There are some nights on the calendar that simply mean more.
For all of us at Underground Spirits, the annual Project Independence Gala is one of those nights.
Every year, we count down the days. Not simply because it is a wonderful evening filled with celebration, connection and community, but because it reminds us why partnerships matter and how powerful inclusion can be.
We are incredibly proud to once again partner with Project Independence and to introduce The Independence Vodka and The Independence Cocktail; a collaboration created with purpose, care and a shared belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently, make their own choices, and feel a true sense of belonging.
At Underground Spirits, we have always believed that great drinks tell stories. So we wanted to create something that reflected the everyday journey towards independence; a journey shaped by support, empowerment and personal choice.
The result is The Independence Cocktail.
Inspired by the ethos of Project Independence, the cocktail celebrates the stepping stones that help people build confidence and live life on their own terms. Every ingredient, every flavour and every element of the serve has been thoughtfully considered to create an experience that is welcoming, approachable and inclusive.
Perhaps the aspect we are most proud of is that the cocktail has been designed as both a cocktail and a mocktail.
Why? Because inclusion matters.
Whether guests choose to enjoy alcohol or not, everyone deserves exactly the same experience. The same glass. The same garnish. The same story. The same seat at the table.
To us, this is what true hospitality looks like.
It is often the smallest details that make people feel seen, welcomed and included. The Independence Cocktail is our way of recognising that everyone celebrates differently, and that every guest should feel equally part of the occasion.
Our partnership extends beyond the glass.
Every 500ml bottle of The Independence Vodka sold helps create meaningful impact, with $20 from each bottle donated directly to Project Independence to support pathways to independent living for people with intellectual disabilities.
We are enormously proud to stand alongside an organisation doing such important work in our community.
As we prepare for another unforgettable Gala, we look forward to raising a glass, sharing stories, celebrating achievements and, most importantly, celebrating the incredible people at the heart of Project Independence.
Here's to independence, inclusion, community and the power of coming together.
We can't wait to see you at the Gala and here is how to make the cocktail and mocktail!
Make The Independence Cocktail at Home
The Independence Cocktail
You will need:
- 45ml Underground Spirits The Independence Vodka (Caramel)
- 20ml Peach Liqueur
- 15ml Lemon Syrup
- 10ml Fresh Lemon Juice
- 60ml Cold Brew White Tea
- A dash of bitters (optional)
- Lemon peel, to garnish
Method
- Add the vodka, peach liqueur, lemon syrup and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake gently for 15–20 seconds.
- Strain into a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Add the cold brew white tea and bitters, if using.
- Stir gently for 15–20 seconds to chill.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and enjoy.
The Independence Mocktail
The mocktail version tells exactly the same story, simply taking a different path.
You will need:
- 45ml Fresh Apple Juice
- 20ml Peach Juice
- 15ml Lemon Syrup
- 10ml Fresh Lemon Juice
- 60ml Cold Brew White Tea
- A dash of bitters (optional)
- Lemon peel, to garnish
Method
- Add the apple juice, peach juice, lemon syrup and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake gently for 15–20 seconds.
- Strain into a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Add the cold brew white tea and bitters, if using.
- Stir gently for 15–20 seconds to chill.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and enjoy.
Enjoy! Because everyone deserves the same seat at the table.