The Southern Midlands of Tasmania is a haven for whiskey enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of historical sites, traditional English-style villages, and an array of distilleries that cater to diverse tastes. At the forefront of these establishments are Lark Distillery and Old Kempton Distillery, both steeped in history and renowned for their exceptional products. Lark Distillery, established in 1992, holds the distinction of being the first Australian distillery to produce single-malt whisky in over 150 years. Named after founder Bill Lark, the distillery has earned a reputation as one of the top global producers of whisky, maintaining a steadfast focus on preserving Tasmanian values throughout its operations.
Old Kempton Distillery, situated in an 1842 coaching inn, provides visitors with a wide range of whisky-related experiences. These include personalized tasting flights, guided distillery tours, and even courses on becoming a master distiller. Additionally, during Tasmanian Whisky Week, the distillery offers complimentary tours and tastings, providing an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into the world of whisky. Another notable establishment, Callington Mill Distillery, is set to open in the historic Callington Mill in Oatlands. Built in 1837, the mill is undergoing transformation into a whisky distillery, promising to bring back its original purpose in a wholly legal capacity.
Meanwhile, the Southern Midlands region is also home to McHenry Distillery, located on the Tasman Peninsula. As Australia's southernmost whisky distillery, McHenry's prides itself on using pure spring water in its productions, offering tastings, tours, and even a self-contained eco cabin for those wishing to immerse themselves fully in the local area. Lastly, the region hosts Killara Distillery, owned and operated by Kristy Booth-Lark, the daughter of Tasmanian whiskey pioneer Bill Lark. One of only a few distilleries worldwide run by women, Killara Distillery presents a unique opportunity to own a barrel that will be matured and bottled over the next 2+ years, creating a personal connection to the whisky-making process.
These distilleries, combined with the region's historical significance and natural beauty, make the Southern Midlands of Tasmania an ideal destination for whiskey aficionados seeking a comprehensive and engaging experience.