Macau, long known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife, is quietly establishing itself as a surprising hub for innovative spirits, thanks to one determined Kiwi pilot and his ambitious new gin distillery. Nick Fuge, a former pilot, has traded his aircraft for stills, establishing ‘The Able House,’ Macau’s first-ever gin distillery, and it’s already generating considerable buzz, attracting attention from industry experts and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Fuge’s venture is a powerful testament to the idea that the best ideas can come from the most unexpected places, demonstrating that the pursuit of quality and innovation knows no borders.
The story of ‘The Able House’ began with a simple passion: Fuge’s deep-rooted love for gin and his desire to craft a spirit that truly reflected his heritage. Growing up in New Zealand, he developed an appreciation for the country’s native botanicals and the art of distillation. After years of flying, he made a bold decision – a career change that has now landed him at the helm of a burgeoning spirits brand in the heart of Macau.
A Terroir-Driven Approach
At the core of ‘The Able House’’s philosophy is a meticulously considered approach to terroir – the profound influence of environmental factors on flavor. Recognizing that a gin’s character is inextricably linked to its origin, Fuge has partnered with Sarah Watts, a skilled botanist, to ensure a truly exceptional product. Together, they are undertaking a painstaking process of selecting and utilizing local ingredients, initially concentrating on New Zealand natives like horopito and kawakawa. These aren’t just decorative additions; Watts is meticulously analyzing their chemical compounds to maximize their contribution to the final spirit. This approach promises a gin that’s both familiar to New Zealand gin lovers – capturing that classic juniper-forward character – and distinctly Macau-influenced, incorporating the unique flavors of the region.
“We’re really focused on showcasing the potential of terroir,” explains Fuge. “We want to create a gin that’s authentically Macau, but with a strong connection to my heritage. It’s about more than just making a drink; it’s about telling a story through the ingredients.”
Beyond London Dry
The distillery’s initial release will be a London Dry style gin, a solid foundation for the brand. While a respected classic, it represents just the beginning for ‘The Able House.’ Fuge and Watts aren’t resting on their laurels. They’re already hinting at experimental batch releases, pushing the boundaries of flavor and exploring unconventional botanicals. Early discussions point towards incorporating local fruits – perhaps guava or dragon fruit – and even investigating the use of seaweed, reflecting Macau’s coastal location. “We’re not just about the London Dry,” says Watts. “We want to experiment with different techniques and ingredients to create truly unique expressions. We’re researching maceration methods, exploring different fermentation processes, and playing with the distillation process itself.”
A “Farm-to-Bottle” Philosophy
Adding to the brand’s appeal is its commitment to a “farm-to-bottle” philosophy. ‘The Able House’ is embracing local sourcing whenever possible, forging relationships with farmers and suppliers within the Macau region. They’re controlling every step of the production process, from the selection of botanicals to the final bottling, ensuring unparalleled quality and transparency. This dedication is already being recognized within the spirits industry. As noted by *Spirited Zine*, this approach is “a really good trend in the spirits industry,” representing a growing consumer desire for authenticity and traceability. The brand is also utilizing sustainable practices, minimizing its environmental impact.
What This Means for Gin Lovers
The emergence of ‘The Able House’ signals a broader shift in spirits production, demonstrating that innovative gin brands are popping up globally. According to *Difford’s Guide*, this trend indicates a potential influx of unique gins and, more importantly, a greater selection of interesting cocktail options for consumers. The focus on terroir and experimentation suggests a move away from mass-produced, standardized spirits, leading to a richer, more diverse cocktail landscape. With a passionate founder, a commitment to terroir, and a dedication to experimentation, ‘The Able House’ is poised to become a significant player in the global gin landscape, offering a fresh perspective and a truly distinctive taste. The future of Macau’s spirits industry looks bright, fuelled by a Kiwi pilot’s vision and a dedication to crafting exceptional gin.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/video/2025/12/08/meet-the-kiwi-pilot-who-built-macaos-first-gin-distillery
