10 of the best distilleries to visit around Australia

Australia has a range of craft distilleries brewing everything from ginger beer through to whisky and gin and it’s worth getting hands-on to understand the craft behind your favourite tipple. 

By Carolyn Tate

You might notice that distilleries are having quite a moment in Australia. Although we’ve been producing world-class spirits for many years now, distillers have more recently been mastering the art of incorporating uniquely Australian ingredients to create distinctive spirits.

The best bit? You can visit them and sample their wares in a range of cellar door experiences – and you might even be able to have a go at making your own.

1. Archie Rose Distilling Co, Sydney, NSW

Sydney has emerged as a hub for urban distilling, with Archie Rose Distilling Co making its presence felt over the past few years. Located in the suburb of Rosebery, this award-winning distillery offers a diverse range of spirits at their on-site bar. You can also blend your own gin, where you'll learn the art of mixing spirits and create your own custom blend. The experience includes taking home two bottles of your signature gin, making it a truly memorable and hands-on experience for spirit enthusiasts. 

Producing: Gink, whisky, vodka

More info: Archie Rose

2. Black Gate Distillery, Mendooran, NSW 

In central NSW, about 45 minutes from Dubbo, Black Gate Distillery is the first hot climate whisky distillery in Australia. A haven for those who appreciate traditional distilling methods and high-quality ingredients, Black Gate prides itself on its simplicity, producing only a few select spirits, including single malt whisky, dark rum, and quandong liqueur. Black Gate's commitment to quality and authenticity has earned it a place among the best distilleries in New South Wales and a string of awards.

Producing: Whisky, Rum, Liqueur

More info: Black Gate Distillery

3. Four Pillars Distillery, Yarra Valley, Vic

In the Yarra Valley, about an hour outside of Melbourne, Four Pillars Distillery was founded with a vision to craft a gin that embodies contemporary Australia. They successfully achieved this goal with their beloved Rare Dry Gin, but their innovative spirit didn't stop there. The distillery proudly offers unique spirits such as Spiced Negroni Gin and Bloody Shiraz Gin, showcasing a distinctive side of Australian distilling. Visit the distillery door to sample these exceptional creations and experience the diversity of Four Pillars' spirit offerings.

Producing: Gin

More info: Four Pillars Distillery

4. Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Tamborine Mountain, Qld

Perched on top of a mountain in the Gold Coast hinterland, Tamborine Mountain Distillery offers a one-of-a-kind experience for spirit enthusiasts. The distillery prides itself on crafting unique boutique spirits using native ingredients and flora. From apricot schnapps to eucalyptus gum leaf vodka, their extensive range is a testament to their commitment to innovation and experimentation. You can indulge in a sampling of their diverse offerings in the tasting room, where your taste buds will embark on an unforgettable adventure. We dare you to leave without taking a little something home with you. 

Producing: Spirit, dessert, botanical, cello, fruit, nut, seed, and spice liqueurs

More info: Tamborine Mountain Distillery

5. Bundaberg Rum Distillery, Bundaberg, Qld

Queensland’s iconic Bundaberg Rum boasts a rich heritage that spans over a century. Located in the charming town of Bundaberg, this distillery has earned international recognition for its exceptional rum. Using only the finest locally-sourced ingredients, Bundaberg's skilled distillers craft bold, smooth rum that you can enjoy on-site. For the ultimate rum enthusiast, Bundaberg offers a unique opportunity to become a distiller for a day with their ‘blend your own rum’ experience, allowing you to create your own signature blend to take home.

Producing: Rum, ginger beer, liqueur

More info: Bundaberg Rum

6. McHenry Distillery, Port Arthur, Tas

Down in the rugged wilderness of the Tasman Peninsula, McHenry Distillery holds the distinction of being Australia's southernmost whisky distillery. The area is said to have some of the world's purest air, which, combined with the property's fresh water spring, results in a range of smooth, distinctly Australian spirits. Try the pure Tasmanian gin and whisky at the cellar door, open seven days a week. Be sure to try the sloe gin, crafted using berries hand-picked from the hedgerows of northern Tasmania, for a truly unique taste of the Apple Isle.

Producing: Gin, vodka, ale

More info: McHenry Distillery 

7. Lark Distillery, Hobart, Tas

In the heart of Hobart, Tasmania, lies Lark Distillery, a pioneering spirit maker that has been perfecting the art of malt whisky production since 1992. Founded by an entrepreneur who recognised Tasmania's potential for crafting exceptional malt whisky, Lark has grown into one of the country's leading distillers, employing traditional methods to create premium spirits. At the cellar door, you can sample an impressive array of over 150 malt whiskies (although we recommend you don’t try them all on the same visit!), showcasing the distillery's commitment to quality and diversity.

Producing: Whisky

More info: Lark Distillery

8. Hoochery Distillery, Kunanurra, WA

Tucked away in the picturesque Kimberley region of Western Australia, Hoochery Distillery has been steadily producing top-notch spirits since its inception. As the oldest continuously operating distillery in the state, Hoochery has mastered the art of crafting no-nonsense, delicious rum using sugar cane grown in the surrounding area. Visitors to this remote distillery can sample the fruits of their labour while basking in the spectacular surroundings. 

Producing: Rum, gin, whiskey, liqueur, balsamic

More info: Hoochery

9. Whipper Snapper Distillery, Perth, WA

Whipper Snapper's humble beginnings in a tiny shed have blossomed into a thriving distillery, now renowned as one of Perth's finest - and the home of the world’s best corn whiskey. Their artisanal whiskies are carefully crafted using 100% locally sourced grains, showcasing a commitment to quality and innovation. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery, and enjoy private tastings and masterclasses. For those seeking a more leisurely encounter, the on-site Whisky & Coffee Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere to savour their spirits.

Producing: Whiskey (including rye, corn, quinoa and wheat), moonshine, rum and coffee)

More info: Whipper Snapper Distillery

10. Applewood Distillery, Adelaide Hills, SA

Nestled in the picturesque Adelaide Hills, Applewood Distillery is a game-changer in the world of spirits. Their innovative approach to distillation is reflected in their unique range of gins and liqueurs, which boldly showcase local ingredients. Applewood's spirits are truly 'hyper-creative', with a focus on experimentation and a willingness to push boundaries. One must-try creation is the Okar, an Australian twist on an Italian liqueur, infused with the rare and exotic flavours of native riberries and strawberry gum leaf.

Producing: Gin, liqueur, vermouth

More info: Applewood Distillery