Farmer-Tini - A Savoury, Herb-Driven Martini Featuring Shepherd’s Run Gin

A Martini with Rustic Roots

The Farmer-Tini is a cocktail that honours heritage, flavour and the spirit of the landscape. Built around the bold, savoury botanicals of Shepherd’s Run Gin, this martini takes its inspiration from Rothwell Distillery’s sheep-herding past — drawing cues from the classic flavours of roast lamb and the aromatic herb gardens that often surround rural kitchens.

The result is a martini that embraces earthiness, warmth and Mediterranean character while still feeling elegant, contemporary and unmistakably Australian. With sage-infused vodka layered alongside vermouth and a sprig of fresh thyme, the Farmer-Tini is both familiar and surprising — a drink that invites slow sipping and appreciation.

The Story Behind Shepherd’s Run Gin

Shepherd’s Run Gin was born from a playful exploration of Rothwell Distillery’s sheep-herding heritage. While brainstorming how to honour this history, the team turned to an unexpected source of inspiration: roast lamb recipes.

From there, Shepherd’s Run Gin took shape as a savoury, peppery spirit infused with Mediterranean-style herbs and anchored in the Australian landscape. Its botanical bill includes:

• Rosemary — aromatic and earthy
• Thyme — warm and savoury
• Lemon — bright and cleansing
• Saltbush — grounding the gin in Australian terroir
• Bush mint — adding freshness and subtle salinity

The result is a deeply expressive gin: savoury, herbaceous and perfect for cocktails that appreciate depth and complexity. It pairs beautifully with StrangeLove Coastal Tonic, and shines in cocktails like the Gin Bloody Rose-Mary and the Farmer-Tini.

What the Farmer-Tini Tastes Like

The Farmer-Tini is a savoury martini with structure, aroma and herb-driven character. Its flavour profile includes:

• Herbaceous depth from rosemary, thyme and bush mint in the gin
• Savoury salinity from saltbush
• Soft floral citrus from the gin’s lemon notes
• Warm, aromatic sage from the infused vodka
• Dry, elegant structure from the vermouth

It is clean yet complex, savoury yet refreshing — a martini that rewards those who enjoy bold botanical character.

When to Serve the Farmer-Tini

This cocktail suits moments that call for depth and a touch of sophistication, such as:

Evening aperitifs

A refined pre-dinner drink that opens the palate.

Autumn and winter gatherings

Its savoury warmth feels comforting in cooler weather.

Food pairing opportunities

Pairs beautifully with charcuterie, roasted vegetables, hard cheeses and cured meats.

Gin lovers seeking something different

Ideal for those who enjoy martinis, herbal spirits or cocktails that lean savoury rather than sweet.

Farmer-Tini — Recipe

Ingredients

• 50ml Rothwell Distillery Shepherd’s Run Gin
• 10ml Dry Vermouth
• 10ml Sage-infused Vodka
• Ice
• Garnish: Fresh thyme sprig

Method

1. Add Shepherd’s Run Gin, vermouth and sage-infused vodka to a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir gently for 20–25 seconds until well chilled and diluted.
3. Strain into a chilled martini or nick & nora glass.
4. Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig — gently tap it first to release aroma.

*Note: The colder your gin and vodka start, the better the mouthfeel and texture will be. I reccomend freezing these for at least an hour before use!

A Toast to Heritage, Flavour & Craftsmanship

The Farmer-Tini is more than a martini — it’s a reflection of Rothwell Distillery’s heritage and its thoughtful approach to flavour. By blending Mediterranean herbs with Australian natives, Shepherd’s Run Gin creates a cocktail experience that feels both rustic and refined.

Enjoy the Farmer-Tini when you want a martini with character, depth and a story worth sharing.