Elevate Your Evenings: How to Serve Martha’s Moonshine at your next Winter Dinner Party

Moonshine has evolved far beyond its illicit roots. Martha’s Moonshine is a refined, modern take on this storied spirit—handcrafted with care on King Island using traditional methods and using fresh Tasmanian barley. The result is a clear, smooth, characterful drop that’s just as suited to slow sipping as it is to creative cocktails. And in the cooler months, it comes into its own—bringing warmth, depth, and a touch of intrigue to your winter dinner party. 

Here are three elegant ways to serve Martha’s Moonshine that will surprise and delight your guests this season. 

1. Moonshine Martini on Arrival 

Crisp. Unexpected. Memorable. 

Welcome guests with a clean and elegant martini that lets the purity of Martha’s Moonshine shine through. It's a refined way to kick off a winter evening and sets the tone for something a little different. 

How to serve: 

• 60ml Martha’s Moonshine 

• 10ml dry vermouth 

• Stir over ice, strain into a chilled coupe glass 

• Garnish with a lemon twist or pickled onion for a Gibson variation 

Pair with: King Island brie on crispbread with pear chutney or truffle honey. 

2. Charred Citrus Moonshine Highball  - Main Course Pairing 

Refreshing. Zesty. Balanced. 

During the main course, this highball cuts through richer winter dishes with bright citrus and effervescence. The subtle smokiness from charred fruit brings just enough warmth to keep it seasonal. 

How to serve: 

• 45ml Martha’s Moonshine 

• Juice of half a grilled lemon or orange 

• Top with soda or sparkling mineral water 

• Serve in a highball glass over ice 

• Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme 

Pair with: Thai yellow chicken curry, grilled prawns, or roast pumpkin and feta salad. 

3. Smoked Apple Moonshine Old Fashioned - After Dinner Sip 

Warm. Aromatic. A little bit wild. 

Round out the evening with a fireside favourite. This moonshine old fashioned blends orchard notes with winter spices, making it the perfect nightcap for cold evenings and great conversation. 

How to serve: 

• 50ml Martha’s Moonshine 

• 10ml spiced apple syrup (or maple with a dash of cinnamon) 

• 2 dashes of bitters 

• Stir over ice, garnish with a dehydrated apple wheel or orange peel 

• Optional: smoke the glass with applewood chips for extra depth 

Pair with: Dark chocolate tart, roasted figs, or blue cheese and honeycomb. 

Discover the Spirit of the Unexpected 

Martha’s Moonshine is a bold and elegant addition to any winter gathering—steeped in history, crafted with care, and ready to surprise even the most seasoned palate. Whether served neat or reimagined in a cocktail, it’s a spirit that brings warmth, character, and conversation to the table. 

Shop Martha’s Moonshine now at King Island Distillery and make it the centrepiece of your next dinner party. 

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