Sydney’s Harbour Bridge stands as a majestic emblem of Australia, a beacon of architectural prowess, and a testament to the country’s vibrant history and culture. In preparation for the iconic structure’s centennial in 2032, Hickson House Distilling Co. introduces an extraordinary tribute with the launch of its HARBOUR BRIDGE GIN SERIES. This series, unravelling year by year, will unveil a new limited-edition gin that encapsulates the essence and legacy of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The connection between Hickson House and the Harbour Bridge extends deep into the annals of history. Nestled in the historic Metcalfe Bond Store in Sydney’s pulsating heart, Hickson House sits on a site integral to the bridge’s construction. In the 1920s and 30s, this building stored the steel and timber essential for erecting the Harbour Bridge, elements that underpin both the bridge and the distillery’s rich heritage. Remarkably, traces of these original materials still abound within the distillery, mingling with the craft of gin making under the bridge’s towering presence.
The inaugural gin, BREAKING GROUND, commemorates the laying of the bridge’s foundation in 1923, a pivotal moment captured on each bottle of this distinguished gin. Crafted with precision, this gin blends the award-winning Hickson House Harbour Strength Gin with native botanicals like Lemon Aspen and Lilly Pilly, authentic to the bridge’s era of construction. At 42% ABV, BREAKING GROUND delivers a symphony of bold juniper, bright citrus, and delicate berry aromas, ideal for enhancing classic cocktails or the signature Harbour Bridge Gin & Tonic.
In celebration of this launch, Hickson House Distilling Co. invites enthusiasts to partake in the Ultimate Sydney Harbour Experience. This exclusive opportunity includes an adventurous climb to the Bridge’s summit, a guided tour of the distillery, and a lavish dining experience, ensuring memories as timeless as the bridge itself.
Available for purchase at the Hickson House Distillery Store, online, selected outlets, and at Sydney Airport in partnership with Heinemann Australia, the Harbour Bridge Gin embodies the spirit of Sydney. During the vibrant VIVID festival, enthusiasts can ascend the Harbour Bridge for a unique perspective on the festivities, culminating in a refreshing gin & tonic at Hickson House’s bar.
The HARBOUR BRIDGE GIN – BREAKING GROUND, priced at $85 for a 700ml bottle, weaves a rich tapestry of juniper, earthy citrus, and subtle sweetness, concluding with a warm, dry finish. This gin is not just a drink but a celebration of Sydney’s heritage, a nod to the past, and a toast to the future.
Hickson House’s signature recipes:
Pour 60ml of Harbour Bridge Breaking Ground Gin into a highball filled with lots of ice.
Top up with Dry Tonic Water and garnish with a lemon wedge and two lemon myrtle leaves.
Muddle 10 fresh basil leaves with 15ml sugar syrup and add together 60ml Hickson House Harbour Bridge Gin and 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice into a shaker filled with ice.
Shake well until cold and fine strain over the rocks in a tumbler. Garnish with a basil sprig.