Malt whisky production is steeped in tradition, tried, tested and proven. However, the range of malt whisky is immense. This makes the industry all the more exciting. There are numerous variables that influence the quality of whisky produced. Many of those variables can be controlled and they include water source, storage time and location, alcohol content, previous barrel usage, peat source and percentage use. The list goes on. Climatic, geological and altitudinal conditions provide Tasmania with numerous distinct characteristics that can be utilised in the production of high quality and unique whiskies. This is the path that we hope to pursue.In the 90’s there were a small number of distilleries that established within the State that were not successful due to lack of knowledge, or funds or commitment or a combination of all three. However, they must be congratulated on realising the potential for whisky production within Tasmania.
Take a punt, take a risk, and commit ! The remaining commercial distilleries that have established in SE Australia particularly in Tasmania have taken that punt and have taken that risk and have committed to the long-term development of industry. Larks Distillery, Tasmania Distillery and Hellyers Road Distillery have committed through infrastructure investment and expertise development and are now producing Tasmanian malt whisky of great potential. What was considered a novelty in the early 90’s has now taken on a more serious element with production on the increase.
