Little Lon Distilling Co. is releasing the first single malt whiskey to be distilled and aged legally in Melbourne’s CBD – Little Lon Whiskey – coming straight out of a cell in Old Melbourne Gaol.
The Little Lon Distilling Co. has a unique history, tucked away in a tiny heritage-listed cottage in the north-east corner of the city, in the heart of the former redlight district. It was once the site of a brothel, then a speakeasy, and in 2018 it became home to Melbourne’s only CBD distillery.
The distillery began producing gin six years ago, but always planned to move into dark spirits once it had the space to age the barrels.
During Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, Little Lon Distilling Co. was quietly distilling wash (the fermented liquid used for distillation, brewed by Bricklane Brewing), and filling casks to be locked away for the next two years.
The ageing process took place in the confines of Cell 13 of the Watch House at the Old Melbourne Gaol, maturing under optimal conditions, and absorbing the essence of its surroundings to develop a character unique to the city’s climate.
Little Lon founder and owner, Brad Wilson, said the launch of Little Lon Whiskey marks a milestone in Melbourne’s craft spirits scene, offering enthusiasts and whiskey connoisseurs alike a taste of something truly local and distinctive.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Melbourne’s first CBD-made and aged single malt whiskey. A distillery known for its gin, this is a first-time exploration into the world of dark spirits,” said Wilson.
“Crafted with care in a cottage that has shared many visitors with Old Melbourne Goal, there was a natural synergy – there would have been a well-worn path between the two places.”
Little Lon Whiskey’s aroma includes burnt honey, apples, and hints of coffee and fried banana. On the palate, there’s a strong oak profile, buttery barley texture, and notes of sultanas, chocolate, and rye bread, rounded out by warming spices.
The finish is long and complex, featuring dark chocolate, toasted oak, and a touch of black pepper, complemented by hazelnut and a lingering sweetness of dark brown sugar.
Only 500 bottles of this 500mL, 44% ABV release are available at littlelondistillingco.com, for RRP $135.
