Tin Shed Distilling Co.
History of Tin Shed Distilling Co.
Tin Shed Distilling Co. has carved a niche for itself in the Australian craft spirits scene. Their journey began with a passion for quality and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients.
A Dream Takes Root (Early 2000s)
The story starts in the early 2000s, not as Tin Shed Distilling Co., but under the name Southern Coast Distillers. This joint venture, formed by three husband-and-wife couples, aimed to create high-quality whisky in South Australia. While their passion was evident, a business disagreement led to a split in 2013.
Rising from the Ashes: The Birth of Tin Shed Distilling Co. (2013)
Undeterred by the setback, two of the couples persevered. In 2013, they regrouped, formed Tin Shed Distilling Co., and reignited their distilling passion in the same building used by Southern Coast Distillers. The name “Tin Shed” is a nod to the humble beginnings and the hands-on approach they take in crafting their spirits.
A Hands-On Approach to Quality (2013-Present)
Tin Shed Distilling Co. emphasizes a hands-on approach to the distilling process. From milling the malt and stirring the mash to selecting casks and bottling, they are involved in every step. This meticulous attention to detail ensures the quality of their spirits.
A World of Flavor: Tin Shed’s Spirit Offerings
The distillery’s core focus lies in crafting exceptional whiskies. Their flagship whisky, Iniquity, is a multi-award-winning single malt known for its complex flavor profile. Iniquity comes in various expressions, each offering a unique taste experience. Beyond whisky, Tin Shed Distilling Co. also produces other spirits, including:
- Requiem Rum: This rum is crafted using molasses and boasts a smooth, rich flavor.
- Piotr Vodka: This vodka is known for its clean and crisp taste, perfect for cocktails or enjoying neat.
Beyond the Bottle: A Distillery Experience
Tin Shed Distilling Co. is currently planning to expand their operations to include a cellar door distillery in the Adelaide Hills. This new location aims to offer visitors a unique experience. Guests can expect tours, tastings, and educational events, allowing them to delve deeper into the world of craft spirits.
Tin Shed Distilling Co. has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Their dedication to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal following and a reputation for excellence. With their award-winning spirits and planned expansion, Tin Shed Distilling Co. is poised to continue its success story for years to come.
Awards Won by Tin Shed Distilling
Iniquity Whisky:
- Gold Batch No. 003, 004, and 005: These batches received gold medals at the World Whisky Awards in 2018 and 2020, as well as at the Australian International Spirits Competition (AUISC) in 2020.
- Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2024: Iniquity Gold Batch No. 007 was awarded Liquid Gold, indicating it as a “Superstar Whisky” with a high score.
- World Whiskies Awards 2024: Iniquity Talamara won Gold and Best in Category for ‘Single Malt 12 Years & Under’.
Requiem Rum:
- SS Ferret: This rum was the style winner at the World Rum Awards 2021, won gold at Tasting Australia Best Australian Rum 2020, silver at the Australian International Spirits Awards in 2019, and bronze at the 2021 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (ADSA).
Piotr Vodka:
- This vodka won silver medals at the International Spirits Awards Sydney 2019 and Tasting Australia 2020.
Tin Shed Distilling Tour Information and Experience
Tin Shed Distilling Co. offers an engaging and immersive tour experience, allowing visitors to delve into the heart of their distillation process and taste their award-winning spirits. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, the distillery is renowned for its hands-on approach to crafting Iniquity Whisky, Requiem Rum, and Piotr Vodka.
Tour Highlights:
- Guided Distillery Tours:
- Visitors get a comprehensive look at the distillery’s operations, including the milling of malt, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation processes. Every step is meticulously performed by hand to ensure the highest quality.
- The tour provides an opportunity to see the traditional methods and equipment used in creating their spirits, such as locally sourced grain and peat, and the use of Mallee stumps for smoking whisky.
- Tasting Sessions:
- A key highlight of the tour is the tasting session, where guests can sample a range of Tin Shed’s spirits. This includes their celebrated Iniquity Whisky, Requiem Rum, and Piotr Vodka.
- Expert guides share detailed tasting notes and stories behind each spirit, enhancing the tasting experience.
- Special Events and Membership:
- Tin Shed Distilling Co. hosts various events throughout the year, including exclusive tastings and masterclasses. Joining “The Den” membership program provides advance access to new releases, special discounts, and invitations to member-only events.
- Members of The Den also receive special offers on limited releases and insights into the distillation process directly from the distillers.
Flask & Barrel Review of Tin Shed Distilling Co.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit distilleries worldwide, and Tin Shed Distilling Co. in Adelaide, South Australia, stands out as a memorable experience. Here’s my take on this gem of a place. Overall Experience: 4.7 / 5
When I first arrived at Tin Shed Distilling Co., I was immediately struck by the genuine passion and dedication of the team. This small, hands-on operation has a big heart, and it shows in every detail of their process and their spirits.
Tour and Tasting
The tour itself was thorough and intimate, providing a fascinating look into the traditional methods they use. We started with a walkthrough of the entire distillation process, from milling the malt to bottling the final product. The guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories and insights that made the experience engaging.
What truly blew me away was the tasting session. We sampled their Iniquity Whisky, Requiem Rum, and Piotr Vodka. Each spirit had its own unique character and depth. The Iniquity Whisky, in particular, was a standout. The complexity of flavors, from the smokiness to the subtle sweetness, was simply exquisite.
The Spirits
Iniquity Whisky: This is a must-try for any whisky aficionado. The balance of peat and malt creates a rich, smoky flavor that lingers beautifully. It’s no wonder it has won multiple awards.
Requiem Rum: A delightful surprise. It has a refined taste that’s both smooth and robust, perfect for sipping.
Piotr Vodka: Clean and crisp, it’s a great palate cleanser and stands well on its own or in a cocktail.
The atmosphere at Tin Shed is laid-back and welcoming. The staff are incredibly friendly and eager to share their love for their craft. They made sure everyone felt comfortable and included, whether you were a seasoned whisky drinker or a novice.
What To Do Nearby Tin Shed Distilling Co.
Explore McLaren Vale Wineries (0.6 miles to 10 miles): McLaren Vale is renowned for its world-class wineries. Spend an afternoon indulging in wine tastings at some of the region’s acclaimed wineries, like d’Arenberg Winery (1.9 miles) known for its quirky architecture, or explore hidden gems on a self-guided tour.
McLaren Vale Produce Trail (Up to 15 miles): Embark on a delicious journey along the McLaren Vale Produce Trail. Visit farms, cheesemakers, breweries, and chocolatiers, sampling the region’s fresh produce and artisan goods. This trail offers a chance to support local businesses and discover unique flavors.
Glencoe Beach (8.2 miles): Relax and soak up the sun at Glencoe Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers pristine sand, clear waters, and stunning views. Enjoy a refreshing swim, go for a walk along the beach, or try your hand at surfing or stand-up paddleboarding.
Onkaparinga River National Park (11 miles): Hike or bike through the scenic Onkaparinga River National Park. This park boasts a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Explore the natural beauty of the area, spot native wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views from the park’s lookouts.
Willunga Farmers Market (8.7 miles): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Willunga Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning. This market is a treasure trove of fresh local produce, gourmet foods, handcrafted goods, and regional wines. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and sample the best of South Australian produce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Tin Shed Distilling Co.?
Shobosho: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 17 Leigh St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +61 8 8366 2224.
Africola: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 4 East Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia. For reservations, you can contact them at +61 8 8223 3885.
Golden Boy: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 309 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia. For reservations, you can call +61 8 8227 0799.
What hotels are near Tin Shed Distilling Co.?
Mayfair Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 45 King William St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +61 8 8210 8888.
Oval Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is King William Rd, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia. For reservations, you can contact them at +61 8 8368 9900.
The Playford Adelaide – MGallery: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 120 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia. For reservations, you can call +61 8 8213 8888.