Overview: In a stunning turn of events, Australian distillery Old Young’s has triumphantly defied predictions of closure after entering voluntary administration last September. The Swan Valley-based company not only survived but thrived, taking home top honours at the prestigious 2026 ADI International Spirits Awards in California.
The Full Story
Old Young’s Common Gin won Best Gin in the World and its signature 1829 Gin took out Best Gin & Tonic. The remarkable achievement marked a triumphant return to form for James Young, founder of Old Young’s Distillery. After months of sleepless nights, stress, and fear of losing both his business and family home, Young opted not to abandon ship but instead refocused the company on its core mission: producing world-class spirits.
Following an aggressive expansion period that included ambitious tourism plans and a $30 million “Cathedral of Gin” project – which was ultimately shelved due to financial constraints – Old Young’s had entered voluntary administration in September. Many believed this marked the end for the Western Australian distillery, but James Young proved them wrong.
Production & Profile
The secret to Old Young’s success lies in its commitment to using only the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. The company sources its Tuscan juniper berries from Italy, which provide an incredibly rich, piney flavour profile unlike anything else on the market. This unique approach has earned Old Young’s a reputation as one of Australia’s leading distilleries.
Old Young’s signature gin is produced using a combination of traditional pot stills and modern techniques to create complex yet balanced flavours. The use of Tuscan juniper berries sets it apart from other gins, giving the spirit an unmistakable character that has resonated with critics and consumers alike.
Brand & Industry History
The Old Young’s story began many years ago when James Young founded the distillery in Swan Valley. Initially focused on producing gin using traditional techniques, the company quickly gained a loyal following for its high-quality spirits. However, it was not until recently that Old Young’s began to gain international recognition.
With multiple award-winning gins under their belt and recent placements at top industry events like the Fever Tree Gin & Tonic Cup (where they placed Top 5), Old Young’s is now firmly established as a force in the global gin market. This remarkable turnaround serves as testament not only to James Young’s perseverance but also his commitment to staying true to his vision.
What This Means
The win at the 2026 ADI International Spirits Awards has far-reaching implications for both Old Young’s and the broader Australian distilling industry. By showcasing the country’s ability to produce world-class spirits, this achievement highlights Australia’s growing reputation as a major player in global gin production.
Furthermore, this recognition will undoubtedly boost local sales of Australian gins abroad, further cementing the nation’s position within the international spirits market. The triumph also underscores James Young’s determination and innovative approach to distillation – qualities that have earned Old Young’s its place among top industry leaders.
Consumer Takeaway
For consumers seeking a truly authentic gin experience, Old Young’s offers an unparalleled level of quality and uniqueness. By sourcing exceptional juniper berries from Tuscany, the company creates spirits with rich flavour profiles that set it apart from mass-produced gins. This focus on detail ensures every bottle is not only exceptional but also distinctly Australian.
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