On Thursday, June 12th, 2025, the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro,GA, in partnership with Gather and Grow series, hosted a sold-out evening of botanical brilliance and spirited tasting with Juniper & Gin: From the Berry to Bottle. About 50 guest gathered in the lush garden to enjoy good company, delicious small bites and plant education.
The event featured an engaging presentation by Ted Stephens, renowned plantsman and owner of Nurseries Caroliniana in North Augusta, SC since 1972, sharing his passion for Junipers and their horticultural importance. Stephens, a beloved figure in the plant world, captivated attendees with his deep knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
Complementing the botanical talk was a Gin Tasting led by Jill Higgins co-owner of 1861 Distillery in Thomasville, GA.
Todd Beasley, Director of the Botanic Garden, welcomed guests with enthusiasm and a touch of humor, saying, “It will be a berry good time!” He highlighted the cultural connection between plants and people, praising guest speaker Dr. Stephens as “one of the most notable plantsmen of our time,” with over 50 years of influence in the ornamental plant world. Beasley also thanked Brian and Jill Higgins of 1861 Distillery for joining the event, expressing excitement about showcasing Georgia- and South Carolina-grown products through this unique blend of education and entertainment.
Guests mingled over a lush buffet, catered by the Gather and Grow committee, led by Chairperson Leigh Whitaker and her incredible team of volunteers.
Attendees enjoyed a delicious spread that included smoked tuna dip with club crackers, key lime phyllo cups, smoked salmon crostini, BLT skewers, asparagus wrapped in prosciutto, cucumber roll-ups, thumbprint cookies with strawberry jam, artichoke, sun-dried tomato and provolone skewers, salsa and chips, fruit cookies, fresh berry and cantaloupe cups, and a well-stocked refreshment station.
The evening featured a warm welcome and engaging presentation from Ted Stephens, who shared his passion for rare and unusual ornamental plants. Through a rich slideshow, he guided the audience through the vibrant world of Georgia’s native flora. “You have to see and appreciate the beauty of all our wonderful natives that are part of the rich biodiversity of Georgia,” added Director Todd Beasley.
As a special treat, guests were entered into a raffle giveaway featuring specialty plants from Nurseries Caroliniana—a fitting botanical bonus to the night.
The spotlight turned to the world of distilling with Jill Higgins, co-owner and Director of Marketing for 1861 Distillery. Higgins proudly announced a recent accolade: “We were just named the #1 distillery in Georgia and we’re incredibly proud of that. While we're known for our Bourbon, Amaretto, and Gin, tonight is all about Gin.”
Rooted in Southern tradition, ‘1861 Distillery’ reflects a slower, more intentional way of life. Higgins shared “We take a slow, thoughtful approach, one that honors tradition and quality. It’s the spirit of Georgia in every bottle.” Higgins explained, “Juniper is what makes Gin… Gin. It's 80% of the flavor profile. Most people describe the taste as fresh, woody, and a little sharp. Juniper is to Gin what Grapes are to Wine.”
Guests were guided through a tasting of 3 distinct Gins:
- Traditional Gin - the most Juniper
-Floral Gin -rose,chamomile, lavender.
- Warming cold-compound Gin - clove, cinnamon,ginger.
Higgins explained their unique process: “Our cold-compound Gin has color because we infuse the botanicals after distillation. It’s slower and more expensive, but the quality speaks for itself and we think it’s worth every step”
The evening of celebrating Georgia's natural beauty and the timeless joy of learning something new was unforgettable… bringing botany and craft distilling together.
