Fred Siggins is a Melbourne-based spirits writer with more than 20 years of experience in the drinks and hospitality industries.

He joins us to discuss what I think is a fairly momentous development. Halliday Wine Companion, the definitive guide to Australian wine for almost 40 years, is expanding its remit to include spirits.

Launching in April 2025, Halliday Spirits offers comprehensive reviews and ratings of Australian-made and international spirits, aiming to elevate the industry with the same dedication to quality and insight that has defined Halliday's legacy in wine.

Distillers will be assigned annual star ratings, based on scores achieved throughout the year, and the Halliday website, winecompanion.com.au, will host a directory of distillery profiles.

Fred will be acting as lead taster, and joining him is gin expert Jess Clayfield, who has a profound understanding of Australian botanicals.

Coming up, Fred explains why he thinks consumers are crying out for expert buying advice on spirits.

You’ll hear which Australian spirits categories he’s most excited about, and he shares a few specific recommendations on the best value spirits currently on the market.

Interested distillers can find out how to get involved here:

https://winecompanion.com.au/spirits-submission-process