Larrikin Bourbon Co. launches Koala Bare gin in the U.S.

By AI, Created 3:01 PM UTC, May 30, 2026, /AGP/ – Larrikin Bourbon Co. has brought Modern Australian Gin to American shelves with Koala Bare, a Kentucky-distilled collection built around native Australian botanicals and already decorated with major spirits awards. The launch gives U.S. drinkers a new gin style now available online and in retail partners across 16 states.

Why it matters: - Koala Bare introduces Modern Australian Gin to the U.S. market. - The launch expands a gin style centered on Australian native botanicals, muted juniper and regional flavors not commonly found in traditional gin. - The brand is already positioned with external validation from three major awards before its official debut.

What happened: - Larrikin Bourbon Co. launched Koala Bare, a collection of award-winning gins distilled in Kentucky. - The company said the release is designed to share Modern Australian Gin with American consumers. - Koala Bare is available online and through retail partners in 16 states. - The launch took place in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, on May 30, 2026.

The details: - Koala Bare uses Australian native botanicals including wattleseed, white kunzea, oyster shell, sea parsley, lemon myrtle, saltbush and Tasmanian pepperberry. - The gins are built around muted juniper. - Larrikin created four expressions in the collection: Easy Peasy, Resting Beach Face, OLV #3 and Best Mates. - Easy Peasy is positioned as bright and vibrant for a gin and tonic. - Resting Beach Face draws on coastal flavors with briny maritime influences. - OLV #3 is designed to work with a small amount of vermouth for a martini. - Best Mates is savory and versatile for both simple highballs and more complex cocktails. - Before launch, Koala Bare won Best in Show from the American Craft Spirits Association, Double Gold at the ASCOT Awards and a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Between the lines: - Larrikin is betting that consumers are ready for gin beyond the classic juniper profile. - The award list suggests the company wants Koala Bare to be read as both a new import-style concept and a credible spirits contender. - Greg Keeley framed the launch as a broader showcase for the category, not just a single brand.

What’s next: - Larrikin will likely use the awards and retail expansion to build awareness for the Koala Bare lineup. - The company is also likely to position Modern Australian Gin as a longer-term category story for U.S. drinkers. - Social updates are available from the brand on Instagram and Facebook.

The bottom line: - Koala Bare gives Larrikin Bourbon Co. a U.S. entry point for a niche gin style with a clear flavor identity and early industry recognition.