The Distiller of the Year Award recognises an individual distiller demonstrating outstanding performance across production quality, brand development, commercial success and contribution to the Australian distilling industry.

Judges will consider achievements relative to the scale and stage of the business, ensuring distillers of all sizes can be recognised.

2026 Distiller of the Year Finalists:

Adam Chapman — CAVU Distillery QLD 

Kristy Lark — Killara Distillery  TAS

Ally Ayres — Karu Distillery NSW

Sarah Prowse — Four PIllars Distillery VIC 

 

Who should enter?

This award is open to individual distillers working within an Australian distillery.
Nominees may be owners, head distillers, production distillers or key members of a distilling team.

 

Judges will consider:

  • Distilling skill and production quality
  • Product development and innovation
  • Contribution to brand and business growth
  • Leadership and mentorship
  • Contribution to the broader distilling industry
  • Achievements over the past 24 months 

 

Entry includes:

  • Distiller biography
  • Overview of the distiller’s role
  • Key achievements (past 24 months)
  • Contribution to products and production
  • Contribution to business growth
  • Contribution to the industry
  • Optional supporting material

 

Entries Closed.