Overeem brand logo with elegant typography and flourish

Overeem Whisky Distillery

Region
  • Australia, Tasmania
Awards
  • 2021 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards, The Australian Whisky Awards, World Whiskies Awards 2019:
Website
  • https://overeemwhisky.com/
Phone Number
  • +61418399077
Address
  • 4/30 Patriarch Dr, Huntingfield TAS 7055, Australia

Stacked wooden whiskey barrels in cellar

History of Overeem Whisky Distillery 

Foundation and Early Years

Overeem Whisky Distillery, a renowned name in the world of whisky, has its roots in Tasmania, Australia. It was founded by Casey Overeem, a figure notable for his passion for whisky and expertise in the craft. The distillery’s journey began in the early 2000s when Casey, inspired by the burgeoning Tasmanian whisky scene and his own Norwegian heritage, embarked on the venture.

He meticulously set up a boutique distillery within his own home’s garage, an unconventional yet charming start to what would become a respected brand.

Development and Expansion

As the distillery gained recognition, its operations expanded beyond the confines of Casey’s garage. The commitment to quality and craftsmanship remained a cornerstone of Overeem’s ethos. By procuring premium Tasmanian ingredients and employing traditional methods, they ensured the distinctiveness of their whisky.

The distillery’s growth was marked by an increasing number of aficionados who appreciated the unique characteristics of Overeem’s single malt.

Types of Whisky Offered

Overeem Whisky Distillery offers a range of whiskies, each with its own distinct flavour profile:

  • Port Cask Matured: Aged in French oak port casks, this whisky offers a rich and fruity flavour.
  • Sherry Cask Matured: Utilising sherry casks, this variant provides a complex, spicy, and somewhat sweet taste.
  • Bourbon Cask Matured: Aged in American oak bourbon casks, it features a smoother and slightly vanilla-infused profile.

Each type of whisky is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to creating diverse and high-quality spirits.

Innovations and Achievements

Throughout its history, Overeem has been lauded for its innovative approaches and contributions to the whisky industry. The distillery has been a forerunner in experimenting with cask sizes and aging processes, influencing the broader Tasmanian and Australian whisky landscapes. Their whiskies have garnered numerous awards and recognition, solidifying their status in the global whisky community.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Today, Overeem Whisky Distillery continues to thrive as a significant player in the whisky industry. The distillery maintains its dedication to producing premium single malt whiskies, with a focus on sustainable practices and continuous innovation. Looking forward, Overeem is poised to expand its global presence, while preserving the artisanal quality and character that have defined its journey thus far.

Awards Won by Overeem Whisky Distillery 

  1. 2021 Tasting Australia Spirit Awards:
    • Gold for Overeem Sherry Cask Matured 43% ABV.
    • Silver for Overeem Port Cask Matured 43% ABV and Overeem Sherry Cask Matured 60% (Cask Strength).
    • Bronze for Overeem Port Cask Matured 60% (Cask Strength).
    • The Sherry Cask Matured Single Malt Whisky at 43% ABV (Cask OD-374) was also recognized as the overall ‘Best Small Cask Maturation’ and ‘Best Small Batch Spirit’​​.
  2. The Australian Whisky Awards:
    • Overeem Distillery received Gold and Bronze for “Distillery of the Year”.
    • It won Gold and Silver respectively for “Best Whisky of the Year”, with Overeem’s 12 Year Old Bourbon Cask Whisky being particularly praised​​.
  3. World Whiskies Awards 2019:
    • Overeem Whisky was the category winner for the world’s best Single Cask, Single Malt Whisky, specifically for their Port Cask Matured 43%​​.
  4. Icons of Whisky Australia Awards:
    • Jane Overeem was awarded Distillery Manager of the Year​​.

Overeem Whisky Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Tour Schedule and Group Arrangements

  • Weekday Tours: The distillery conducts tours from Monday to Friday, between 4 pm and 6 pm.
  • Weekend Tours: For groups of six or more, special tours are available on Saturdays, from 1 pm to 3 pm.

Tour Experience and Offerings

Whisky Tasting and Snacks

  • During the tour, guests enjoy a two-hour journey through the distillery and barrel stores.
  • The experience includes tastings of various whiskies and light snacks.
  • Tour Cost: $75 per person.

Additional Options and Special Offers

Cellar Door Tastings and Private Events

  • For visitors with limited time, the cellar door offers tastings and shopping.
  • Private event bookings and tailored tastings are also available.

Exclusive Dining Discount

  • Tour attendees receive a 15% discount on lunch or dinner at Robbie Brown’s Restaurant or Bar.
  • Location: A short drive from the distillery in Kingston Beach.

Flask & Barrel Review of Overeem Whisky Distillery 

As a seasoned whisky collector who’s been on quite a few distillery tours, I have to say, my visit to Overeem Whisky Distillery was an experience that certainly stood out. Here’s my review:

I’d rate it a solid 4.7 out of 5.

First off, the setting of Overeem is nothing short of picturesque. Nestled in the beautiful Tasmanian landscape, it sets the stage for an immersive whisky experience. The moment I stepped in, there was this cosy, welcoming vibe that just felt right.

The tour itself was informative and engaging. You can tell these folks are passionate about what they do. They walked us through the distilling process with enough detail to be interesting, but not so much that you’d get lost in technical jargon. And the best part? Getting to see the small-scale operations. It’s not every day you get to witness such a hands-on approach to whisky making.

Now, let’s talk about the whiskies. Each tasting was an adventure in itself. The Port Cask Matured had this rich, fruity undertone that I absolutely loved. The Sherry Cask Matured was another standout, with its complex layers of flavours. And if you’re into something smoother, the Bourbon Cask Matured is a must-try. They’ve really nailed the balance between traditional and innovative flavours.

But why not a full 5 out of 5? Well, I guess I’m always on the lookout for something that completely redefines my whisky experience. While Overeem is outstanding, I’m reserving that perfect score for a distillery that brings something radically new to the table.

What To Do Nearby Overeem Whisky Distillery 

  1. Waubs Harbour Distillery: A unique distillery set in an old oyster shed in Bicheno, known for its maritime Tasmanian single malt whisky. The distillery is rich in history, paying homage to Wauba Debar, a celebrated Tasmanian Aboriginal woman. They offer daily distillery tours and guided tastings by appointment.
  2. Hobart and Surroundings: Approximately 15 minutes south of Hobart, you can explore Tasmania’s vibrant capital. Hobart offers a rich mix of heritage, scenery and culture, with attractions like the Salamanca Market, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), and Mount Wellington.
  3. Hellyers Road Distillery: This distillery in Havenview is notable for its range of premium single malts. With a fully licensed restaurant, tasting bar, and picturesque views of Emu Valley, it’s a great place to experience Tasmanian whisky.
  4. Sullivans Cove Distillery: Located in Cambridge, this distillery has garnered international recognition for its single malt whiskies. It’s known for creating the first Australian whisky to be hailed as “Liquid Gold” in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.
  5. Spring Bay Distillery: In Spring Beach, this distillery is known for using Tasmanian East Coast rainwater for its single malts, offering robust color and impeccable flavor. A visit here combines whisky appreciation with idyllic surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Overeem Whisky Distillery?

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

The Beach House: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. You can call them at +61362297600 and their address is 14 Ocean Esplanade, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.

Jack Loves Red: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. You can call them at +61362292548 and their address is 16 Ocean Esplanade, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.

What hotels are near Overeem Whisky Distillery?

Cedar Cottages Blackmans Bay: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +61362292532. Their address is 245 Roslyn Ave, Blackmans Bay TAS 7052, Australia.

Villa Howden: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +61362671161. Their address is 77 Howden Rd, Howden TAS 7054, Australia.

Hobart Hideaway Pods: It has a rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +61422066466. Their address is 161 Cades Dr, Kingston TAS 7050, Australia.