Kempton: Whisky Distillery Tour with Tastings and Lunch

Exploring Tasmania’s Old Kempton Distillery: A Whiskey Tour with Tasting and Lunch

If you’re curious about Tasmanian spirits and enjoy a good story along with your drink, the Kempton Whisky Distillery Tour offers a wonderfully balanced experience. Set in the historic Dysart House, this tour combines history, craftsmanship, and fine local produce into a compact 2-hour package designed for curious travelers and spirits enthusiasts alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the insider look into a working distillery — it’s not just a tasting but an opportunity to see how small-batch spirits are crafted using 100% Tasmanian ingredients. Second, the pairing of a guided spirits tasting with a hearty antipasto lunch that showcases the region’s best produce makes it feel like a true taste of Tasmania.

On the flip side, the main consideration is the price point of $134 per person. While it’s a comprehensive experience, those on a tighter budget might find a shorter or more casual tour appealing. Still, for anyone wanting an authentic, educational, and delicious snapshot of Tasmania’s distilling scene, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers interested in local craftsmanship, history buffs, or food and drink lovers seeking a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s ideal for small groups, those who appreciate a personal touch, and visitors who want to combine cultural insights with tasting moments.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: The tour begins at Dysart House, a site with stories and charm.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Visit the distillery, bond store, and see barrels of aging spirits.
• Tasting Experience: Sample four premium spirits, including whiskey, gin, and liqueurs.
• Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy an antipasto platter made from local Tasmanian produce, paired with wine.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Conclude your visit with tea or coffee in the elegant Cask Lounge.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Look Inside the Kempton Whisky Experience

The tour begins at Dysart House, a grand building that’s been home to the Old Kempton Distillery since 2015. As you arrive, you’ll notice the historic architecture and the grounds that hint at Tasmania’s colonial past. The experience kicks off with a guided walk through Dysart House itself, where your guide shares snippets about its history and tales of ghost stories that add a dash of intrigue.

From there, the focus shifts to the distillery. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the production process — a rare chance to see a small craft operation in action. Visiting the bond store, you’ll be surrounded by barrels of maturing whisky and spirits in various stages of aging. The presence of different barrel shapes and sizes illustrates how craftsmanship and tradition influence the final product.

The highlight for many is the guided tasting of four spirits. The guide’s knowledge and friendly manner make understanding the nuances easy, whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or a newcomer. Reviewers mention that the guides are “very knowledgeable and great fun,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

After the tasting, you’ll sit down for a locally sourced antipasto platter. It’s a feast of Tasmanian flavors—think fresh cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crisp vegetables—designed to complement your drinks. To make it even more special, a shared bottle of Tasmanian wine is included, giving you a full regional flavor profile.

The final part of the tour takes place in the Cask Lounge, a beautifully appointed room that invites relaxation. Here, you can sample additional spirits, sip your coffee or tea, and browse the Cellar Door for souvenirs or more bottles of the distillery’s offerings.

Analyzing the Value

At $134 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package. The inclusion of a guided distillery tour, four spirit tastings, a substantial lunch, wine, and post-tour browsing makes it quite a good deal for those wanting a full sensory experience. The intimate size (limited to 10 people) ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the personalized attention adds to the overall value.

The timing—about two hours—fits well into a day of exploring Tasmania. While transport isn’t included, the location in Kempton is accessible if you’re driving or arranging local transport. The tour is rain or shine, so it’s a dependable option regardless of weather.

What You Can Expect at Each Step

Dysart House: Expect a brief but engaging introduction to the house’s history, setting the scene for your distillation journey. The architecture and grounds themselves are worth noting for fans of colonial Tasmania.

Distillery and Bond Store: You’ll see barrels of varying sizes, learn about aging, and understand how Tasmanian ingredients influence the spirits’ character. The atmosphere is intimate, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

Spirit Tasting: The four spirits are carefully selected to showcase the distillery’s range. It’s not just about whisky—gin, liqueurs, and other spirits highlight diversifying craft techniques.

Lunch: The antipasto platter is generous, with fresh, local ingredients—a true taste of Tasmania’s culinary pride. The wine selection, focusing on Tasmanian varieties, complements the flavors beautifully.

Cask Lounge: The relaxed setting encourages lingering, whether you want to try more spirits, enjoy coffee, or browse for souvenirs.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer emphasizes that the guide was very knowledgeable and had a great personality, making the experience both educational and fun. Another highlights that “the Kempton whiskey crew are just really lovely,” which adds warmth to the tasting and learning process. The emphasis on local produce and regional wine resonates with travelers looking to enjoy Tasmania’s culinary culture.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who value authenticity over flash. It’s an ideal choice if you’re interested in small-scale, artisanal spirits, and want to learn about the process while sampling some of Tasmania’s best. If you enjoy historic settings, like strolling through old houses, and relish pairing good food with drinks, you’ll find this experience fulfilling.

It’s especially well-suited for small groups or couples who prefer a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Those on a budget may find it a tad pricey, but the quality, personal attention, and regional flavors justify the cost for many.

However, if you’re traveling with children or seeking a casual, quick visit, this might be more than you need. Transport is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside Kempton.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to Kempton is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to Dysart House.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Children under 18 can attend free of charge but cannot sample spirits. It’s mainly suited for adults.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially since parts of the tour involve walking through the distillery.

Can I buy spirits after the tour?
Yes, the Cellar Door offers a selection of the distillery’s products, and you receive 10% off purchases made on the day.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Is this experience suitable for a large group?
No, it’s limited to small groups of up to 10 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

What kinds of spirits are sampled?
You’ll taste four premium spirits, which might include whiskey, gin, and liqueurs, all made with Tasmanian ingredients.

What dietary restrictions are accommodated?
While not explicitly specified, the lunch is a standard antipasto platter—contact the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

In summary, the Kempton Whisky Distillery Tour offers a well-rounded encounter with Tasmania’s craft spirits against the backdrop of a historic estate. It’s ideal for visitors wanting to combine culture, education, and a hearty regional lunch in a cozy, small-group setting. Whether you’re a spirits aficionado or simply curious about the local flavors, this experience promises a friendly, authentic taste of Tasmania’s distilling spirit.

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