Hobart Whisky brand logo, Tasmanian Single Malt.

Old Hobart Distillery

Region
  • Tasmania, Australia
Awards
  • Excellence at World Whisky Masters 2014, Triumph at the World of Whisky in Sydney:
Website
  • https://overeemwhisky.com/
Phone Number
  • +61418399077
Address
  • 4/30 Patriarch Dr, Huntingfield TAS 7055, Australia

Whisky barrels in distillery storage warehouse

History of Old Hobart Distillery

Establishment and Founder

The Old Hobart Distillery, a renowned name in the world of whiskey, was founded by Casey Overeem. The distillery has its roots in Tasmania, Australia, and its journey began in the early 2000s. Casey Overeem, inspired by his passion for whiskey and distilling, embarked on this venture after gaining considerable experience and insights during his visits to several distilleries across the world, particularly in Scandinavia.

The Birth of Overeem Whiskey

The first batch of whiskey was produced in 2007, marking the official beginning of the Old Hobart Distillery’s journey in whiskey production. The distillery quickly garnered attention for its meticulous approach to whiskey-making, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship. This dedication led to the creation of the distillery’s signature brand, Overeem Whiskey, which has become synonymous with Tasmanian whiskey.

Distinctive Features and Recognition

The distillery is distinguished for its small batch production, which allows for greater control and refinement of the whiskey. The use of smaller casks accelerates the maturation process, imparting a unique character to the whiskey. Overeem Whiskey has received numerous accolades and recognition in various international spirit competitions, further cementing its reputation in the global whiskey market.

Expansion and Legacy

Over the years, the Old Hobart Distillery has expanded its reach, exporting its exquisite whiskeys to numerous countries. The legacy of Casey Overeem lives on through the distillery’s commitment to excellence and innovation in whiskey production. It continues to be a significant player in the Tasmanian whiskey scene, contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a producer of world-class spirits.

Awards Won by Old Hobart Distillery

  1. Excellence at World Whisky Masters 2014:
    • Award: High Praise for Ultra-Premium Overeem Whiskey
    • Details: At this prestigious international event, the distillery’s ultra-premium Overeem whiskey stood out for its remarkable balance and accessibility. This recognition at the World Whisky Masters, known for its rigorous standards, highlights the distillery’s excellence in creating refined and high-quality spirits.
    • Significance: This accolade solidifies Old Hobart Distillery’s reputation on the global stage, showcasing their ability to compete with top whiskey brands worldwide.
  2. Triumph at the World of Whisky in Sydney:
    • Award: Overall Winner in the Australian Section
    • Details: This significant win at a renowned whiskey event in Sydney underscores the distillery’s preeminence in the Australian whiskey industry. The competition brings together the finest whiskey producers, making this victory a testament to the quality and distinctiveness of Old Hobart Distillery’s products.
    • Significance: This award reinforces the distillery’s status as a leader in Australian whiskey production, celebrating its contribution to elevating the country’s whiskey profile.
  3. Jim Murray’s Liquid Gold Award:
    • Award: Liquid Gold for Port Cask Matured Overeem Single Malt
    • Details: Jim Murray, an esteemed whiskey critic and author of The Whiskey Bible, awarded the Liquid Gold accolade to the Port Cask Matured Overeem Single Malt. This award is given to whiskeys that achieve a high rating in his annual whiskey guide.
    • Significance: Receiving this award from a globally recognized whiskey authority like Jim Murray signifies the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the distillery’s whiskey.

Old Hobart Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Old Hobart Distillery, a jewel in the crown of Tasmania’s rich distillery heritage, offers a unique experience for spirits enthusiasts. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Hobart, this distillery is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Visitors are welcomed to explore the rich history and intricate process of distillation that sets Old Hobart apart.

The Distillery Tour

The Journey Begins

Your tour at Old Hobart Distillery begins with a warm welcome from our knowledgeable guides. They lead you through the charming facility, explaining the distillery’s history and the significance of its location. The tour starts with an overview of the distilling process, from grain selection to fermentation.

Behind the Scenes

Next, visitors get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process. You’ll witness the meticulous care taken in the mashing, fermentation, and distillation stages. The highlight is the copper pot stills, where the magic of spirit transformation occurs.

The Barrel Room

The tour culminates in the barrel room, a sacred space where the spirits age to perfection. Here, you’ll learn about the aging process, the types of barrels used, and how they influence the final flavor. The dim lighting and rows of barrels create an atmosphere of mystery and anticipation.

Tasting Experience

Guided Tasting Session

Following the tour, guests are invited to a guided tasting session. This is where you get to savor a selection of Old Hobart’s finest spirits. The guide explains each spirit’s unique profile, from the ingredients to the aging process.

Pairing Suggestions

During the tasting, the guide also offers pairing suggestions. They recommend food pairings that complement the distinct flavors of each spirit. This enhances the overall tasting experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Personal Recommendations

At the end of the session, the guide provides personal recommendations based on your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, you’ll find a spirit that resonates with your palate. This personalized touch makes the tasting experience truly memorable.

Additional Amenities

The Gift Shop

Before leaving, visitors can stop by the gift shop. Here, you’ll find an array of distillery-exclusive spirits, merchandise, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to take a piece of Old Hobart Distillery home with you.

Relaxing Lounge Area

For those wishing to linger, the distillery boasts a cozy lounge area. It’s a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the tour experience. You can enjoy additional tastings, engage in conversations with fellow visitors, or simply soak in the ambience.

Booking and Availability

Tours and tastings at Old Hobart Distillery are available by appointment. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Group bookings are also accommodated, making it an ideal destination for corporate events or special occasions.

Flask & Barrel Review of Old Hobart Distillery

I recently visited the Old Hobart Distillery, and I’ve got to say, it’s a solid 4.7 out of 5 in my book. As someone who’s been around the block a few times with distillery tours, I reckon I know a thing or two about what makes a distillery stand out. And Old Hobart? Well, it’s got its charm.

First off, the setting is just fantastic. Nestled in Hobart’s picturesque landscape, this place has an old-world feel that really sets the mood. As a whiskey collector, I was like a kid in a candy store, excited to see what this place had in store.

The tour kicked off with a super friendly guide. They knew their stuff, walking us through the distillery’s history and the nitty-gritty of their distilling process. From grain selection to fermentation, every detail was covered, but not in a way that made your eyes glaze over. It was informative but kept light and engaging – just how I like it.

Now, let’s talk about the behind-the-scenes action. Seeing those copper pot stills and getting the lowdown on the distillation process was a real treat. There’s something about seeing the care and attention that goes into making whiskey that just gets me every time. And Old Hobart didn’t disappoint.

The barrel room was another highlight. It’s one thing to hear about aging spirits, but it’s another to stand among rows of aging barrels. The guide did a fantastic job explaining how different barrels affect the whiskey’s flavor. For a collector like me, these details are golden.

Then came the best part – the tasting session. We got to try some of the finest spirits Old Hobart has to offer. Each one had its unique character, and the guide’s pairing suggestions were spot on. I’ve been on my fair share of tastings, but this one was particularly memorable. It felt personal, like the guide really got what each visitor was after in a whiskey.

The only reason I’m not giving it a full 5 is that, well, I’ve been around enough to know there’s always room for a little something extra. Maybe it’s the collector in me always searching for that perfect bottle.

The gift shop was a nice wrap-up to the visit. I even picked up a bottle that’s now a proud part of my collection. And chilling in the lounge area afterward was the perfect way to end the day. It gave me time to reflect on the experience and chat with some fellow whiskey enthusiasts.

So, if you’re thinking about visiting Old Hobart Distillery, I say go for it. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the world of whiskey, this place has something for everyone. It’s not just about tasting spirits; it’s about experiencing the passion and tradition behind them. And that, to me, is what a distillery tour should be all about.

What To Do Nearby Old Hobart Distillery

Salamanca Waterfront and Markets: A lively area known for its art galleries, theatres, cafes, and unique shops. On Saturdays, the Salamanca Markets are a must-visit for local crafts and foods. It’s a vibrant place for a leisurely stroll and to soak in the local culture​​.

Hobart Convict Penitentiary: Just a short distance from the Salamanca area, this site offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s convict history. You can explore its underground tunnels, chapel, cells, and even join a ghost tour for a more thrilling experience​​.

Cascades Female Factory: This historic site sheds light on the lives of female convicts and their children in Tasmania. With guided tours and dramatic representations, it’s a meaningful way to understand a significant part of Tasmania’s history​​.

Wellington Park Hiking: For nature lovers, Wellington Park offers stunning hiking trails and walks. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy Tasmania’s natural beauty and perhaps catch a sunrise or sunset from the mountain peaks​​.

Museum of Old and New Art (MONA): This unique museum is a blend of contemporary and classic art, known for its peculiar and intriguing exhibits. It’s a feast for the senses and a must-visit for art enthusiasts​​.

Cascade Brewery: As Australia’s oldest brewery, it offers insightful tours about its history and brewing processes. You can also relax in its beautiful gardens with a selection of beers and ciders​​​​.

Battery Point: This historic area features old sandstone buildings, quaint shops, and restaurants. It’s a picturesque place to explore and experience a significant part of Hobart’s heritage​​.

Derwent River Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise on the Derwent River to enjoy stunning views of the city from the water. It’s a perfect way to see Hobart from a different perspective​​.

Red Decker Bus Tour: A convenient way to see the city’s main attractions, the Red Decker bus offers a hop-on-hop-off experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace​​.

Bar and Restaurant Hopping: Hobart is known for its thriving restaurant and bar scene, featuring fresh, local produce. It’s a great way to end your day by sampling Tasmania’s culinary delights​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Old Hobart Distillery?

Bruni’s Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. The contact number is +61362671161, and the address is 77 Howden Rd, Howden TAS 7054, Australia.

The Beach House: This restaurant has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. The contact number for reservation is +61362297600, and the address is 14 Ocean Esplanade, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.

Jack Loves Red: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. The contact number is +61362292548 and the address is 16 Ocean Esplanade, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.

What hotels are near Old Hobart Distillery?

Villa Howden: This 5-star hotel has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. The contact number for reservation is +61362671161, and the address is 77 Howden Rd, Howden TAS 7054, Australia.

Hobart Hideaway Pods: It has a perfect rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps. The contact number for reservation is +61422066466, and the address is 161 Cades Dr, Kingston TAS 7050, Australia.

Cedar Cottages Blackmans Bay: This hotel has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. The contact number for reservation is +61362292532 and address is 245 Roslyn Ave, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.