Sarina Sugar Shed in Queensland has been making rum from cane sugar for 12 years.
The only one of its kind in Australia, this miniature sugar mill and distillery is located in the heart of Queensland's multi-million-dollar sugar industry and welcomes 17,000 visitors a year.
Sugar Shed Under Proof Rum and Rum Liqueur products are now considered some of the best in the country after winning bronze for their various rums and rum liqueurs at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards every year since 2015.
“As a small innovative boutique distillery who likes to develop new products [these awards are] very rewarding,” said Sarina Sugar Shed coordinator Glenys Mansfield.
“Most products we develop [come from] feedback from our tourism visitors, or attending events such as Good Food and Wine shows.”
Their first winning rum, in 2015, was the Celebration Rum Liqueur.
“Celebration Rum liqueur was developed three years ago as a special product to celebrate our 10 year birthday. It has been so popular it has remained in our production line and is our highest selling product.
“Our Coconut Rum Liqueur was created from coconuts and the cane fields. This spirit embraces local produce and in this instance coconuts and sugarcane,” said Ms Mansfield.
With the main ingredient – cane sugar – sourced from local fields, Sarina Sugar Shed is able to produce a taste experience that is reflective of the area.
“Our uniquely crafted spirits are made from syrup produced onsite from sugarcane grown locally. We can even tell you the cane farm it came from,” said Ms Mansfield.
Sarina Sugar Shed has embraced the opportunity to produce farm to plate products and experiences which assist in building the region’s reputation as a culinary hub and its appeal as a tourism destination.
“Visitors can safely get up close and become engaged with the whole story of sugar from being grown in the cane fields to crafted into a tantalising array of products. Our products are distinctive and unquestionably ours, hand crafted from local produce.
“The valued connection we share with growers and the time honoured traditions that go into making our spirits, Chefs Gusto sauces and ice-cream products produces delicious authentic flavours,” said Ms Mansfield.
Sarina Sugar Shed aspires to continue providing an end to end process of paddock to plate experience, where the provenance of their produce is highlighted through the creation of quality boutique products.
“We proudly display our bronze medal on our winning products. It’s give our products credibility, assuring customers of our quality and high standards of production.
“Winning the awards also enhances our competiveness in the market place and allows us to benchmark our products against other in the industry.
“Our research shows that customers look to engage with the locals, the distiller and take home a bottle of uniquely crafted spirit reminding them of their personalised sugar experience. It also adds value to our story telling component of the tour,” said Ms Mansfield.
You can find Sarina Sugar Shed products at their gift shop, online at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au and at outlets around the Sarina, Mackay, Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Townsville areas.