Chapter 5 in our weekly series of highlighting Australian whisky takes us to a little hamlet in the windswept Northern Coast of Tasmania.
Fannys Bay Artisan Distillery is located at 15 Seascape Drive Tam O’Shanter-Lulworth, at the home of owners, Mathew & Julie Cooper who have brought whisky making to the northern region of Tasmania. Distilling commenced in 2014 with the first barrel put down in November of that year. Today, the distillery’s production is well under way with a selection of Bourbon, Port, Sherry, Shiraz and Pinot cask whiskies having already been released and sold out, with new generations of these cask types once again available.
The current premium selection of whiskies at Fannys Bay, have been maturing in wooden barrels made from French oak, to give them their unique taste. Their range of whiskies are described as smooth and mature with a full palate and a refreshing taste, testament to their northern coastal waters. The whisky is unfiltered as the good folks at Fannys Bay believe that the compounds (who others see as impurities) convey extra flavours, and provide an organic product. Tasmania has some of the purest sea breezes’ assisting them in creating the unique flavours that makes Fannys Bay whisky a real spirit of choice amongst their cult following off supporters.
Small Scale – Hand Crafted – Pure Tasmania
A closer look at one of our favourites in the Fannys Bay stable.
Fannys Bay Port Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky 500ml 63.4%
Matured in Barrel Number 54 that yielded 36 bottles!
500ml: 63.4%alc
Region: Lulworth, Tasmania
Bottled: 24.07.2019
Individually numbered
Our Tasting Notes
Nose: Quite big on the alcohol which is no surprise at 63.4% ABV. Stone fruits – peaches and cream with cinnamon/maple syrup drizzle.
Palate: Intense yet super fresh. More stone fruits on the palate with a nice mouthfeel, followed by brown sugar and hazelnuts.
Finish: A fresh and vibrant medium finish with the slightest hint of smoke.
Note: Adding a little water really opens up this whisky allowing it to display a sweeter fruitier bouquet.
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Cellar Door and Taste/Talk Sessions
Before the partial lockdown, the distillery was opened on Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday from 10.00 am – 5.00 pm. Having to close their cellar door and tastings for the immediate future has put a stop to a very important income stream that helps prop up their small batch distillery. So, if you’re looking for a great example of Australian whisky, jump on their website and grab yourself a bottle. (Also available on our virtual shelves).
Where to purchase
To view what Fannys Bay has available, you can visit their website HERE!
For an in-depth analysis of their various whiskies, you can visit our selection HERE!