As Heard on ABC Ballarat Radio
When ABC Ballarat’s Steve Martin asked Anthony Kumnick what you do with tonnes of Shiraz grapes without a home, his answer was simple, you don’t waste them.
With the wine industry facing oversupply, quality grapes were being cut from vines and left on the ground. While helping a local grower, Anthony tasted the fruit and knew it deserved better. That moment led to the creation of Tart Tonic.
Inspired by a centuries-old recipe known as a shrub, Tart Tonic blends fruit, sugar and vinegar into a bold, refreshing, alcohol-free drink. After months of refining the balance, Anthony developed a sophisticated flavour with just the right amount of zing – perfect with soda water as a grown-up alternative to beer or wine.
The product was showcased to chefs, retailers and food scientists in Melbourne, earning outstanding feedback and a Gold Medal at the Melbourne Fine Food Awards.
What began as a way to prevent waste has grown into an award-winning regional product with provenance. Originally produced in small batches, Tart Tonic is now expanding to meet demand from those seeking a refined, non-alcoholic option.