Bickford’s opens $6.6 million South Australian distillery
Cordial maker, Bickford’s, has opened a AUD $6.6 million distillery in Renmark, South Australia.
The distillery will begin operations producing four different spirits under the brand name ‘23rd Street’. Black Bottle Brandy and Vickers Gin, owned by Vok Beverages, will also be produced on site.
Bickford’s Group Owner and Managing Director, Angelo Kotses, said he was inspired to revamp the old Renmano wine distillery and turn it into a new venture for his business.
“We anticipate it will signal the rebirth of distilling in South Australia, while tapping into the craft renaissance that’s already prevalent in areas such as coffee and beer,” Kotses said.
“All this activity in an industry that’s currently worth some $3-billion to the nation’s economy each year will also create an initial 15 fulltime and casual jobs,” he stated.
The distillery was partly funded with a AUD $2.3 million grant from the SA state government.
Distillery will be open to tour groups
Tourism will be part of the new venture with more than 30, 000 visitors expected each year.
SA Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Leon Bignell, said the distillery will be using local ingredients and producers whenever possible.
“The 100 per cent family-owned and independent business is investing in South Australia, creating jobs and generating significant economic benefits for the region,” he said.
Bickford’s is a South Australian family owned business that has been making beverages since 1839.
