Eliza's Claim Dry Gin 700ml

Eliza's Claim Dry Gin is a crystal clear dry style gin which combines 12 carefully selected botanicals. On the nose, notes of citrus, honey and coriander. In the mouth, dry with a smooth texture and pronounced flavour intensity. Citrus forward with spicy notes of ginger, Manuka honey and liquorice linger on the palate.

• Distillery: Kaimai Brewing & Distilling Co
• Type: Dry Gin
• Region: Karangahake Gorge, Waikino, New Zealand
• Alcohol: 47%
• Volume: 700ml
• Goes with: Ice, premium tonic, orange and/or lime garnish

Eliza's Claim Dry Gin is a versatile gin that is perfect for any occasion and is sure to delight and impress. Infused with citrus and Manuka Honey, makes it a unique and flavourful gin that is perfect for gin-lovers looking for something special. Crafted with care, this gin is made with a selection of botanicals including Juniper berries, Coriander, Citrus Peel and Orris Root, which are then blended with Rosemary and Manuka Honey to create a truly exceptional gin. Artisan distilling at it's finest and crafted at the mysterious Waikino Hotel in the Karangahake Gorge. Get delivered direct to your door or treat someone special to a great gift. Buy right here.

Kaimai Brewing and Distilling Co. originated as a humble hobby that blossomed into an unwavering passion. As Wayne and Kathy Chowles, the owners, delved into the world of brewing, they found themselves naturally gravitating towards distilling—a path many brewers aspire to tread. Their journey commenced some years ago when a surplus of overripe Feijoa and a small still led to the creation of their first batch of spirits, albeit average, but imbued with the promise of greater things to come.

Through countless hours of reading, learning, and experimentation, their craft evolved, and their spirits earned the title of "fine Spirits." The pinnacle of recognition arrived when their Elizas Claim Gold Gin garnered a coveted gold medal at the 2021 NZ Spirits awards.

Drawing inspiration from tales of the gold mining era and Wayne's background in the mining industry, they embarked on an ambitious venture. Their mission was to craft a hand-crafted, single-batch gin that paid homage to the rich heritage of the Karangahake Gorge and its environs—the land, its people, and its storied history.

The year 2020 marked a significant milestone for them as they acquired a cellar door at the historic Waikino Hotel in the heart of the Karangahake Gorge. This perfect venue allowed them to meet the public and proudly display their exceptional products. Their gin, enriched with pure artisan spring water, boasts a harmonious blend of locally and internationally sourced botanicals, culminating in an exquisitely distinctive flavor.

Since then, their portfolio has expanded to encompass five styles of gin, a spiced rum, and the latest addition—a delightful honey moonshine. With each offering, Kaimai Brewing and Distilling continues to epitomize a dedication to quality and a celebration of their local heritage, inviting enthusiasts to savor the essence of their craft in every sip.

Who Was Eliza?

Wayne and Kathy's Gin commemorates the life of a captivating woman who resided in the scenic Kaimai region during the late 19th century. Eliza Earl was born on January 24, 1868, in Greerton, Tauranga, and was the seventh child of Stephen and Eliza, who settled in the area during the early 1860s.

Until the age of 13 in 1881, Eliza attended Greerton school before relocating with her family to a farm near Katikati, situated along the Whatakau River at Aongatete.

Just before her 21st birthday, Eliza married Joseph Squinobal, an Italian immigrant and coachman in the New Zealand mail service, in January 1889 in Katikati. They settled in Te Aroha, and on March 23, 1890, Eliza gave birth to their first child, a son named Albert George Squinobal. Tragically, shortly after George's birth, Joseph disappeared, and little was known about him until his death in the Waikato in January 1903, at the age of 75.

Following Joseph's mysterious disappearance, Eliza and young George returned to the family farm near Katikati. There, she caught the attention of a young man named William Tilsley, who, along with his brother John, had been engaged in mining activities in Waihi. They later ventured south to prospect for gold deeper in the Kaimai ranges, setting up their camp on the Earl family farm. William and Eliza developed a lasting relationship that endured throughout her life, though they never formalized their bond in marriage.

In April 1896, William made a significant discovery—a gold-bearing vein—and registered a claim named "Eliza," in honor of the love of his life. Subsequently, he sold the claim to a local consortium, and together with Eliza, they journeyed northward towards Thames. Although not legally married, they lived together as a devoted couple and were blessed with a son named William on April 1, 1897.

Eliza fell pregnant again in 1899 and, on January 27, 1900, gave birth to a daughter named Violet. Sadly, baby Violet's life was brief, as she passed away after only 12 hours. Tragically, Eliza herself passed away seven days later. Today, both Eliza and baby Violet rest in eternal peace, buried together at the Totara Cemetery in Thames, forever remembered and celebrated through Wayne and Kathy's Gin—a testament to the enduring legacy of a remarkable woman and her profound connection to the captivating Kaimai region.

• Silver - 2023 London Spirits Awards
  
• Silver - 2022 NZ Spirits Awards