SPIRITS

Crafting the Perfect Martini: Insights from Never Never Distilling Co. on Gin, Tradition, and Taste

WORDS: Olivia Charlotte PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

In the world of cocktails, few drinks are as iconic and versatile as the martini. For true aficionados, it’s not just a beverage; it’s a ritual, a reflection of craft, and a mark of quality. At its core, the martini allows no shortcuts—there’s no hiding behind mixers or garnishes. According to the team at Never Never Distilling Co., a great martini showcases three key things: the quality of the gin, the bartender’s precision, and your own appreciation for the spirit.

“The beauty of a martini is in its simplicity,” they say. “It can be enjoyed in the most glamorous of cocktail bars in Manhattan or at home while folding laundry after the kids are asleep. Once you discover your preferred way to make a martini, it becomes a lifelong gift.”

This deep affection for the martini has guided much of Never Never Distilling Co.’s gin production. The distillery has become known for its martini-friendly gins, each offering a unique experience for the discerning drinker.

Crafting the Perfect Martini: The Never Never Gin Line-up

When it comes to martini variations, Never Never has made its mark by producing what they call ‘martini gins’—gins specifically designed to shine in this minimalist cocktail. Their flagship Triple Juniper Gin, with its 43% ABV, is a perfect example. “It delivers a juniper-forward flavour with incredible length and texture, dripping in classic London Dry character,” they explain. This gin has become a staple for martini lovers looking for depth and complexity in every sip.

On the more contemporary side is their Oyster Shell Gin, a rare creation that incorporates oyster shells during the distillation process. “It’s not just about the flavour—the shells add mouthfeel and character. Coastal botanicals provide an umami richness, making it ideal for a savoury martini.” Never Never even suggests swapping the traditional olive for a cocktail onion ‘pearl’ to enhance the experience.

Another unique offering is their Beeswax and Olive Gin, a product born from sustainable practices. “We use Ligurian beeswax from Kangaroo Island and locally sourced Kalamata olive brine. The combination of these ingredients with distilled almonds creates a mouthfeel that enhances the olive or citrus-forward martini,” they say.

 

The Gin vs. Vodka Martini Debate: A Matter of Complexity

No discussion about martinis would be complete without addressing the classic debate: gin or vodka? While vodka martinis have enjoyed a resurgence, largely thanks to their association with James Bond, Never Never believes gin reigns supreme.

“Vodka martinis became cool again thanks to Bond and his infamous oligarch parties, but a vodka martini lacks the complexity and nuance of a gin-based one. Vodka martinis are about texture and temperature, while gin brings depth of flavour,” they assert.

Too often, they say, people’s first martini experience involves vodka, leaving them disappointed with an overly diluted, flavourless drink. “A stirred gin martini, poured into a frozen glass with freshly opened vermouth and garnished with an olive or twist, is a completely different experience.”

Australia’s Love Affair with the Martini

The rise of martini culture in Australia is no accident. According to Never Never, Australians are a discerning bunch when it comes to their drinks. The country’s evolving tastes have mirrored those of beer and wine, with consumers demanding greater variety and quality.

“In the ’90s, pubs offered basic wine menus and the same handful of beers on tap. But as people’s tastes grew more sophisticated, the demand for premium, local spirits followed suit. Now, with so much quality gin on the market, it’s only natural that martinis would have their moment,” they explain. “We’re in a new martini age, driven by an appreciation for gin’s complexity and versatility.

In a world full of cocktail options, the martini stands out as a drink for those who appreciate craftsmanship, quality, and a little bit of personal flair. Whether it’s served at a high-end bar or enjoyed at home, the martini remains a timeless celebration of simplicity and sophistication—and for Never Never Distilling Co., it’s a love story that continues to evolve.