Local whisky distiller launches into mainland markets

PICTURE: Robbie and Emma Gilligan, Derwent Distillery co-owners.

Dromedary’s whisky distillery is to expand into markets in Victoria and New South Wales, following the success of its latest product launch - two single malts specially matured in a Botrytis cask and a Tawny cask.

The company says its thrilled with the results of its experiments using fortified wine casks to push the taste boundaries of Derwent Valley whisky.

“Our products are shaped by their maturation environment,” says co-owner, Emma Gilligan, noting cool-climate conditions, the unique humidity of 'The Jerry' and significant seasonal temperature shifts enhance the aging process.

“It allows the whisky to develop complexity, depth and a refined balance of cask influence,” she says.

For the Botrytis Single Malt Whisky, the Derwent product was fully matured in casks that previously held Botrytis dessert wine, lending it luscious notes of honey, melons, and green tea, balanced by the rich malt character. 

For its February-released Tawny Cask Single Malt, the whisky was matured in South Australian Tawny Port casks, developing a bold, velvety profile with ripe figs and dates, dark chocolate, and lingering spice. 

In addition to its plans to expanding from Tasmania into Victoria and NSW, Ms Gilligan says she and husband Robbie have just enjoyed a great reception at February’s Whisky Capital Festival in Canberra.

“We were able to introduce our annual Winter Release called 'Cailleach' named after the Scottish Goddess of Winter to a national audience and connect with whisky lovers from across the country,” she says.

Derwent Distillery, on the riverbank at Dromedary draws inspiration from Tasmania’s rich distilling history. 

One of the earliest colonial distilleries in Australia two centuries ago, the original 'Derwent Distillery’ was established alongside the Hobart Rivulet in Gore Street in South Hobart in 1824. 

“Today,” says Emma, “every drop of our whisky is made with Tasmanian-grown barley and pure local water, ensuring a true sense of place in every bottle.”