Hepburn & Ross

Hepburn Distillery

Region
  • Australia, Victoria
Awards
  • Gold Medal for Premium Organic Potato Vodka at the World Vodka Awards, Silver Medal at the World Vodka Awards 2023, Gold at the World Spirit Awards for their Vodka
Website
  • https://hepburndistillery.com/
Phone Number
  • +61407790043
Address
  • 1 Gin La, Daylesford VIC 3460, Australia

Hepburn Distillery entrance with sign and corrugated metal exterior.

History of Hepburn Distillery

Hepburn Distillery, inspired by the mineral-rich soil and abundant rainfall of Hepburn Shire, was founded with a commitment to local and sustainable practices.

The distillery, nestled in a forested area known for its cold climate, focuses on producing spirits using locally grown, organic, and seasonal ingredients, including botanicals for their gin.

Sustainability and Unique Production

Sustainability is at the core of Hepburn Distillery’s operations. They use recycled and FSC-approved paper for packaging and labels and compost all organic waste on-site.

The distillery offsets the carbon footprint of imported materials, like bottles manufactured in China, through tree planting initiatives in partnership with Fifteen Trees.

Seasonal and Unique Spirit Batches

Embracing the cycles of nature, Hepburn Distillery produces unique batches of spirits, taking advantage of seasonal produce for experimentation and flavor development.

They forage local ingredients like blackberries and lemons, creating distinct flavor profiles for each season.

Awards Won by Hepburn Distillery

  • Gold Medal for Premium Organic Potato Vodka at the World Vodka Awards: This award recognizes Hepburn’s vodka as one of the finest in its category, globally​​.
  • Silver Medal at the World Vodka Awards 2023: Their vodka received this award, noted for its citrusy nose and flavors like toffee, apricots, raisins, and a hint of chocolate finish​​.
  • Country Winner for Cask Aged Organic Potato Vodka at the World Vodka Awards: This particular product was celebrated for its light woody notes, smoky and peppery taste, and a light vanilla finish​​.
  • Gold at the World Spirit Awards for their Vodka: This recognition further establishes Hepburn Distillery’s reputation for producing high-quality spirits​​.

Hepburn Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Tasting Experiences

Hepburn Distillery in Daylesford offers a variety of tasting experiences for visitors. Guests can enjoy a tasting flight of either gin or vodka, savor a seasonal cocktail, or relax with their favorite gin and tonic at the distillery’s bar.

The distillery also offers exclusive spirits for purchase, many of which are only available directly from their cellar door. Visitors are welcome to walk in for tastings or book a full distillery tour and guided tasting.

Workshop Opportunities

For those looking for a more hands-on experience, Hepburn Distillery conducts workshops where participants can create their own whiskey from scratch.

This full-day workshop, priced at $390, includes grinding malted barley, understanding the distillation process, and learning about the elements that give whiskey its unique flavor.

The workshop also includes a gourmet lunch, whiskey tasting, and the opportunity for participants to sample their whiskey after 12 months of barrel aging.

After 2 years, they get priority access to purchase the whiskey they made at wholesale prices. The workshop is limited to 8 participants per session to ensure an immersive experience.

Location and Booking

Hepburn Distillery is located at 1 Gin Lane, Daylesford, VIC 3460, and is open throughout the week with varying hours. Bookings for both the tastings and workshops can be made through the distillery’s website or by contacting them directly.

The Hepburn Distillery experience offers a unique blend of tastings and hands-on workshops, making it an ideal destination for both casual visitors and whiskey enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of the spirit-making process.

Flask & Barrel Review of Hepburn Distillery

Recently, I had the chance to drop by Hepburn Distillery in Daylesford, and I’ve got to say, it was a pretty awesome experience. As someone who’s been around the block with distillery tours, I’ve got a pretty high bar, and Hepburn Distillery hit the mark.

First off, the vibe of the place is just right. It’s got this laid-back, yet professional feel that’s perfect for a distillery. The tasting experience was top-notch.

Whether it was the gin or vodka flights, or the seasonal cocktails, everything was spot on. And let me tell you, being able to buy exclusive spirits right from the cellar door? That’s a collector’s dream.

But the real highlight for me was the whiskey-making workshop. It’s not every day you get to grind your own malted barley and dive deep into the distillation process.

The workshop was hands-on, informative, and just a whole lot of fun. Plus, the gourmet lunch and whiskey tasting were the cherries on top.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the place can get a bit busy, but that’s just a testament to how great it is. And honestly, it didn’t detract from the experience one bit.

Overall, I’m giving Hepburn Distillery a solid 4.7 out of 5. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just looking for a unique experience, this distillery is well worth the visit.

The combination of great tastings, hands-on workshops, and a fantastic atmosphere makes for an unforgettable visit.

What To Do Nearby Hepburn Distillery

  • Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve (Distance: Not precisely available): This 30-hectare reserve is home to over 80% of Victoria’s mineral springs. It features Soda, Sulphur, Locarno, and Wyuna Springs, set in a stunning natural environment and listed on the Victorian Heritage Register​​.
  • The Blowhole (Distance: 1.2 miles from Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve): A notable body of water that offers scenic views​​.
  • Glenlyon Estate: A vineyard offering wine tasting experiences in a serene setting.
  • Hepburn Lagoon – Trail Rides: Provides horseback riding trails for a unique outdoor experience.
  • Mount Franklin: A natural area with mountains and wildlife, great for hiking and nature exploration.
  • Cricket Willow: A specialized museum for cricket enthusiasts.
  • Hepburn Pool: A natural water spot for swimming amidst wildlife areas.
  • Loddon Falls: A picturesque waterfall perfect for nature lovers.
  • Hepburn Springs Golf Club: A golf course set in beautiful natural surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Hepburn Distillery?

  • The Virgin Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 77 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs VIC 3461, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353482271. 
  • The Conservatory: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 124 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs VIC 3461, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353482202. 
  • Larder Daylesford: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 57A Vincent St, Daylesford VIC 3460, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353484700.

What hotels are near Hepburn Distillery?

  • Daylesford Central Motor Inn: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 54 Albert St, Daylesford VIC 3460, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353482029. 
  • Central Springs Inn: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 6 Camp St, Daylesford VIC 3460, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353483388. 
  • Hotel Bellinzona: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 77 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs VIC 3461, Australia.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +61353482271.