Northern Distilling

Northern Distilling is Darwin’s own nano-batch distillery — handcrafting award-winning spirits at the Darwin Waterfront in collaboration with our restaurant, Snapper Rocks.

We’re not chasing volume. We’re chasing flavour, authenticity, and a true Taste of the Territory. Every batch is distilled in a 50-litre pot still, producing just 42 bottles at a time — each one unique, seasonal, and made with care. On average, every bottle represents 13 minutes of hands-on labour, from hand-peeling botanicals to the final seal. Nothing automated. Nothing outsourced. Just craft.

Founded by David Robinson — internationally awarded bartender, restaurateur, and spirits professional — Northern Distilling was born from frustration at the lack of genuine Territory spirits. With Snapper Rocks inspired by local produce, it only made sense to create spirits that could showcase the Northern Territory on the national and international stage.

In 2020, our first gin, Troppo, was released — a vibrant, tropical gin blending classic botanicals with local Territory ingredients like Kensington Pride mangoes, lime, ruby grapefruit, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. The result? A bold, expressive flavour bomb that quickly made waves.

Since then, our range has grown:

• Troppo Series: Troppo Hazy Mango Gin, Toppo Yuzu Gin,
• Ancient Lands Series (our super-premium line): Ancient Lands Kakadu Plum Gin, Ancient Lands Finger lime Gin, and Ancient Lands Dalirrgang Gin.

Along the way, we’ve earned a reputation far beyond Darwin. Trophy for Contemporary Gin at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards 2024, Best in Class Contemporary Gin at Tasting Australia, plus numerous national gold medals and international medals.

Not bad for a side hustle distilling in nano-batches — one bottle at a time.

New Products