The Hills District in Sydney’s north-west is flush with pubs and clubs. But Hills Distilling Co was a first for the area when it opened in 2024. This small-batch distillery by Momento Hospitality produces gins, vodka and white malt spirits from a two-level industrial space in Rouse Hill, complete with a handsome bar with room for around 20 drinkers, and a retail section flaunting the distillery's range.

On Thursdays you can book tours, gin-making masterclasses and tastings with Italian snacks from Sarinos in Norwest. Walk-ins are welcome on Fridays, when you can stop by the cellar door from 3pm to 6pm for tastings, cocktails and mixers that showcase the range. There are also dumplings to go with your Martini, courtesy of Macquarie Park Cantonese diner, Jinja.

The cellar door is where you can grab a bottle of the signature Article No.9 gin, a classic juniper-forward number, with wattle seed for a subtle Aussie accent. There’s also a white malt spirit – a collab with Australian Brewing Co next-door – double distilled from the brewery’s amber ale recipe. Cocktail garnishes and specialty salts are also available; all you need is ice and a suitable glass for the perfect drink at home.