In an Australian first — and a world first — our local, award-winning Reef Distillers has unveiled Zucchini Flower Vodka, an innovative small-batch spirit crafted in partnership with the iconic Pirrone Brothers, a third-generation farming family from Ayr, North Queensland.
This distinctive small-batch vodka is crafted using hand-picked zucchini blossoms and fruit, capturing soft floral notes and crisp freshness in a way that has never been bottled before. The result is a bright, elegant spirit that celebrates the Pirrone family’s agricultural roots and Reef Distillers’ flair for bold innovation. The Zucchini Flower Vodka follow in the footsteps of the recently awarded ‘Best Botanical Vodka in Australia’ the Fingerlime Vodka that Reef Distillers launched a year ago in collaboration with Salty Lime Co. one of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest fingerlime farms.
The Pirrone Brothers’ story stretches back to 1947, when Rosario Pirrone and his brother began farming sugar cane in the Burdekin. Today, under the leadership of Ross Wayne Pirrone, the family has become known nationwide for their commitment to quality zucchini production — including the delicate flowers that inspired this unique collaboration.
Distilled in Yeppoon on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the vodka blends blossom aromatics with clean coastal purity. It’s a true expression of place: regional, refined, and unmistakably Queensland.
Reef Distillers Co-owner Laureth Rumble said the team is thrilled to bring something so original to the market.
“This is the kind of idea you dream about — something truly original that honours both regional agriculture and the art of distillation,” Laureth said. “A true farm-to-still experience”
“The Pirrone Brothers’ flowers bring an elegance and softness that you simply can’t find anywhere else.”
“We’re beyond excited to share this spirit with Australia and the world.”
Pirrone Brothers spokesperson Josh Pirrone said the collaboration represents an exciting new chapter for the family’s long-standing agricultural legacy.
“Our family has farmed in the Burdekin for generations, and partnering with Reef Distillers to transform our zucchini flowers into a premium vodka is something we are incredibly proud of,” Josh said.
“It’s a celebration of our land, our produce, and the innovation that continues to drive regional farming forward.”
Bottled at 38% ABV, the vodka is smooth, herbaceous and refreshingly aromatic — perfect for sipping, crafting unique cocktails, or pairing with fresh Queensland seafood.
Mary Carroll, CEO of Capricorn Enterprise, praised the collaboration.
“This partnership perfectly captures the spirit of regional Queensland: innovation, collaboration, and a genuine connection to place,” Mary said.
“Reef Distillers continues to champion the Southern Great Barrier Reef with world-class products that showcase the depth of local talent and the extraordinary quality of our agricultural producers.”
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