In 2022, I made my first batch of Port style wine from my God-Parents veranda grapevine. We usually would get a big bag full of grapes to eat, but they said they’d been feeding them to the stock. I said ‘that’s a waste, you could make wine’. And so it began…

Since then, I have made a much larger batch of Port style wine from their grapes, and begun a small-batch Gin distillery in our garage. I love nature and the numerous ways in which we are given flavours. Our aim is to challenge the norm with our innovative botanics to create a truly unique Kiwi-as Gin. 

Our name “Pungent Pukeko” comes from inspiration at home - we have a friendly family of Pukeko that live by the pond at the bottom of the hill. Pungent - due to our desire to create bright, bold, and vibrant flavours to challenge your taste buds.

“Backyard Gin” is the second Gin I ever made and the first one to be released, based on fresh ingredients from our lifestyle block. Rimu, Totara, and Kawakawa from our native bush. Various citrus, herbs, and even eucalyptus from our arboretum. All steam distilled above a neutral alcohol, created from whey - a classic example of Kiwi sustainability! At 45% ABV, she punches a kick drunk straight, with a long linger of delicate flavours. Perfect with tonic, soda, even lemonade - or sipped straight, as we like it.