If summer has a flavour, it’s citrus. And this year, it’s coming straight out of the Central Coast hinterland.
Award-winning Distillery Botanica has launched its first-ever triple sec, giving classic cocktails a distinctly Australian twist just in time for long afternoons, balmy nights and an inevitable run of margaritas.
Crafted by master distiller Philip Moore, the Triple Sec Valencia Liqueur is made using sun-ripened Valencia oranges grown in Kulnura orchards, not far from the distillery itself. The result is bright, zesty and aromatic, with a depth of flavour that feels more considered than your average cocktail cabinet staple.
This is not just a supporting act. It’s sunshine in a glass.
Built for the classics (and then some)
Triple sec might be best known as a background player, but Distillery Botanica’s version is confident enough to stand out. In a margarita, it lifts the tequila and lime with clean citrus punch. In a cosmopolitan, it complements cranberry and lime without overpowering. In a breakfast martini, it brings a subtle marmalade note that feels right at home.
It also works neatly outside the shaker. Enjoy it neat, over ice or turned into a simple summer spritz with prosecco, soda water and a slice of fresh Valencia orange.
Versatility is the point here. It mixes easily with vodka, tequila and rum, making it a useful bottle to have on hand whether you’re hosting or just experimenting.
A garden distillery worth the detour
Distillery Botanica is located on the site formerly known as the Fragrant Gardens in Erina, and it’s one of those places that feels deliberately removed from the rush. Within the grounds is a dedicated gin garden complete with juniper bushes, citrus trees and garden beds filled with botanicals used across the range, including rosemary, turmeric and lemon myrtle.
There’s even a martini glass fountain, which tells you pretty clearly this isn’t your average cellar door.
The distillery has built a reputation since opening in 2007 as one of Australia’s true small-scale pioneers, with Moore’s Dry Gin becoming the first Australian gin to win Gold at the London International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2017. Since then, the range has expanded to include Blood Orange Gin, Terrigal Rum, vodka and a collection of internationally awarded liqueurs.
The new Triple Sec Valencia joins recent additions like Pearl Crush Gin and Koko Noir Chocolate Raspberry Liqueur, rounding out a lineup that leans heavily on flavour and balance rather than gimmicks.
More than just a tasting
If you’re making a day of it, Distillery Botanica offers a full menu of experiences, from casual tastings through to hands-on distilling workshops.
Visitors can book everything from gin and vodka distilling sessions to cocktail-making classes and guided tours through the gardens and distillery. There’s even a monthly tour led by Philip Moore himself for those who want a deeper dive into the process and philosophy behind the spirits.
And yes, you can add a cheese platter to any experience. Because of course you can.
The details
The Triple Sec Valencia Liqueur is available now in a 500ml bottle, priced from $59, and can be purchased at the distillery or online.
Distillery Botanica is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm throughout summer, with additional trading days in the lead-up to Christmas.
For more information, bookings or to shop the full range, head to distillerybotanica.com.
If your summer cocktails have been relying on imported bottles for too long, this might be the season to bring it back home.
