Australian Herbal Liqueur: A Signature Native Botanical Spirit

Australian Herbal Liqueur: A Signature Native Botanical Spirit

Crafted with Native Australian Botanicals Since 2005

Australian Herbal Liqueur was first developed in 2005 as part of Tamborine Mountain Distillery's core range of handcrafted spirits. The aim was to create a distinctive herbal liqueur using native Australian botanicals that would stand as a long-term signature product.

Australian Herbal Liqueur displayed alongside one of its first international awards received in 2005, highlighting its long history of recognition.

Originally released as Bush Herbal Liqueur, it was later renamed Australian Herbal Liqueur as the founders expanded into international markets. The new name better reflected its unique Australian identity and the native botanicals that define its character.

Over time, it has become one of the distillery's most recognised expressions, receiving more than 20 international awards for quality and consistency. The recipe has remained largely unchanged, with refinement focused on balance and craftsmanship rather than reinvention.

This has helped establish it as a well-known Australian herbal liqueur with a strong and loyal following.

Native Australian botanicals

The defining feature of Australian Herbal Liqueur is its use of native Australian botanicals. Each ingredient contributes a distinct layer to the overall profile.

  • Blue Gum Eucalyptus delivers depth and aromatic structure
  • Aniseed Myrtle introduces gentle spice and warmth. 
  • Lemon Myrtle provides bright citrus notes
  • Native Peppermint adds freshness

Together, they create a layered flavour profile that is distinctly Australian in character.

Four botanical tinctures representing the native Australian flavours used in Australian Herbal Liqueur.

Craft and production

Australian Herbal Liqueur is produced in small batches using controlled maceration and blending techniques. Native botanicals are steeped to extract essential aromatic compounds before being carefully blended to achieve a stable and repeatable flavour profile.

The process prioritises extraction balance, aromatic integrity, and consistency across production runs. Rather than varying between batches, the focus is on maintaining a defined sensory structure that has remained consistent since 2005.

Flavour profile and experience

Australian Herbal Liqueur served in a tasting glass highlighting its rich herbal colour and aromatic character.

The aroma is fresh and herbal with citrus lift and a cooling green character. The palate is smooth and structured, with a pronounced aniseed-driven core supported by light eucalyptus and herbal freshness.

Mid-palate spice is balanced by subtle sweetness and cooling botanical tones. The finish is long, clean, and aromatic, with lingering herbal warmth and persistent aniseed character.

Overall, the profile is bold, botanical, and distinctly Australian, with clear structural depth and aromatic intensity.

How it is enjoyed

Australian Herbal Hot Toddy made with Australian Herbal Liqueur, hot water and honey.

Australian Herbal Liqueur is typically served neat to appreciate its full botanical structure and aroma. It also works beautifully in simple cocktails where its distinctive herbal character can shine.

One of the favourite winter serves among our customers is a simple Herbal Hot Toddy, combining Australian Herbal Liqueur with hot water and a spoonful of honey. The gentle warmth of the drink beautifully complements the spirit's rich botanical profile, making it a comforting choice on cooler evenings.

A label inspired by Australian art

Australian Herbal Liqueur original painting featuring native botanical artwork by Australian artist Anne Rutter.
 

The story of Australian Herbal Liqueur extends beyond the bottle itself. The background artwork featured on the label was painted by Australian artist Anne Rutter, whose artwork has become an iconic part of Tamborine Mountain Distillery's identity.

Each label in the range celebrates Australian flora and reflects the craftsmanship behind the spirits inside.

Read more about Anne Rutter and the artwork behind our labels. 

A Winter Ritual for Many Customers

Over time, Australian Herbal Liqueur has become a seasonal favourite, often chosen during cooler months as part of slow evening drinking rituals. Its aromatic intensity and warming herbal finish make it a natural fit for winter occasions and after-dinner serves.

Discover Australian Herbal Liqueur and experience one of Tamborine Mountain Distillery's most enduring signature spirits.

Explore Australian Herbal Liqueur

 


Frequently Asked Questions

What is Australian Herbal Liqueur?

Australian Herbal Liqueur is a native botanical Australian spirit crafted by Tamborine Mountain Distillery. First created in 2005, it is made with native Australian botanicals and has received more than 20 international awards for its quality, craftsmanship, and distinctive flavour profile.


Was Australian Herbal Liqueur always called Australian Herbal Liqueur?

No. When it was first released in 2005, it was known as Bush Herbal Liqueur. As the founders expanded into international markets, the name was changed to Australian Herbal Liqueur to better reflect its uniquely Australian identity and the native botanicals at its heart.


What botanicals are used in Australian Herbal Liqueur?

Australian Herbal Liqueur is crafted with Lemon Myrtle, Native Peppermint, Blue Gum Eucalyptus, and Aniseed Myrtle. Together, these botanicals create a layered herbal profile with citrus freshness, aromatic depth, and a distinctive Australian character.


Where is Australian Herbal Liqueur made?

Australian Herbal Liqueur is handcrafted at Tamborine Mountain Distillery on Tamborine Mountain, Queensland, Australia. It is produced in small batches using controlled maceration and blending techniques to ensure consistency and quality.


How is Australian Herbal Liqueur best enjoyed?

Australian Herbal Liqueur is most commonly enjoyed neat to appreciate its full botanical complexity. During winter, many customers also enjoy it as a simple Herbal Hot Toddy with hot water and a spoonful of honey, while others use it to add a distinctive botanical twist to classic cocktails.


Has Australian Herbal Liqueur won any awards?

Yes. Australian Herbal Liqueur has received more than 20 international awards since its release in 2005, recognising its quality, consistency, and distinctive native botanical character.


Who created the artwork on the Australian Herbal Liqueur label?

The background artwork featured on the label was painted by Australian artist Anne Rutter, whose work has become an iconic part of Tamborine Mountain Distillery's identity. Her paintings celebrate Australia's native flora and feature across many of the distillery's signature labels. Learn more about Anne Rutter and the story behind the artwork in our dedicated blog.