Today we are showcasing the passion of one of our bartenders, Stu, and the work and dedication to creating his signature spring cocktail, the Wild Gum Southside. In collaboration with The Ballarat Wildlife Park and using our award winning Gallivanter Gin, Stu has been able to concoct a cocktail that not only tastes amazing but also supports the ongoing conservation work of The Ballarat Wildlife Park.
What's the story that inspired your cocktail’s concept?
The starting point was really wanting to support The Ballarat Wildlife Park. This amazing local business which is not only an educational asset to Ballarat, it is essential in supporting Australia's wildlife. With fires, droughts and floods, our native wildlife really deserves a break.
What local ingredients inspired the creation of your cocktail?
Rather than starting with the ingredient, it happened the other way around. I was looking for an ingredient that's associated with Ballarat Wildlife Park and Gum trees are inextricably linked to Koalas, and Koalas are a mainstay at the Wildlife Park. Initially I thought that Gum leaves were not a suitable ingredient, however, after some research and experimentation with different gum leaves and concentrations, I'm so glad I persevered with what was initially a 'crazy' idea.
How did your partnership with local businesses influence the flavour profile?
The Ballarat Wildlife Park has really gotten on board with the concept, with the magical opportunity to meet the Koalas and join them in their habitat as we captured content making cocktails in front of Harvey. The taste of the gum leaf is evident in the cocktail, as well as the colour, and garnishing with a gum leaf makes no secret of the taste origins. I love the fact that something so common and literally growing on the side of the road all over Australia has become something so tasty, fresh, and unexpected. I also enjoy the association of Gum trees with Koalas and the Ballarat Wildlife Park, and that drinking this cocktail can benefit our iconic Australian wildlife!
How do the unique qualities of Itinerant Spirits’ products pair with the local ingredients you chose?
The Gallivanter Gin does the heavy lifting, showcasing its balanced melody of botanical flavours, with the gum leaf, lime, and mint just complimenting rather than dominating the taste. I think we got the proportions just right and I encourage you to try it for yourself at Itinerant Spirits.
