Beer festivals, particularly of the craft variety, are plentiful. But, despite the nation’s enthusiasm for spirits, there are less public celebrations of them about. That is though until November when gin festival Juniperlooza arrives.

The celebration of the juniper berry is now in its third year and will be taking over The Boatbuilders Yard on South Wharf in Melbourne. It’s a fitting setting for the festival that celebrates a favourite of maritime men. 

“Moored in the depths of gin’s past is a tale of testament, taste and quality. Sixteenth-century sailors were often paid for their labour with rations of alcohol. With the intent to ensure their method of payment was pure, they ‘proved’ the beverage’s worth by creating a gun powder and gin concoction that was then set alight. The bigger the bang the better the beverage,” explains the festival of its seafaring origins.

The event will showcase 18 independent Australian and international gin producers. Each will produce two gin-based drinks for the event, a classic gin and tonic and a signature gin-based cocktail. There will also be ‘Talk & Taste’ sessions available to introduce guests to the producers themselves, and food on hand for the hungry courtesy of The Boatbuilders Yard kitchen.

Juniperlooza will be held for one day only on Saturday, November 18, from 12pm–8pm with entertainment expected to be as free flowing as the spirits, thanks to the involvement of DJs and performance artists.

While producers for this year’s event are yet to be announced, Archie Rose, Gin Palace, Four Pillars, The West Winds, Distillery Botanica Gin, and Kangaroo Island Spirits, have all taken part in previous year’s events.

Tickets to the event can be purchased online.