Tasmania might be the birthplace of whisky in Australia, but over the past several years, it has earned a reputation as one of the world’s top destinations for gin lovers. This is no surprise, given it has the cleanest air in the world, h20-rich waters thanks to its granite geology, and vibrant botanical scene—all essential in gin making.
The island state’s thriving gin industry, with an array of distilleries, produces some of the finest and most unique gins on the market. From traditional London dry gins to more experimental and contemporary blends, nothing is off-limits.
Taste your way through the best gin distilleries in Tasmania and find out what makes them stand out in the competitive world of gin-making.
Lark Distillery
Lark Distillery is considered the oldest and most respected whisky distillery in Australia. In fact, it’s where Australian whisky was born back in 1992. Although, in recent years, Lark has expanded their portfolio to include gin (naturally). What’s more, their “Cassia” gin has won numerous awards, including a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Visit the cellar door for a distillery tour, a gin blending workshop, and a gin cocktail masterclass.
Forty Spotted
Situated in Hobart, Forty Spotted is a unique experience from start to finish. The Gin (Bar), which acts as a cellar door, is where you can partake in special gin blending workshops and cocktail classes. The bar also carries a selection of rare and hard-to-find gins from Tasmania and beyond. As for their own gin, Forty Spotted produces premium small-batch gin using locally sourced botanicals. They are best known for their award-winning “Forty Spotted Rare Tasmanian Gin” and commitment to sustainability.
Hartshorn Distillery
Have you ever had sheep whey gin? No? Neither had I until I went to Hartshorn Distillery, a small family-owned operation just outside of Hobart, pushing the boundaries of gin-making. Their famous Sheep Whey Gin is crafted using whey from their own sheep farm. Visit the farmhouse to explore gins, vodkas, and homemade cheese they make on the property. Book a tasting with a cheese pairing for a unique and different experience.
Southern Wild Distillery
Hidden in Devonport, Southern Wild Distillery produces award-winning gins, including the “Dasher + Fisher” range. Each of their gins is crafted using locally sourced botanicals from the land surrounding them and are known for their distinct flavours and aromas. The Sloe Gin made from foraged Tassie summer sloe berries is definitely a highlight. Visit the distillery to explore the grounds and taste six different Tasmanian landscapes in a gin flight.
McHenry Distillery
Resting on the side of Mount Arthur is McHenry Distillery, the southernmost distillery in Australia. As you can imagine, the views are breathtaking, and you can rent a little eco cabin if you want to perch yourself on a mountain for a night or two. The gin is world-class and has won numerous awards. Be sure to try the Classic Dry, Sloe, and Navy Strength Gin.
Old Kempton Distillery
Craft your own gin at Old Kempton, nestled in the Derwent Valley, where you will find most of Tasmania’s wine and spirit producers. Their signature Forgotten Cask gin is a must-try, as is a gin tasting in the 1840s colonial inn.
Killara Distillery
This family distillery is located in Northern Tasmania, where rolling hills meet a small town with European charm. But that’s not what makes this distillery special. Owned and operated by Kristy Booth-Lark, Killara is one of the few distilleries in the world to be owned and operated by a female. Try the “Apothecary Gin”, crafted using 16 botanicals and known for its complex and balanced flavours.
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