Belgrove Distillery

History of Belgrove Distillery

Belgrove Distillery is an Australian distillery renowned for its unique approach to whiskey production. Situated in Tasmania, the distillery has garnered attention for its sustainability practices and innovative techniques.

Founding of Belgrove Distillery

Belgrove Distillery was founded in 2008 by Peter Bignell. Bignell, a farmer by trade, embarked on the journey of distilling whiskey with a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The distillery is located on Bignell’s family farm, which provides much of the raw material needed for whiskey production.

Sustainable Practices

One of the defining features of Belgrove Distillery is its dedication to sustainability. Bignell has implemented several eco-friendly practices, making Belgrove one of the greenest distilleries in the world. The distillery operates on biodiesel made from waste cooking oil, and the whiskey is distilled in a copper still powered by the farm’s own barley.

Types of Whiskey Offered

Belgrove Distillery produces a variety of whiskeys, each with its own distinct characteristics:

Belgrove Rye Whiskey: Made from 100% rye grown on the farm, this whiskey is known for its spicy and robust flavor profile.
Belgrove Peated Rye: This variant incorporates peat smoke, adding a layer of complexity and smokiness to the traditional rye whiskey.
Belgrove Oat Whiskey: A unique offering made from oats, providing a creamy and smooth texture with subtle flavors.
Belgrove White Rye: An unaged version of their rye whiskey, offering a raw and unfiltered taste experience.

Innovative Techniques

Peter Bignell’s background in farming and engineering has led to some innovative techniques in whiskey production at Belgrove Distillery. For example, he designed and built much of the distillery equipment himself, including the copper pot still. This hands-on approach allows for a high degree of customization and experimentation, resulting in unique and high-quality products.

Awards Won by Belgrove Distillery

In the Bottle Award (2016)

Belgrove Distillery won the inaugural “In the Bottle” award at the 2016 delicious. Produce Awards.
This award celebrates Australia’s artisan drink makers who produce premium, hand-crafted products.
Recognized for its sustainable practices, including the use of organically grown grains and biodiesel made from spent cooking oil.

International Exposure (2020)

Featured on the National Geographic series Uncharted with Gordon Ramsay.
Highlighted for unique production methods, including the use of sheep dung to add a smoky character to the whiskey.

Melbourne Royal Show Awards

Belgrove’s oat whiskey received silver and bronze awards at the Melbourne Royal Show.
These awards recognize the quality and distinctiveness of Belgrove’s products.

Belgrove Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Belgrove Distillery, located in Kempton, Tasmania, offers a unique and immersive tour experience that showcases the distillery’s commitment to sustainability and innovative whiskey production methods. Here’s what you can expect during a visit:

Guided Distillery Tour

Overview of the Distillery: The tour begins with an introduction to Belgrove Distillery, providing insights into its history, founding by Peter Bignell in 2008, and the sustainable practices that set it apart from other distilleries.
Sustainable Practices: Visitors learn about the eco-friendly methods used in the production process, such as the use of biodiesel made from spent cooking oil, and the closed-loop system where the byproducts are fed to the farm’s livestock.
Grain-to-Glass Process: The tour covers the entire whiskey-making process, from growing and malting the grain on-site to fermenting, distilling, and aging the whiskey. This comprehensive approach highlights Belgrove’s commitment to a paddock-to-bottle production method.

Tasting Sessions

Whiskey Tastings: Guests are treated to tastings of Belgrove’s various whiskeys, including their signature rye whiskey, peated rye, oat whiskey, and white rye. Each tasting is accompanied by detailed explanations of the flavor profiles and the unique characteristics of each type of whiskey.
Innovative Spirits: The tasting session may also include some of Belgrove’s more experimental spirits, providing a broader perspective on the distillery’s creative output.

Hands-On Experience

Distillation Demonstration: Visitors can witness the distillation process in action. Peter Bignell often demonstrates how he operates the custom-built copper pot still, offering a hands-on understanding of the craft involved in making Belgrove’s whiskeys.
Interactive Elements: Depending on the season and current operations, guests might have the opportunity to participate in some aspects of the production process, such as malting or barrel aging.

Farm Tour

Explore the Farm: The tour extends beyond the distillery to the surrounding farm, where visitors can see the fields where the rye and other grains are grown. This part of the tour emphasizes the importance of locally sourced ingredients and sustainable farming practices.
Livestock Interaction: Guests can also interact with the farm’s livestock, learning about the integral role they play in Belgrove’s eco-friendly production cycle.

Flask & Barrel Review of Belgrove Distillery

I just got back from a trip to Tasmania, where I had the chance to visit Belgrove Distillery, and wow, what an experience. As a whiskey collector who’s toured countless distilleries, Belgrove stands out in a league of its own. Here’s my take on it:

The Tour Experience

First off, the setting is just beautiful. Nestled in the countryside of Kempton, Belgrove Distillery offers a rustic, charming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The tour kicked off with Peter Bignell, the founder, sharing the backstory of Belgrove. His passion and dedication to sustainability are truly inspiring. You don’t often meet someone who powers their entire distillery with biodiesel made from old cooking oil!

Sustainable Practices

What really blew me away was how green everything is. From growing and malting the rye on-site to feeding the leftover mash to their sheep, every step of the process is eco-friendly. Peter even built his own copper stills and runs everything on biodiesel. It’s amazing to see such commitment to the environment while producing top-notch whiskey.

Whiskey Tastings

Now, onto the whiskey. We got to taste several varieties, including their signature Rye Whiskey, which was rich and spicy, and their unique Oat Whiskey, which had a smooth, creamy texture. My favorite had to be the Peated Rye – it had this fantastic smoky flavor that really stood out. Each sip was a testament to the care and craft that goes into every bottle.

Hands-On Learning

Peter didn’t just show us around; he let us get hands-on with some of the processes. Watching him distill the whiskey in his self-built stills was fascinating, and you could really see the artisan approach in every detail.

What To Do Nearby Belgrove Distillery

Old Kempton Distillery (2.8 miles): Located in the historic Dysart House, this distillery offers guided tours, tastings, and a chance to enjoy home-cooked treats in their cozy dining rooms. It’s a perfect spot to explore another local whiskey producer and experience a piece of Tasmanian history.

Kempton Village (2.5 miles): Take a stroll through Kempton Village to see charming 19th-century buildings, including the gothic revival St. Mary’s Church and the historic Wilmot Arms Inn. It’s a great way to soak up the local culture and history.

Tasmanian Wool Centre (21 miles): Head to nearby Ross to visit the Tasmanian Wool Centre. This museum and shop offer insights into the local wool industry and the region’s heritage. You can purchase high-quality wool products and learn about Tasmania’s agricultural history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Belgrove Distillery?

Old Kempton Distillery Café: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Dysart House, 26 Main Street, Kempton, TAS 7030. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +61 3 6259 3086.

The Pancake and Crepe Shop: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1310 Midland Highway, Bagdad, TAS 7030. For reservations, you can contact them at +61 3 6268 6121.

Czeg’s Café: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 46 Bridge Street, Richmond, TAS 7025. For reservations, you can reach them at +61 3 6260 1194.

What hotels are near Belgrove Distillery?

Graham Apartments: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 15 Pirie St, New Town, Hobart, Tasmania 7008. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +61 3 6234 5063.

Mona Pavilions: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 655 Main Rd, Berriedale, Glenorchy, Tasmania 7011. For reservations, you can contact them at +61 3 6277 9900.

The Waggon Boutique Accommodation: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 327 Argyle St, North Hobart TAS 7000. For reservations, you can reach them at 0416951933.