Valley gets into the spirits

WA leads the way when it comes to craft beer in Australia but a growing number of boutique distilleries are giving local spirit lovers something to crow about.

The Swan Valley is known for its wine and beer but is also now producing rum, vodka, gin and whisky.

Run by the Passmore family for more than a decade, the Kimberley Rum Company brews its acclaimed Canefire Rum at its Great Northern Distillery in the valley, with drinkers so far receptive to an alternative to the ubiquitous Bundaberg.

"We've had a lot more success than we thought we'd have," general manager Ryan Passmore said.

The Passmores have built their reputation through a relentless schedule of tastings, tour groups and festival appearances.

Over in West Swan, the Wild Swan Distillery was one of the first to begin distilling vodka in Perth, and now produces chilli, lemon, vanilla and espresso varieties of the famous Russian drink.

Source: The West Australian, 23 January 2013