Overview: Omaha Gin has secured a silver medal at the 2026 NZ Spirits Awards, marking a significant achievement for the Matakana-based distillery just three months after its launch. Distilled by Richard Robson and Sally Marden, the London Dry Gin received praise from judges for its clean, characterful, and balanced profile.
The Full Story
Richard Robson entered his Omaha London Dry Gin in the competition primarily to gather industry feedback and verify the direction of his recipe. He expressed surprise at receiving a medal on their first attempt, noting it was a good feeling to sit alongside top New Zealand and global spirits producers. Robson previously served as winemaker at Matakana Estate for nearly 20 years before deciding two years ago to study distillation and pursue gin production as a solo project with his wife, Sally Marden.
The couple aimed to create something classic and premium within a saturated gin market, avoiding gimmicks such as weird flavors or bizarre botanicals. Their recipe focuses on juniper, spices, and plenty of locally grown citrus without unnecessary additions. Judges at the 2026 NZ Spirits Awards agreed with this approach, describing the spirit as clean, characterful, and balanced.
Production & Profile
The spirit is classified as a London Dry Gin produced in Matakana, New Zealand. The production philosophy prioritizes classic botanicals over novelty additions, utilizing juniper and spices alongside locally grown citrus to construct the flavor profile.
Brand & Industry History
Richard Robson spent nearly two decades as a winemaker at Matakana Estate before transitioning into distillation. He and his wife, Sally Marden, launched the project two years ago following Robson’s decision to study distillation techniques.
What This Means
The award validates the distillery’s strategy in a saturated gin market where they sought to avoid gimmicks and wacky labels. Securing silver on their first entry demonstrates immediate recognition from top NZ and global spirits producers, confirming the viability of their classic approach.
Consumer Takeaway
This release offers a premium London Dry Gin option for consumers seeking a classic profile without gimmicks. The spirit originates from Matakana and represents a successful debut in the national spirits landscape.
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