Spirit Of The Week: Damaged Goods Distilling Co's Smashed Apple Aperitivo

September 11, 2024 by
Sunny Madhwani

Zero-Waste Week is here, and it's all about transforming waste into something worthwhile. Across the distilling industry, there's been a rising movement to reduce waste, with distilleries finding creative ways to repurpose what would otherwise be discarded. Damaged Goods Distilling Co. is at the forefront of this shift, proving that sustainability and great flavour can go hand in hand. Their Smashed Apple Aperitivo showcases exactly what can be done when a distillery commits to reducing waste, using leftover apple pulp from a nearby cidery to create a product that’s as delicious as it is eco-friendly.

Damaged Goods Distilling Co - A Sustainable Approach

Damaged Goods Distilling Co. was born from a commitment to doing things differently, pushing boundaries with both their ingredients and processes. Co-founded by two hospitality veterans, this distillery champions sustainability with a near-zero-waste approach, using imperfect ingredients to create world-class spirits. Their focus is on sustainability without compromising on quality, aiming to save produce from landfill one bottle at a time. They’re not just another distillery looking to make a quick impact; they’re dedicated to creating something lasting, where great taste and eco-consciousness coexist in harmony. Their ethos? Drinking high-quality spirits and making a sustainable choice don’t have to be mutually exclusive. And this is where the Smashed Apple Aperitivo comes in.

Smashed Apple Aperitivo

 At the heart of this aperitivo lies the humble apple pulp, a by-product of cider production from Funk Cider, just a stone’s throw away from the distillery. After the apples are pressed to make cider, Damaged Goods collects the leftover pulp and, using a combination of science and artistry, extracts an additional 25% of juice that would otherwise be discarded. This juice becomes the foundation of the aperitivo, capturing the vibrant essence of Pink Lady and Granny Smith apples in every bottle. By using fresh apple pulp, they ensure that nothing goes to waste, and every ounce of flavour is harnessed to its fullest potential.


The pulp is split into two streams: one portion is steeped in Damaged Goods’ Final Squeeze Citrus Gin, while enzymes are used to draw out the maximal apple flavour. The gin, now infused with fresh apple, is then distilled with native strawberry gum to create the base flavour for the aperitivo. Meanwhile, the rest of the pulp is combined with sugar to extract the remaining juice through osmosis overnight. This produces a sweet slurry, which is added to the apple-infused gin base, along with bittering botanicals that are steeped for 24 hours. After a couple of weeks of resting, the Smashed Apple Aperitivo is ready to be bottled and enjoyed.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, Smashed Apple Aperitivo offers a bright and zesty orange aroma, balanced by the sweetness of the apples and an undercurrent of subtle herbal notes. The taste opens with a burst of candied rhubarb and juicy tart apples, supported by the freshness of grapes, citrus, and a light woody undertone. Its velvety texture coats the palate, creating a rich, full-bodied experience. The finish is lightly bittersweet, with lingering earthy and herbaceous notes that give it depth and complexity.


Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, the Smashed Apple Aperitivo shines in a variety of settings. For a refreshing cocktail, simply serve it over ice and top with soda water or Prosecco. A slice of fresh orange or apple adds a touch of elegance to the drink, enhancing its natural fruitiness. It’s also a great addition to a classic spritz, offering a citrus-forward, bittersweet twist. Feeling creative? Incorporate it into a Negroni-inspired cocktail, where its herbal notes and bittersweet finish can complement the other ingredients beautifully. For a non-alcoholic alternative, mix with tonic water and a squeeze of lemon for a mocktail that doesn’t compromise on taste.


Where to Buy

Smashed Apple Aperitivo is a standout in the world of sustainable spirits, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship that goes into zero-waste distilling. Damaged Goods Distilling Co. has taken what was once considered waste and turned it into a delicious aperitif that’s full of character and flavour. Their spirits is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice quality when making eco-conscious choices. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast looking to try something new or someone committed to sustainability, Smashed Apple Aperitivo is a must-have for your home bar during this spring season. Its versatility, rich flavour, and zero-waste credentials make it an essential addition to any drink collection. 


You can find Smashed Apple Aperitivo through Damaged Goods Distilling Co.’s online shop or select retailers. Don’t miss out on this unique spirit that not only tastes incredible but supports a sustainable future. Grab a bottle today and experience the perfect blend of eco-conscious innovation and top-tier taste.