Perched gracefully on the serene coastline of Tasmania’s east, Spring Bay Distillery does more than craft whisky—it composes an ode to its surroundings, a lyrical symphony captured in amber. Born from the unwavering dream of Cam and Suzy Brett, long-time whisky devotees turned artisan distillers, Spring Bay Distillery began its journey in 2015. It is a celebration of passion intertwined with Tasmania’s breathtaking natural canvas, an embodiment of dedication and innovation distilled into every bottle.
From the salt-laden air that sweeps through the valleys to the pristine rainwater kissed by the sea mist, every element comes together in harmony. It’s a testament to the transformative power of vision, where the rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape is not just reflected but celebrated in every golden drop.
The Water That Whispers Tales
At Spring Bay Distillery, water isn’t just part of the recipe—it’s the beating heart of the whisky, the quiet maestro conducting a symphony of flavors.
Harvested from rain that dances through the salt-laden mists rolling off Tasmania’s east coast, this water carries the whispers of the nearby sea.
It’s as if the ocean lends a salty sonnet, infusing each drop with a gentle brininess that tempers the spirit into something extraordinary.
One cannot help but feel that in this case, it’s terroir in a tumbler, a rarity in the world of distillation. The coastal identity leaps out, conjuring images of windswept shores and sun-drenched waves—it’s a coastal creation that’s as much about place as it is about perfection.
The Alchemy of Craftsmanship
Spring Bay’s Bourbon Cask Single Malt is a drop that embodies the DNA of the distillery in that it is pure Tasmanian alchemy, a whisky that blends nature’s wild elegance with human artistry. At a robust yet approachable 46%, it greets the nose like the first notes of a sunlit morning symphony—vanilla waltzes with crème brûlée, accompanied by a delicate murmur of sea spray that hints at its coastal origins. It’s the kind of aroma that makes you pause, inhale deeply, and imagine yourself standing on a windswept Tasmanian shore.
The palate delivers a masterful medley, where fruity brightness dances with the earthy depth of oak, creating a balance as seamless as peach cobbler served on a piece of well-weathered driftwood. This melody of flavors is punctuated by a salty tang, a nod to the distillery's proximity to the ocean. Think of it as nature’s way of reminding you where this whisky was born—a place where sea and land entwine in an embrace of flavor.
And then comes the finish, refusing to simply fade away. Instead, it lingers like the tide’s reluctant retreat, leaving behind whispers of caramel, bursts of stone fruit, and an unexpected yet delightful hint of wakame. It’s a finale that warms and transports, much like a farewell sunset glowing over Tasmania’s pristine coastline.
Pairing this coastal marvel with salted, dark chocolate isn’t just indulgent; it’s a culinary voyage. The creamy textures intermingle in a harmonious dialogue, where the whisky’s sweet vanilla and savory oak notes meet the chocolate’s rich depth, elevated by a saline undertone. This isn’t just pairing; it’s a gastronomic duet, a playful conversation between land and sea that’s as enlightening as it is delicious.
Coastal Craft Redefined
In essence, Spring Bay Distillery takes the best of Tasmania—its water, climate, and spirit of innovation—and transforms it into whisky that doesn’t just speak of place but sings it. Cam and Suzy Brett’s vision was not merely to distill fine whisky but to bottle the very essence of their surroundings. Their meticulous attention to detail—from sourcing premium Tasmanian barley to hand-selecting casks—ensures that each expression is a masterclass in craftsmanship.
For those yet to discover the charm of Spring Bay, consider this your invitation to embark on a coastal journey. Whether you're drawn by its unique story or its unforgettable flavour, this whisky will leave you dreaming of misty mornings and sunlit shores.
After all, why settle for a drink when you can taste a place?
---
Words by AW.
Photos courtesy of Spring Bay.