Top Tasmanian Gin Distilleries You Must Visit

We've all heard about the Tasmanian devil, but have you discovered the devilishly good Tasmanian gin? We're here to let you in on a little secret: Tasmania is quickly becoming a hotspot for premium spirits, especially gin. With its pristine water sources and unique botanicals, this island state is crafting some of the most exciting and flavourful gins in the world. Trust me, once you've tasted Tasmanian gin, you'll be hooked.

Today, we'll explore the rise of Gin in Tasmania and why it's making waves in the spirits industry. I'll take you on a journey through some must-visit gin distilleries in Hobart, where you can sample award-winning gins like Lemon Myrtle Gin and Masala Gin. We'll also chat about how to plan your own Tasmanian gin tour with us so you can experience our incredible distilleries firsthand. Get ready to discover why Tasmanian gin is becoming the talk of the town among spirit enthusiasts everywhere.

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The Rise of Tasmanian Gin

History of gin in Tasmania

Gin has a fascinating history in Tasmania, dating back to the 1800s when early settlers brought this spirit from England. Initially, colonial elites who imported it from Europe mainly consumed it. But it wasn't long before local distillers began to produce their own versions of this popular spirit.

Gin was distilled in small batches across Tasmania during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These family run distilleries used local botanicals like juniper berries, lavender, and lemon myrtle to create unique flavour profiles. Each gin was known for its distinct character and quality.

However, the rise of prohibition in the 1920s forced many of these small distilleries to close. It wasn't until the 1990s that Tasmanian gin began to make a comeback, riding the wave of the global craft spirits trend.

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Unique Tasmanian botanicals

What sets Tasmanian gin apart is its use of native botanicals. These ingredients, some of which can only be found in the island's remote regions, give our gins a truly unique flavour.

One of the most noteworthy botanicals is the Tasmanian pepperberry. It adds a spicy and fruity flavour to the gin, similar to black pepper but with its own distinct character. Another popular ingredient is the native lemon myrtle, which brings a refreshing, zesty, and floral note to the spirit.

We also use Tasmanian native wattle seed, which imparts a nutty and woody flavour. And let's not forget about Kunzea, an exotic botanical that gives our gin an earthy and herbaceous touch.

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Craft distillery boom

The craft distillery boom in Tasmania has been nothing short of remarkable. It all started with Bill Lark, who's considered one of the "fathers" of distilling in Tasmania. In 1992, he set up Lark Distillery, the first distillery on the island to have a distillation licence in around 150 years.

Today, Tasmania is home to several award-winning gin distilleries, each with its own unique production methods and flavour profiles. These small craft distilleries have brought a fresh approach to the industry, using locally sourced and native ingredients to create unique and complex flavour combinations.

The advantage of small-scale production is the ability to experiment with different botanicals and distilling techniques. This attention to detail hasn't gone unnoticed, with Tasmanian gin winning numerous awards at major international spirits competitions.

As Bill Lark puts it, "The rate at which the local market and the international market is looking for our special gin, I'm convinced our local gin is here to stay as an iconic product for Tasmania". And we couldn't agree more. The rise of Tasmanian gin is a testament to our island's unique botanicals, innovative spirit, and commitment to quality.

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Must-Visit Gin Distilleries in Hobart

Section 44 Distillery

When it comes to Tasmanian gin, Section 44 Distillery stands out. Founded by Andrew Patten, Raj Charan Singh, and Stephen Parry, this distillery has quickly become one of the leaders in the Tasmanian and Australian spirits market. What sets them apart is their commitment to quality and unique blend of traditional methods and modern innovations.

It's a gin lover's paradise. Located just a 5-minute drive from Hobart International Airport, it's the perfect first stop on your Tasmanian gin tour. Their gin is crafted using the finest local botanicals and pure Tasmanian water, resulting in a premium product that truly captures the essence of the island.

What impressed their distillation process? It's a labour of love that requires patience and precision. They use custom-made copper stills and a slow distillation process to ensure each bottle of gin has a depth of flavour and smoothness that's hard to match. Trust us, you can taste the difference.

But don't just take our word for it. Section 44's Tasmanian gin has won numerous awards, highlighting their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of their team.

If you're planning a visit, we highly recommend taking a tour of the distillery. You'll see firsthand how they combine traditional and modern techniques to produce what they proudly call the "best Tasmanian gin." And, of course, you'll get to taste their award-winning spirits.

Remember, Section 44 isn't just about gin. They also produce exceptional Tasmanian whisky, so if you're a whisky fan, you're in for a treat too. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or just curious about the craft distilling process, Section 44 Distillery is a must-visit spot in Hobart.

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Planning Your Tasmanian Gin Tour

The best time to visit

Tasmania's diverse climate makes it a year-round destination for gin enthusiasts. We've found that each season offers a unique experience. The island's pristine water and clean air contribute to the exceptional quality of Tasmanian gin. With its temperate maritime climate, you can enjoy gin tasting any time of the year. However, we recommend visiting during the warmer months from October to March for the best outdoor experiences.

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Tasting tips

To truly appreciate Tasmanian gin, follow these tasting tips:

1. Start with a neat tasting: Pour the gin into a round, thin-walled glass and sip it at room temperature.
2. Engage your senses: Swirl the gin, sniff it gently, and note the aromas.
3. Taste mindfully: Let the gin rest on your tongue, noticing the texture and flavours.
4. Experiment: Try the gin with ice, soda water, and tonic water to experience different flavour profiles.

Remember, Tasmanian gins often feature unique local botanicals like native lemon myrtle, anise myrtle, and pepperberry. These give the gins their distinctive flavours, so pay attention to these notes during your tasting.

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Seasonal gin festivals and events

To enhance your Tasmanian gin experience, plan your visit around these exciting events:

1. Tasmanian Gin and Spirits Fair: Held annually in October, this festival celebrates artisan Tasmanian spirits. It's a great opportunity to taste a variety of gins and meet the distillers.
2. Gin-uary Hobart Gin Festival: Taking place in January, this is Hobart's original and largest gin festival. It's a fantastic way to kick off the new year with gin tastings and distiller chats.
3. Tasmanian Whisky Week: Although focused on whisky, many gin distilleries participate in this event, offering a chance to explore both spirits.

These events allow you to taste a wide range of Tasmanian gins and provide opportunities to learn about the craft from the distillers themselves. For a full Tasmanian experience, don't forget to check out the food trucks and live music that often accompany these festivals.

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Conclusion

Tasmania's gin scene is truly something special. The island's unique botanicals and pristine water sources have given rise to a thriving craft distillery industry, producing gins that are making waves worldwide. From the award-winning Section 44 Distillery, just a stone's throw from Hobart International Airport, to the many other talented producers across the state, there's no shortage of exceptional Tasmanian gin to discover. These distilleries are not just making gin; they're creating experiences that showcase the best of what Tasmania has to offer.

A Tasmanian gin tour is a must-do adventure for gin lovers and curious travellers alike. Whether you're sipping a gin neat, trying it in a cocktail, or chatting with passionate distillers at a festival, you're in for a treat. The flavours, aromas, and stories behind each bottle make for an unforgettable journey through Tasmania's gin landscape. To get a taste of this gin revolution at home, why not shop now and bring a piece of Tasmania to your own bar?

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FAQs

Is gin a well-known product from Tasmania?

Indeed, Tasmania's gin industry has become internationally acclaimed for its exquisite craftsmanship, distinctive flavours, and superior quality.

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Which spirits is Tasmania renowned for producing?

Tasmania is not only renowned for its top-tier whiskies but also for its gin and vodkas. The region's spirits, once considered a less prestigious drink, have been transformed into a choice for the affluent, featuring a diverse range of flavours and bottle designs.

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Where is Pure Origin gin produced?

Pure Origin gin is crafted in Tasmania using traditional copper pot stills. It features a classic juniper taste, complemented by earthy and herbal undertones, with hints of bergamot and lavender, subtle spices, and a lingering finish.

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