15
Nov
Homebrewers are always looking to experiment with different taste profiles and flavourings in the quest to create unique spirits. Seasoned home beverage makers, who have tried and tested most of the essences in the local brewing shop, know very well that Still Spirits Top Shelf are the winning combination for their concoctions.
These clever little flavour bombs are concentrated essences that help you recreate your favourite spirits at home. Think of them as the secret ingredient. With just a few drops you can turn a basic neutral spirit into something that tastes remarkably similar to premium branded drinks.
Each essence contains a carefully crafted blend of natural and nature-identical flavours, designed to mirror the complexity and character of traditional spirits. Still Spirits Top Shelf Essences deliver flavour profiles that mimic classics like bourbon, rum, whiskey, and more.
The popularity of Top Shelf Essences in Australia isn’t just about saving a few dollars (though that’s certainly a bonus). These essences have struck a chord with our DIY culture and our love for quality drinks without the premium price tag. Plus, with our remote communities and sometimes eye-watering liquor prices, being able to craft your own quality spirits has obvious appeal.
Starting your journey with Top Shelf essences is pretty straightforward, and it’s part of what makes the process so appealing to newcomers. You’ll need:
The beauty of these essences is their simplicity – just add to your base spirit, give it a good shake, and you’re mostly done. Let it sit for a few hours or a bit longer for a more unified flavour.
The whisky essences are among the most popular, offering everything from smooth Scotch-style to bold bourbon-style flavours. The Highland Malt essence, for instance, brings those classic peaty notes that whisky lovers crave, while the Tennessee Bourbon style offers those characteristic vanilla and oak notes.
For gin enthusiasts, Top Shelf Spirits offers various styles that’ll have you making G&Ts that could rival your local pubs. The London Dry style essence captures those traditional juniper and botanical notes perfectly, while the Contemporary Gin essence offers a more modern, citrus-forward profile.
The rum essences are particularly impressive, ranging from white to dark styles. The Caribbean Gold essence, for example, brings those warm caramel and vanilla notes you’d expect from a quality aged rum. There’s also a range of liqueur essences for those who fancy something sweeter.
It’s worth noting that in Australia, while it’s perfectly legal to use these essences with commercially produced neutral spirits, distilling your own alcohol without a license is not. Stick to adding these essences to store-bought neutral spirits and you’ll be right as rain.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, there’s a world of experimentation waiting. Many enthusiasts blend different Still Spirits Top Shelf essences to create unique flavour profiles. Some add a dash of the rum essence to their whisky-style creation for added complexity or combine different gin styles for a unique botanical blend.
One of the best things about the Top Shelf Essence community in Australia is how willing people are to share their experiences and tips. Local brewing shops often have staff who are knowledgeable about these products, and there are various online forums where enthusiasts share their successes (and occasional failures).
Remember, like any hobby, working with Top Shelf essences is about enjoying the journey as much as the destination. Whether you’re making these spirits for your own enjoyment or to impress mates at your next barbeque, there’s something satisfying about crafting your own drinks. Just remember to enjoy responsibly, and don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s half the fun!
