When were Four Pillars founded?

How Four Pillars Began in 2013

In 2013, a bold new chapter in Australian spirits began with the founding of Four Pillars. What started as a passion project quickly grew into one of the country’s most celebrated gin distilleries. The journey began when Cameron Mackenzie, a seasoned bar owner with an eye for what drinkers truly wanted, joined forces with Stuart Gregor, a veteran of the drinks industry, and Matt Jones, a creative force in brand strategy.

Together, the trio set up shop in the Yarra Valley, a region better known for its wine than its gin. But they had a vision: to craft something modern, bold, and unmistakably Australian. From day one, Four Pillars embraced innovation—using native botanicals like Tasmanian pepperberry and fresh citrus peel to create distinctive, aromatic gins that stood out in a crowded market.

It wasn’t just about making great spirits. The name “Four Pillars” itself reflects their core values: excellence in distillation, a commitment to the Yarra Valley community, transparency in production, and a dedication to sustainability. These principles weren’t marketing fluff—they became the foundation of everything they did.

The early days were scrappy. They started with a single 1,400-litre still, affectionately named “Wilma,” and hand-labeled every bottle. But their craftsmanship quickly earned recognition. Within a few years, Four Pillars wasn’t just a local favorite—it was winning international awards and appearing on top bar shelves around the world.

More than just a distillery, Four Pillars became a symbol of Australia’s craft spirits renaissance. By blending tradition with experimentation, and local flavor with global ambition, the team didn’t just enter the market—they helped redefine it. And it all started quietly, back in 2013, with three friends betting on a bold idea.