Ever thought about making your own spirits at home? Whether you're a gin drinker, whiskey lover, cocktail connoisseur, or just someone who's thought about it before but never tried it.. Distilling is one of the most rewarding, science-meets-art hobbies you can get into. It's legal to make your own alcohol here in New Zealand, so lets steam ahead with five reasons why today is the perfect day to dive into the world of home distilling:
1. You’ll Become the Master of Your Own Spirit Universe
When you distill at home, you decide everything, from the grains or fruits you use to the final flavour profile. Want an aged whisky with a hint of vanilla? A citrusy gin that sings in a G&T? Love a feijoa anything? Done. No more settling for overpriced bottles from the Bottle-o. You’re in full creative control.
Bonus: your mates will be very impressed when you very casually pour them a drink you made yourself.
2. It’s Like Science Class… But With Spirits
Distilling is a hands-on, sensory experience that’s equal parts science, craftsmanship, and experimentation. You’ll learn about fermentation, temperature control, flavour extraction, and yup, it’s way more fun than school chemistry. If you’re a naturally curious person, this is a rabbit hole you’ll love falling down.
3. It’ll Save You Some Bucks (In the Long Run)
Let’s be real: good spirits aren't cheap. But when you distill your own, you can make high-quality spirits at a fraction of the cost. After your initial setup, your bottles are basically just costing you ingredients and time. And can you really put a dollar amount on the feeling of satisfaction from your own creation? Priceless, mate.
4. The Gear Is Way More Accessible Than You Think
You don’t need a medieval laboratory to get started. Modern home distilling kits (like the ones from Still Spirits 😉) are compact, safe, and beginner-friendly, designed to make great spirits without the guesswork. Whether you’ve got a full garage or a small kitchen, there’s a setup that can work for you, the volume of alcohol you want to produce and Want to eyeball what we're talking about? Check out the gear here.
5. It’s a Seriously Satisfying Hobby
There’s something deeply rewarding about sipping a glass of something you made. From the first ferment to the final bottle, every batch is a little project - a story in a glass, if you will. And unlike other hobbies, you get to share the results with friends, toast to your success, and maybe even name your own signature spirit.
So… Why Not Start Today?
Distilling isn’t just a skill - it’s a craft. It might something new to your world, or a hobby you've eyed up for a long time. Either way, we can attest to the fact that it's one that brings people together, taps into your creativity, and gives you something you can literally taste success in. There’s no better time to get started than right now.
Need help picking the right gear or recipe to start with? Drop us a line or follow on social media - we’ve got the tools, tips, and tricks to help you distill with confidence.