There’s something about one of South Australia’s best ice cream brands that transports you back to sun-soaked summers of sticky sweetness dripping on a sweltering day. Now, Golden North’s boysenberry ice cream has been transformed from cone to a glass.
The popular brand has collaborated with the team at Little Blessings Brewing for the ultimate creation, pairing vibrant berry flavours with classic botanicals to produce a gin that’s as much about history and heart as it is about flavour.
Little Blessings Brewing is based in Laura, the birthplace of Golden North, which has been a cornerstone of the town for 102 years. The boysenberry flavour was an easy choice for Cat Blesing, venue manager, as the recognisable flavour is one of her favourites.
“As we were planning a new gin release, it felt right to make it a tribute to the many staff who have worked, and continue to work, at the Laura factory ahead of Golden North’s planned relocation in 2026,” she said.
The idea took shape during a tour of the Golden North factory in Laura with Operations Manager Rick Willis.
“Boysenberry has always been a consumer favourite,” Rick said. Little Blessing Brewery owner, Craig Blesing and Cat, have nailed that in this new product, he said.
“A truly must-have for any boysenberry fans that don’t mind a sneaky gin. From the smell to the taste and colour, this truly is Golden North Boysenberry in a bottle.”
The development of the gin took months to perfect, keeping the original great flavours of the classic ice cream and turning it into a spirit to enjoy.
“Careful trialling was needed to achieve the right balance between a classic gin profile and the natural boysenberry character, without tipping into excessive sweetness,” Cat said.
“Its distinctive fruit character translates well into gin, adding depth and familiarity while still allowing the classic botanical profile to shine.”
“The aroma immediately evokes memories of Golden North’s boysenberry ice cream, with the fruit character coming through clearly on the first sip. It’s a smooth, approachable gin that works particularly well as a summer drink, which has resonated strongly with customers.”
Originally planned as a limited release, the gin has quickly gained a loyal following. Since launching just over a week ago, demand has been so strong that the brewery is already in discussion about whether the collaboration could become a permanent fixture.
“We have had to go into a third round of bottling already” Cat said. “What sets it apart is the balance. The boysenberry is expressive without overpowering the gin’s base botanicals, and the finish lingers pleasantly, inviting another sip.”
As well as distilling spirits, the Little Blessing Brewery also operates a production brewery with a range of their own popular beers on tap and available as takeaways. The Boysenberry Gin is only available at their Taproom in Laura, so don’t miss out.
Little Blessings Boysenberry Gin
When: Closed until Jan 2
Where: 38 Victoria Street Laura, SA
For more info, click here.
