Appreciate a finely handcrafted rare spirit? Beneath Driver Lane is the place to be this month. Across three Thursdays throughout June, the alluring underground bar is being commandeered by Western Australia’s Republic of Fremantle in a series of private vault tasting sessions. Until July 25, you can taste the spirits in a trio of exclusive cocktails.
Hot on the back of yet another major international award, the renowned distillery has swooped in to give Melburnians an exclusive taste of its grape-to-glass spirits and a deeper understanding of the innovative technique few other distilleries in the world are yet to master. The takeover offers a special opportunity to experience the distinctive flavour of Verdelho grapes harvested from 100-year-old vines in the Swan Valley of Western Australia, as Republic of Fremantle produces its own base spirit from wine.
Beneath Driver Lane is no stranger to supporting small, independent producers, and with over 500 bottles in its collection, you’re sure to discover a new tipple or two during this multi-sensory experience. In celebration of the event, venue manager Kealan Brady has developed a limited-release cocktail menu showcasing the distillery’s Signature Vodka, Aromatic Gin and Full-Bodied Gin.
“We’re excited to be working with Republic of Fremantle on this exclusive preview of their range of spirits. The Republic Gins have a distinctive flavour profile, while their Signature Vodka has a really good texture and backbone,” says Kealan.
“Their Aromatic Gin is paired with grape-based products Lillet and Marsala wine in our Sicilian Martini, with other cocktail pairings working to highlight the textures and flavours of each spirit. We can’t wait for Melbourne gin and vodka lovers to experience what are some of Australia’s only crafted grape-based spirits,” says Kealan.
Beneath Driver Lane's beloved blues band program will continue throughout the Republic of Fremantle takeover.
