In celebration of International Women’s Day we have a exclusive chat with founder and distiller, Jen from Lily Fields Distilling Co:
Getting Started: The Journey from Scientist to Distiller
Can you share your journey from working as a scientist to becoming a distiller? What inspired you to make such a big career change?
The idea—or dream, really—first took shape during the COVID lockdowns. Being forced to slow down and stay at home gave me the time to reflect on where I was in life and what I truly wanted for my future.
I loved my work in the pharmaceutical industry, especially the challenge of drug development. It was highly technical and deeply rewarding, but I realized that if I applied my chemistry background to the world of Australian craft spirits, there was an opportunity to create something truly magical. The science of distillation, the art of flavor, and the creativity of crafting spirits all came together in a way that felt both familiar and excitingly new.
That’s when Lily Fields Distilling Co. was born.
How has your background in science influenced your approach to gin making and distilling?
More than I ever could have imagined. When I first announced to my colleagues that I was leaving pharma to open a gin distillery in Sydney, a few thought it was a waste of my scientific background and education. I completely disagree.
As a chemist, I bring precision, consistency, and an experimental mindset to every aspect of distillation. From fine-tuning botanical extraction to optimizing maceration times and ensuring every batch meets the highest standards, science is at the core of what I do. The structured approach I learned in pharmaceuticals—formulating, testing, and refining—translates perfectly to crafting spirits. I get to combine creativity with chemistry, and honestly, I love every second of it.
Were there any defining moments that made you realize distilling was your true passion?
It all started as a dream in mid-2020. At first, it was just a bit of fun—a hobby. But then things kept falling into place. There were sign after sign that this could actually work, and eventually, I found myself at a crossroads: stay in pharma or take a leap and open a distillery.
I knew deep down that if I didn’t do it, I’d regret it. That’s when the serious research phase began. For the next two and a half years, while still working full-time in pharma, I dedicated myself to planning, product development, branding, and finding the perfect location. Navigating licensing, council approvals, and everything else required to launch a distillery was a massive challenge—but we did it.
The planning phase alone could fill an entire blog post, but in the end, every challenge reinforced that this was exactly where I was meant to be.
Challenges, Achievements & Crafting Award-Winning Gin
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in the distilling industry?
Personally, I wouldn’t say being a woman in the industry has been a huge challenge for me. Yes, distilling is still a male-dominated field—the last study I saw from the Australian spirits industry estimated that only about 10% of distillers are female. But having come from the pharmaceutical world, where senior roles are also largely held by men, this wasn’t unfamiliar territory.
I truly believe we’re steadily breaking down the barriers between men and women in the industry. And when we’re crafting spirits that speak for themselves, those barriers don’t stand a chance.
That said, I’m incredibly proud to be part of that 10%—to be contributing to the industry and putting exceptional
Australian made gin
on the shelves for people to enjoy.
Overall, I’ve found the Australian spirits community to be incredibly supportive, regardless of gender. There are also fantastic initiatives like Women of Australian Distilling that actively promote, encourage, and support women in the Australian craft distilling industry, helping to pave the way for even more diversity in the field.
What is your proudest achievement since starting Lily Fields Distilling Co.?
Winning the Trophy for Best in Class – Classic Dry Gin at the Australian Gin Awards 2023 for our
Juniper Gin
is, without a doubt, my proudest achievement. I’ll never forget that phone call—it came just nine months after launching our Sydney gin distillery.
The CEO of the competition called to deliver the news. I was speechless. She asked, “Who is the distiller?” I replied, “I am.” Then she asked, “How long have you been distilling?” When I said “Nine months,” she paused, congratulated me on the trophy, and said, “Well, you clearly know what you’re doing.” She also mentioned how great it was to see a female distiller take home such a major award.
I’ll never forget that moment. It was the first time I truly felt relief—reassurance that I had made the right decision. And after that, the awards just kept coming—gold after gold. It’s an incredible feeling and something I’m deeply proud of.
Can you tell us about a particular batch or gin release that holds a special place in your heart?
Sydney Dry Gin !
Batch #00001. Our very first release, our very first batch. It represents years of research, refinement, and an obsession with getting every detail just right.
Creating Sydney Dry Gin was no small task—it was the result of hundreds, maybe even thousands, of tiny adjustments. Our goal wasn’t just to make a great gin; We wanted to create a perfect gin. I’m particular—not fussy, just someone who appreciates quality. I kept tweaking and refining until we landed on something truly special: bright citrus, a touch of floral, a strong backbone of juniper, and—most importantly—a gin that’s effortlessly drinkable. A gin you can enjoy all night without it becoming too overpowering or heavy.
Releasing Batch #00001 was an incredibly proud moment, and
Sydney Dry Gin
will always hold a special place in my heart.
What goes into crafting an award-winning gin? Can you share some insights into your creative and technical process?
So many things—balance, methodology, ingredients, and, above all, care. Perfection takes time, and we never rush the development process. Every gin we create starts with a clear vision of what we want to achieve, and we don’t stop refining until we’ve nailed it.
A lesson that’s stuck with me since childhood comes from my dad. He always said, “If you’re going to do something, do it properly.” That mindset is ingrained in me. I don’t believe in doing things halfway—if I commit to something, it’s with 100% effort, always. That philosophy drives every decision I make at Lily Fields Distilling Co.
I also firmly believe that no one knows everything—there’s always something new to learn. That’s what makes distilling (and life) so exciting. Every day, I discover something new, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
People, Friendships & Community in the Craft Spirits Industry
Have you formed any unexpected friendships or collaborations in the industry?
Absolutely. The people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve made have been some of the most special parts of this journey.
From bar and venue owners to licensees, fellow Australian distillers, and other
Sydney gin distillery
owners, the industry is filled with passionate, supportive people. We’ve had incredible opportunities to collaborate with local businesses on special releases and connect with customers who genuinely love our brand and products. There’s something really rewarding about sharing our story and vision with people who not only appreciate what we do but also want to be part of it.
I’m also incredibly proud of our team. We may be small, but we bring together a unique set of skills—and we have a lot of fun along the way.
A unique aspect of Lily Fields Distilling Co is your relationship with the Leichhardt Bowling Club. Can you tell us about that?
What could be more Australian than an
Australian made gin
calling a community bowling club home?
The Leichhardt Bowling Club has been part of our journey from the very beginning. When we launched our Sydney distillery, we also introduced our garden bar, nestled right in the middle of the club’s converted bowling green-turned-beer garden.
It’s a truly unique collaboration. The garden bar serves as both a relaxed cocktail bar and our cellar door, offering simple, well-crafted drinks featuring our spirits. And with our home just a minute’s walk away, it couldn’t be more convenient!
The club’s directors and staff have supported us every step of the way, embracing our vision and helping us bring it to life. We’re incredibly grateful for everything they do—it’s been an amazing partnership.
The Future of Lily Fields Distilling Co.
What’s next for Lily Fields Distilling Co.?
Well I cant tell you that yet. Maybe watch this space !
Where do you see the Australian craft spirits industry heading in the next five years?
The future of Australian made gins and spirits is incredibly exciting. There’s so much potential, and we’re already seeing world-class products coming out of local distilleries.
If you’ve been sticking to well-known imports like
Tanqueray gin
or Gordon’s,
I’d encourage you to explore what Australian distillers have to offer. There are some truly exceptional gins being crafted right here, and by choosing them, you’re not only discovering new flavors but also supporting locally owned businesses and the growth of our industry.
Final Thoughts
How does it feel to celebrate International Women’s Day as a female distiller and entrepreneur?
It feels incredible. I’m proud to be a female distiller and small business owner, and I love being part of an industry where women are making their mark. International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate progress, reflect on how far we’ve come, and look ahead to what’s next. And for me, the future is exciting.
What message do you have for women everywhere who are chasing their dreams, no matter the industry?
Believe in yourself. It won’t be easy, but if you’re willing to put in the work, go for it. Chase that dream, do your research, and plan it out properly. Trust in your vision, stay determined, and don’t let doubt hold you back. You have got this:)
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