Artisans Secret Distillery, a much loved husband-and-wife business and regular vendor at our HOTA Markets, has picked up nine international awards across three major competitions which includes four gold medals, going toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in the industry. This is their story.
Raising the Bar(rel)
Based in Gaven on the Gold Coast, Artisans Secret Distillery is a small-batch spirits production that focuses on craftmanship, from the culmination of the base ingredients to the innovative alcohol blending skills in their distillation process. Competing against brands internationally is no small feat for an independent and hands-on business, but that’s exactly what they’ve done, and the results speak for themselves.
At the 2026 London Spirits Competition, Artisans Secret Distillery won 3 golds medals for their Reserve Barrel Rum, Oak Spiced Rum, and Coco-Rumka Coconut Liqueur; plus a silver medal for their Premium Vodka.
Let’s also not forget their achievements at the 2026 World Spirits Challenge, where they received a gold medal for their Reserve Rum, two silver medals for their Coco-Rumka and Premium Vodka, and a bronze medal for their Oak Spiced Rum.
Their Premium Vodka also received a bronze medal in the 2025 Australian International Vodka Awards, rounding out the competition season most distilleries dream of.
Meet the Award-Winning Range
Each award-winning drop reflects Artisans Distillery’s philosophy. The Aussie Salute Reserve Rum, aged in select oak barrels for over six years, is a golden, richly layered spirit with notes of rich oak and smooth caramel and vanilla—a tribute, in the distillery’s words, to “land, fire and legacy.” Its sibling, the Aussie Salute Oak Spiced Rum, brings warmth and spice, honouring the golden resilience of Australia and the fiery passion of those who forge their own path. The Coco-Rumka Coconut Liqueur takes a different path entirely—a silky, tropical blend of Premium Vodka and cane spirit macerated with real coconut for a taste the distillery describes as “paradise in every sip.” Rounding out the collection is the Fair Dinkum Premium Vodka, brewed from mixed grains on-site, with wisp of oats and wheat notes to the nose, completed with the smooth and subtly sweet finish that’s earned recognition across all three competitions.
Come and Raise Your Glass!
Stories like this are exactly why Goodwill Projects exists, which is to give small, independent businesses a genuine platform to grow and be recognised. We’re proud to support passionate operators like Artisans Secret Distillery and even prouder to see their genuine work celebrated internationally.
Catch Artisans Secret Distillery at HOTA Markets, every Sunday at 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, QLD from 6AM to 11.30AM. Let’s give a toast to nine very well-earned awards!
