Overview: After being placed in administration just over a year ago, Western Australian distillery Old Young’s has made an extraordinary comeback by winning top honors for its gin and gin & tonic at the prestigious 2026 ADI International Spirits Awards. The remarkable turnaround marks a new chapter for the brand as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.
The Full Story
Old Young’s entered voluntary administration in September 2025, following an aggressive expansion period that included large-scale tourism ambitions and hospitality operations. However, rather than signaling the end of the brand, this tumultuous period ultimately forced the business to strip away complexity and return to what made Old Young’s famous – producing world-class spirits.
Founder James Young describes the 18 months leading up to administration as “one of the darkest” periods in his life. The emotional toll was immense, with Young waking up every night worrying about debts, investors, and staff instead of being excited about what was coming off the still. However, this difficult period ultimately led to a renewed focus on simplifying the business and returning it to its core spirit – making great booze.
Production & Profile
The distillery’s recent success is built upon years of experience in crafting exceptional gin using traditional methods. Old Young’s Common Gin (Navy Strength Gin) has been awarded Best Gin in the World at the 2026 ADI International Spirits Awards, while its signature 1829 Gin took home both Best Classic Gin and Best Gin & Tonic in the World awards.
The distillery also recently placed Top 5 in the Fever-Tree G&T Cup. To celebrate this achievement and their upcoming anniversary, Old Young’s is releasing two special products – Black Cherry Gin (a cult favorite) and Cream of the Crop, a limited-edition gin created from the first and most flavorful 50ml collected from every single batch of Old Young’s 1829 gin over the past decade.
Brand & Industry History
Old Young’s has come a long way since its inception in Western Australia. Initially founded with ambitions to become a leader in spirits production, the brand faced numerous challenges during its early years. However, it was this perseverance that ultimately led to their success.
The distillery’s dedication to traditional methods and quality ingredients has earned them recognition within the industry, as evident from their impressive array of awards. This commitment is reflected not only in their products but also in the efforts they make towards sustainability and community engagement.
What This Means
Old Young’s remarkable comeback serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination within the spirits industry. The brand’s ability to adapt and refocus its efforts has allowed them to emerge stronger, with an even clearer vision for their future.
This achievement also highlights the growing importance of innovation and diversification in maintaining a competitive edge within this ever-evolving market. Brands must be willing to take calculated risks, innovate products, and invest in people if they wish to remain relevant.
Consumer Takeaway
The success of Old Young’s serves as an inspiration for consumers who value artisanal spirits produced with care and dedication. Their range offers a unique blend of innovative flavors combined with traditional craftsmanship.
This is not just about winning awards – it’s about delivering exceptional quality that meets the increasingly discerning tastes of gin enthusiasts around the world.
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