Exploring the Old Kempton Distillery Tour and Guided Tasting: A Friendly Guide
If you’re curious about how Tasmania’s award-winning spirits are made, this distillery tour at Old Kempton might just be worth a look. It’s a well-reviewed experience that offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind Tasmanian whisky, gin, and liqueurs, all served up with a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just looking for a unique local experience, this tour strikes a good balance between education and enjoyment.
What really appeals are the stories behind Dysart House, built in 1842, and the fact that you get to see where the magic happens—most of the production takes place right in the historic building. Plus, with four spirits included in your tasting, it’s a chance to sample some of the region’s best from a small, family-run distillery. The price point is also quite reasonable—just $32 for around an hour and a half of engaging insights and tastings.
On the flip side, do keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. It’s also a relatively short tour, so if you’re after a deep dive into distilling techniques or a lengthy experience, this might feel a bit light. Still, if you’re after a friendly, straightforward introduction to Tasmanian spirits in a picturesque setting, this tour fits the bill nicely.
Overall, it seems best suited for those wanting a relaxed, educational taste of Tasmania’s craft spirits, especially if you appreciate a good guide and a historic setting. It’s also perfect for anyone passing through Kempton or looking for a quick, memorable experience with a local flavor.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: A guided tour inside Dysart House, a historic building from 1842, offers a charming backdrop for learning about spirits.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers rave about the tour guides, highlighting their ability to make the process understandable and interesting.
- Tasting Value: Four spirits samples included give you a real taste of what Old Kempton produces—everything from whisky to gin—made from Tasmanian ingredients.
- Great Price Point: At $32, it offers a lot of value considering the hour-and-a-half duration and the quality of information and samples.
- Limited Transportation: The tour doesn’t include transport, so plan your arrival accordingly.
- Small Group Setting: With a maximum of 20 travelers, it’s intimate enough for questions and personalized interaction.
A Closer Look at the Experience
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The Setting: Dysart House and Old Kempton Distillery
The tour begins at Dysart House, a charming historic building that’s been standing since 1842. It’s fascinating to think about the stories this place could tell—once a coaching inn, now home to the distillery that’s been operating since 2015. The fact that the distillery uses the old coaching stables adds a rustic, authentic feel that makes you appreciate the craftsmanship even more.
Walking through Dysart House, you’ll quickly see the blend of history and modern spirit-making. The guides do a good job of weaving local history into the tour, making it more than just a production line walkthrough. This adds a layer of storytelling that makes the experience richer.
The Guided Tour: What You’ll Learn
The core of this experience is the guided walk through the distillery, where you learn about the process of distilling spirits from start to finish. The guides are praised for their knowledge—one reviewer specifically mentioned John providing an “excellent and informative tour.” You’ll get insight into how the spirits are made, what makes Tasmanian ingredients special, and the nuances in distilling whisky, gin, and liqueurs.
This isn’t a lengthy, technical lecture, but enough to satisfy those curious about the craft. The focus is on making the process accessible and interesting, with plenty of opportunities for questions. For many, this balances education and entertainment perfectly.
Tasting the Spirits: A Highlight
After the tour, you move to a tasting session where four different Old Kempton spirits are sampled. The spirits are all crafted from Tasmanian ingredients, which is a point of pride for the distillery—and it shows in the quality. The reviews emphasize the value here; you’re getting a variety of spirits in a single session, allowing you to compare and appreciate the different flavors.
The tasting isn’t rushed, and it’s a great chance to get a sense of what makes these spirits unique. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just a casual sipper, you’ll find something to enjoy.
The Cost and Value
At $32, this tour offers good value. You’re paying for the guided experience, the historic setting, and four samples of quality spirits. Considering the reviews, many visitors feel it’s money well spent, especially given the friendly guides and interesting stories.
However, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included—so plan your own way there, or consider combining this with other local activities. If you’re in Kempton or passing through, it’s a compact, affordable way to add some local flavor to your day.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
This distillery tour is ideal if you enjoy learning about local products in a relaxed setting. It’s particularly suited for those interested in spirits, history buffs, or travelers looking for a quick but meaningful experience. If you appreciate small-group tours with friendly guides and a chance to taste authentic, handcrafted spirits, you’ll find this a worthwhile stop.
It’s not a deep dive into distillation techniques, so if you’re after a technical or lengthy experience, this might feel a bit light. Also, those looking for an inclusive experience that covers transportation or longer sessions should plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Tasmania and want a taste of local craftsmanship merged with a bit of history, this Old Kempton Distillery tour hits the spot. The guides’ evident enthusiasm and knowledge, combined with the historic setting of Dysart House, make it more than just a tasting—it’s a small adventure into Tasmania’s spirit-making culture. The four samples included make it good value for the price, and the intimate size of the group ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd.
While it’s a relatively short outing, it’s perfect for those who want a genuine, relaxed insight into Tasmania’s distilling traditions. Whether you’re a spirits lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious, this tour offers a friendly, informative way to spend an afternoon.
Distillery Tour and Guided Tasting
“John provided an excellent and informative tour of the distillery and the process for making their hand crafted whisky, gin and other liqueurs. I w…”
FAQ
Is transportation included with the tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to make your own way to Dysart House at the start point, so plan accordingly.
How long does the tour last?
The guided tour and tasting take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for a relaxed afternoon.
What spirits are sampled during the tasting?
You’ll taste four Old Kempton spirits, including options like whisky, gin, and liqueurs, all crafted from Tasmanian ingredients.
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is designed for adult guests interested in spirits. Children are allowed with service animals, but the experience is tailored for adults.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly and personal experience.
How do I book the tour?
You can book online through Viator, or contact Old Kempton Distillery directly at +61362593082 or via email at [email protected].
If you’re looking for a taste of Tasmania’s spirits in a historic setting with friendly guidance and good value, this distillery tour offers a genuine snapshot of local craftsmanship. It’s relaxed, informative, and just the right length for a memorable afternoon.