.png "World Of Whisky")
Australian Whisky
Australian whisky production began in 1820 when distillation was legalised by the governor of New South Wales. Shortly after, the first legal distillery in Hobart, Tasmania, was established by 1822. However, the fledgling whisky industry in Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania) faced a setback between the 1820s and 1830s, leading to a halt in whisky production on the island from 1838 until 1990.
During the 1825-1830s period, Hobart Distillery and two other distilleries in Sydney shifted their focus from whisky to rum. Nonetheless, the whisky industry underwent a transformation from colonial-style to boutique-style whiskies, shaping the modern distilleries we know today.
While Australian whisky shares some similarities with traditional Scottish whisky, its subtleness in flavor sets it apart, providing a unique taste. Australian whisky is also renowned for its experimental nature, often utilising indigenous ingredients and wine casks in the production process.
How Did Whisky Culture Enter Australia?
Whisky entered Australian shores when British and Irish settlers came to Australia, bringing with them the distillery tradition that shaped the Australian Whisky culture. Following the 1862 Victorian Distillation Act, the first large Whisky distillery started in 1863, with the introduction of John Dunn's Warrenheip Distillery. Located outside of Ballarat, it emerged as a prominent player in the whisky scene, eventually becoming the country's second-largest distillery by 1930. In 1888, the grand Federal Distillery was constructed in Port Melbourne, achieving global recognition as the third-largest distillery in the world during that era. By 1894, it had already produced over 1.1 million liters of spirits in a single year. However, it's important to note that not all of this production was classified as whisky, as the distillery also crafted other spirits such as brandy and gin. Sadly, in 1838, then governor of Tasmania, John Franklin introduced legislation that killed off the burgeoning Tasmanian distilling scene overnight. But in 1901, Mr. Bill Lark (affectionately referred to as the unofficial Godfather of Australian Whisky) petitioned the government to amend the legislation, thus triggering the eventual revival of the Australian whisky industry.
From Blended to Boutique Whiskies
Blended whisky emerged in Australia during the Victorian period (1930-1980). During this period larger British distilleries started to open within Australia, using imported British materials. Edinburgh Distillery (now Diageo) opened in 1930, becoming the largest producer, and later merged with Federal Distilleries. After the 2nd World war, London-based Gilbey (the then 2nd largest distillery in the world) opened a distillery in Melbourne while acquiring Adelaide-based Milne Distillery. This solidifies the Australian whisky industry to be dominated by two international companies. At the time, laws gave both companies a 40% advantage in prices over imported Scotch whisky. As this law was in the act, both companies took advantage and produced lower quality whiskies, which resulted in poor quality and reputation in the Australian whisky industry. However, in 1960, the previously advantageous laws were removed, allowing more affordable imported Scottish whisky to flood the market. As a consequence, the demand for locally produced Australian whisky significantly dropped, leading to the closure or sale of many major whisky distilleries by 1980. Then, in the early 1990s, small-crafted distilleries began to emerge, starting with Lark Distilleries in 1992. Before the 1990s, distillations were only available through large companies due to the distillation act of 1901, which prevented smaller distilleries from getting licensed. Fast forward to 2020, and many of these smaller Australian distilleries have grown to become some of the largest players in the industry. Over the years, numerous independent distilleries emerged, and as of 2020, approximately 293 distilleries are actively contributing to the Australian whisky landscape.
Australian Whisky Today
From more traditional methods to what we know today, Australian whisky has stood the test of time, emerging into a leading industry in the country. What started as a spirit that was brought to Australia by the British turned into a nationwide drink that is enjoyed by many. With innovative new techniques for crafting this flavourful drink and unique ingredients that supplement its flavours, Australian whisky is today known for its international recognition and quality. It is also appreciated for its regional identity, shown through some of the brand names, showcasing its region. Overall, Australian whisky has carved out its place in the whisky world, attracting attention for its quality, innovation, and distinctive character. With a growing number of distilleries and a spirit of experimentation, the Australian whisky industry continues to evolve, offering an exciting and diverse range of whiskies for enthusiasts to explore.
Ivan Myers Whisky Buyer, Matcher & Seller.
What Makes a Real Australian Whisky?
Australian whisky is produced in a variety of locations in Australia, although most regions in Australia have a similar climate, resulting in an accelerated maturation process, which gives Australian whisky a slightly subtler taste compared to its Scottish counterpart.
Most Australian whiskies are modelled after the scotch tradition; however, Australia is known to produce mostly Single Malt whiskies and has to be legally bottled at least at 40% ABV.
Noteworthy experimentation in Australian whisky involves using indigenous Australian ingredients and maturing whiskies in wine casks, resulting in distinct and unique flavors.. These innovative techniques showcase the creativity of Australian distillers and produce whiskies with a truly exceptional taste.
Besides the traditional usage of barley, Australian whisky is also produced with rye, wheat, and other blended grains, giving a variety of different tastes throughout different Whisky industry brands. Australian whisky captured worldwide attention when Sullivan's Cove won Best Single Malt Whisky in the World in 2014 at the World Whisky Awards. They have since become the Gold Standard and now you can only purchase whisky from them via a ballot system as they sell out every single barrel they put out.
Our Favourite Australian Whisky Brands
Our Australian Whisky comes from the best distilleries in the country some popular brands include, Sullivan’s Cove, Hobart, Lark, Amber Lane, Cape Bryon, Old Kempton, and many more. Get a taste of some delectable Australian Whiskies today!
