Kempton: Craft Distillery Tour with Gin & Whisky Tasting

If you’re exploring Tasmania and have a taste for spirits, the Kempton Craft Distillery Tour offers a nicely balanced peek into local whisky and gin making, all set in an atmospheric historic building. This experience is perfect for those curious about Tasmanian craftsmanship or just wanting a comfortable, informative afternoon. With a concise 45-minute guided tour and a tasting of four spirits, it delivers good value and genuine flavors — a sweet spot for travelers seeking authentic, behind-the-scenes insight without a long commitment.

What really stands out is the chance to step inside Dysart House, a building loaded with character and stories, and to see the distillation process up close. The tasting session, featuring premium spirits made with 100% Tasmanian ingredients, is a highlight, especially given the opportunity to purchase bottles at a 10% discount. One potential consideration: the tour lasts just under an hour, so it’s a quick visit—perfect for a stopover, but perhaps not enough if you’re craving a deep dive into distillery history. Still, it suits visitors who appreciate a well-organized, informative taste of local spirits within a manageable timeframe.

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone interested in Tasmanian distilling traditions. It’s less suited for children and those looking for a lengthy, comprehensive experience but hits the mark for a relaxed, engaging introduction to the region’s craft.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Located in Dysart House, the distillery combines history and craftsmanship beautifully.
• Authentic Experience: Behind-the-scenes look at distilling and barrel aging adds depth.
• Tasting Variety: Sample 4 premium spirits, including whisky, gin, and liqueurs made with Tasmanian ingredients.
• Great Value: For $42, the tour offers a concise, engaging experience with a discount on bottles.
• Accessible and Convenient: Wheelchair accessible, with a flexible cancellation policy.
• Ideal for Short Visits: Perfect if you want a quick yet meaningful taste of Tasmania’s distilling scene.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kempton Distillery Tour

If you’re hunting for a genuine slice of Tasmanian spirit craftsmanship, the Kempton Craft Distillery Tour delivers a charming and memorable experience. Set in the historic Dysart House, which has been home to the distillery since November 2015, this visit offers more than just a tasting. It provides a glimpse into the buildings and processes that produce some of Tasmania’s most distinctive spirits.

The Setting: Dysart House and Old Kempton Distillery

The experience begins at Dysart House, an old sandstone structure that immediately sets a tone of tradition and craftsmanship. One visitor described it as “quite beautiful,” and the atmosphere certainly adds to the appeal. As you introduce yourself at the Cellar Door, you’re greeted by friendly staff eager to share the stories behind the house and the distillery’s operations.

The house and grounds aren’t just pretty—they’re historically significant, and the tour includes a brief overview of Dysart House’s history. This background enhances the experience, making your visit more meaningful than just tasting spirits. You’ll learn about the building’s past and how it became a focal point for Tasmanian spirit production.

Behind-the-Scenes Access: From Still to Barrel

The core of the tour is a 45-minute guided walk through the distillery. Here, you get to see the distillation process and explore the bond store, home to barrels of different shapes and sizes maturing whisky. The visual spectacle of barrels aging, some in the grand coaching inn setting, adds a rustic charm and a real sense of craftsmanship.

One reviewer noted, “John, our guide, told us the history of the house and took us around the distillery, explaining their processes.” This indicates a personal touch and a willingness to share detailed knowledge, which makes the experience especially valuable.

The Spirit Tasting: Four Premium Tasmanian Spirits

Following the behind-the-scenes tour, you’ll settle into the Cask Lounge—a cozy, historic space where the tasting unfolds. Here, you’ll sample four spirits selected from the distillery’s range, which includes single malt whisky, gin, and liqueurs. These spirits are crafted using 100% Tasmanian ingredients, emphasizing local quality and flavor.

The tasting is guided, so you really get an understanding of what makes each spirit unique. Feedback from visitors consistently highlights its quality and the friendly, knowledgeable guidance. One reviewer raved, “The tasting inside the beautiful old house was quite impressive,” emphasizing the ambiance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Offerings: Food and Shopping

While the tour and tasting are the main attractions, the onsite café enhances the experience. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, it offers local Tasmanian produce options like antipasto platters, Devonshire tea, and daily specials. These aren’t included in the tour price but provide a great way to relax and soak in the historic ambiance after your tasting.

On top of that, guests are encouraged to browse the Cellar Door, where they can purchase spirits, souvenirs, and bottles at a 10% discount on the day of their visit. This makes the experience not just educational but also an opportunity to bring home a piece of Tasmania’s distilling tradition.

Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and Accessibility

The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a good choice for those with limited time. The price, at $42 per person, offers a solid value—especially considering the quality of the spirits tasted and the inclusion of a discount for purchases.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for a more personal experience. You’re advised to arrive 10 minutes early and to bring some form of ID, like a driver’s license, for age verification. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety during the behind-the-scenes part of the tour.

Weather and Comfort

Since the tour runs rain or shine, dressing appropriately for the weather is wise. The venue supplies umbrellas if needed, ensuring you stay comfortable regardless of the weather outside.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous spirits, curious travelers, and those interested in the art of distilling. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate historic settings and want to learn about Tasmania’s craft spirits without committing to a lengthy tour. It’s not designed for children under 18, but adults will find the mix of history, craftsmanship, and tastings engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Kempton Craft Distillery Tour strikes a fine balance between authenticity, education, and enjoyment. It’s a well-organized, reasonably priced experience that offers a rare glimpse into Tasmania’s thriving distilling scene. The setting in Dysart House lends a historic charm, while the guided tasting showcases some of the best spirits Tasmania produces—made from local ingredients, aged in barrels, and full of character.

Travelers who enjoy a blend of history, craftsmanship, and good spirits will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Tasmanian itinerary. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer a short, immersive experience over lengthy visits, with enough flavor and story to make it memorable.

For anyone seeking a taste of Tasmania’s distilling heritage and some excellent spirits to take home, this is a compact, charming tour that delivers on quality and atmosphere.

FAQ

How long does the tour take?
The guided distillery tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, followed by time for tasting and shopping.

What’s included in the tour?
You get a guided walk through Old Kempton Distillery, Dysart House, and the bond store, plus a tasting of four premium spirits (such as whisky, gin, and liqueurs).

Is there a discount if I buy spirits?
Yes, visitors receive a 10% discount on the Cellar Door range on the day of the tour.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Can I stay for lunch afterward?
Absolutely. The onsite café is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM and offers local Tasmanian produce, afternoon teas, and daily specials.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license or ID for age verification and wear closed-toe shoes, especially for the behind-the-scenes walk.

To sum it up, the Kempton Craft Distillery Tour offers a charming, informative, and flavorful experience that captures Tasmania’s spirit-making artistry. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quick, authentic taste of local history and craftsmanship without a lengthy commitment. The stunning setting in Dysart House, combined with the guided insights and quality spirits, ensures that it’s a memorable stop for any connoisseur or curious explorer alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby