Tasmanian whisky producer, Sullivans Cove, has unveiled its newly refurbished $14 million distillery in Hobart in celebration of the company's 30th anniversary.
In recent years, Sullivans Cove has amassed a global following, with product available only via online ballot, waitlist, or on-pour at a select number of venues. The company stated the distillery expansion, partially funded by the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resource, will enable Sullivans Cove to better meet demand into the future while maintaining quality.
It’s been a big year of celebration for Sullivans Cove. In May, the company released Australia’s oldest whisky, the Sullivans Cove 24-year-old single-cask, HH0004 – which was laid down during the distillery's fifth year of operation. Now, the new facility brings the company into a new stage of life.
The refurbished distillery and centre was designed by Yaron Kanor from Studio Y, and includes a visitor experience that can now welcome 100 seated guests for tastings and guided tours.
Sullivans Cove distillery manager, Heather Tillot, said the newly upgraded facility allows the company to lean into its unique production practices and work more efficiently, but not in a cold clinical way.
“There are aspects of the production process that we deliberately slow down. We want efficiencies in areas that don’t impact the character of the spirit. As always, it's the liquid that leads us,” said Tillot.
Central to the expansion is the introduction of new grain handling, fermenting, and distilling equipment, meticulously designed to allow further control over the brewing and distilling process.
Sullivans Cove has added two new stills – a wash still and a spirit still named Eva and Goldie – which now accompany Myrtle, the original copper pot still that has been instrumental in crafting their spirit for the last three decades.
Sullivans Cove managing director, Adam Sable, said: “The expanded distillery and new visitor experience elevate the space to the same exceptional standard as our liquid, offering guests a luxurious setting in which to enjoy our whisky while overlooking the working distillery where it all comes to life.”
