Tasting Table – Polemic

Microbrands matter. They allow fresh ideas to take flight. In the case of the new and fascinating Polemic Aperitif Lab, they also bring forth excellent spirits. It’s time to take a look.

Join Hugh Holds, founder of this underground label, to discover more. Learn about his journey from head of maturation at Melbourne-based Starward Whisky to PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide, plus the ethos he’s now bringing to Polemic.

The fledgling brand launched with The Odyssey, a barrel-aged gin that won its category at the 2022 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards. A second Italian-leaning release was next, followed by a pandan gin in collaboration with city Thai restaurant Soi 38.

What’s to come? Meet Holds at East End bar NOLA and find out.