This summer, we're feeling extra appreciative of the people in our lives after a pretty rough 2021. And for many of us, that might mean showing our special someone love through presents. But getting the right gift for someone is never an easy task—chocolates and flowers are just not cutting it this year.
So, what better way to share in the good times and toast your loved one than with a boozy gift. But if you're done with the standard, why not go with something a little more thoughtful? This Valentines our pick for some of the best boozy gift ideas come from Western Australia's Republic of Fremantle distillery.
These Aussie spirit makers have a unique process that sees them distil outstanding gin and vodka with wine made from 100-year-old Verdelho grapevines in WA's Swan Valley. It sounds like a bloody big effort, and you'll taste the difference. In fact, the Freo team took out Best International Contemporary Gin at the American Distillers Institute Awards in just their first year.
Not only can you get these award-winning spirits delivered directly to your door, but you can go and sample them for yourself in Fremantle if you're lucky enough to live in WA. Pop into the distillery Bar + Kitchen during the summer to sip on a freh cocktail or join a tour and tasting session.
In the meantime, with a couple of flagship gins and vodka, ready-to-go cocktails and gift vouchers to Republic Of Fremantle's very own 'Gin School’, we've got you covered with boozy Valentines present ideas to please one and all.
Republic Of Fremantle Aromatic Gin
Price: $68.50
Anytime we're talking 'aromatic', we're thinking about those lovely citrus flavours and the kind of drink you might want to take a big ol' sniff of before sipping. Go for Republic of Fremantle's Aromatic Gin if you know the type of friend who might appreciate that.
This drop is bursting with zesty, fresh citrus flavours, some delicate grapefruit notes, and a couple of more subtle apricot tones to throw in the mix as well for some general fresh-as-hell vibes. Your palette might also pick up botanicals, like juniper, coriander, lemongrass, ginger, grapefruit, and apple. This is the kind of gin you want to hero a citrus G&T with and let the flavours speak for themselves.
Republic Of Fremantle Full Bodied Gin
PRICE: $68.50
If you're after something with a little more kick and some bolder flavours, why not try Republic of Fremantle's Full Bodied Gin. This is a much more classic style of dry gin, with some bold herbal and peppery flavours. The kind that leaves a delightful spice finish on the end of your lips after a sip.
We're talking aromas of ripe red fruits and rosemary, with a domineering flavour of juniper and some woody undertones. Expect those spiced botanicals like coriander, pink peppercorn, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and some cranberry and fig. This is the gin ideal for bolder vermouth-based cocktails like a Negroni or as the hero in a Martini.
Republic Of Fremantle Signature Vodka
PRICE: $64.50
This Australian vodka is going to make you completely rethink the classic voddy-soda-lime combo. The signature spirit is made from scratch by double distillation in small batches, not hiding behind any additional flavours or ageing processes.
With honeydew melon and unexpected citrus notes, their signature vodka explores new territy when it comes to the spirits flavour–perfect for aficionados and boozy novices alike.
Bottled Cocktails
Price: $65.00—$74.00
It's fair to say that we all became a little obsessed with pre-batch cocktails over the past little while. As we were stuck inside, they gave us a familiar taste of being out at our favourite bars, with drinks prepared by the best bartenders around town. Well, now we're all used to the best from the comfort of home–we reckon that trend is here to stay for any night in.
Although if we have just one gripe about the popularised bottled cocktail, it's the 1-2 glass serving size they usually come in. That's why we're all about the share-sized 500ml batch you can order from Republic of Fremantle.
They’ve just released a trio of bottled cocktails with their Classic Martini, Vesper Martini and the Negroni Classico all available online- and all expertly made by their bar team, ready to pour, sip and share with great company.
Gin School Gift Voucher
Remember how we mentioned Republic of Fremantle's outstanding distillery and Bar + Kitchen? Well, if you feel like going in there for more than just a drink, the legendary spirit makers are also running their very own 'Gin School'.
This is an epic gift to share with your partner–giving you a direct insight into how it's all made. Don't worry, this is the fun kind of educational learning where you'll, of course, get a gin & tonic on arrival. You'll then run through a tutorial on distilling in a mini pot still from the experts and catch up on the history of distilling. But most importantly, you'll be leaving with your very own 500ml bottle of custom-distilled gin.
The 2.5-hour class takes place alongside the copper still, right in the heart of the distillery. Unfortunately for the rest of the country, these classes are only currently available to Western Australia residents.
After reading this, you've got absolutely no excuse for wrapping any lousy Valentine's Day presents. And we reckon your partner deserves to taste the best boozy tipples this year.
From expertly pre-made cocktails to the ideal Aussie-made base for at-home G&T's–order the perfect show of appreciation from Republic of Fremantle before the year is out.
Editor’s Note: This article is sponsored by Republic of Fremantle and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here. Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, so we get revenue from your purchase.
Image credit: Supplied