin?

  Definitely. The distillery offers guided tours and cocktail-making classes that are perfect for those new to gin. These experiences provide insights into the distillation process and how different botanicals influence flavour, making it an educational and enjoyable introduction.

• What if I still don't like gin after my visit?

  That's perfectly okay! Distillery Botanica aims to provide a welcoming environment for all visitors. Even if gin isn't your favourite, the beautiful gardens, engaging experiences, and other spirit offerings ensure a memorable visit. Plus, you might find a liqueur or cocktail that suits your taste.